Prepare the pumpkin by peeling and chopping it into small chunks if using fresh pumpkin. Measure out all spices and herbs to have them ready.
Add water to a medium saucepan and bring it to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
Add the pumpkin chunks to the simmering water, stirring gently as they begin to soften and release some color and aroma.
Toss in the cinnamon sticks, whole cloves, star anise, and pine needles, spreading them evenly around the pumpkin. Let them infuse the water as it continues to simmer gently.
Sprinkle in a pinch of ground nutmeg and add a splash of vanilla extract. Continue to simmer for about 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the aroma to intensify.
Keep an eye on the water level, adding a little more water if needed to prevent it from boiling away or scorching. The mixture should stay gentle and bubbling.
Once the pumpkin is tender and the mixture is fragrant, turn off the heat. You can gently lift out the large spices for a clearer aroma or leave them for a richer scent.
Carefully ladle the hot, fragrant liquid into a bowl or leave it in the saucepan for continuous simmering, ready to fill your home with cozy seasonal scents.
Keep the mixture at a gentle simmer on low heat, adding more water as needed to maintain the scent and volume.
Enjoy the warm, spicy aroma filling your home, creating a cozy autumnal atmosphere that lasts for hours.
