Oxymels:

A Sweet and Tangy Herbal Tradition

When it comes to herbal preparations, few things are as deliciously sweet and tangy as an oxymel. If you’ve never tried one, you're in for a treat. This traditional remedy is not only a flavor-packed experience but also a fantastic way to get the benefits of herbs. Let's explore what oxymels are, how they differ from fire cider, and how you can easily craft your own at home.

What is an Oxymel?

An oxymel is a herbal preparation that blends two powerful ingredients: honey and vinegar. The word itself comes from Greek, meaning "acid and honey." It’s been used for centuries to extract the beneficial properties of herbs, and it’s a particularly good choice when working with plants that are bitter or spicy, as the honey helps balance out the taste.

Oxymels vs. Fire Cider: What’s the Difference?

While both oxymels and fire cider share vinegar as a base, fire cider has a fiery, spicy punch. Fire cider recipes often include potent ingredients like garlic, horseradish, onions, and cayenne peppers. Oxymels, on the other hand, tend to be more versatile and mellow. They are often focused on balancing sweet and sour, which makes them perfect for more delicate herbs and fruits like elderberry, rosemary, and thyme. You can enjoy oxymels as a daily tonic, drizzle them over salads, or mix them into sparkling water for a refreshing herbal drink.

Two Delicious Oxymel Recipes

Here are two simple oxymel recipes you can try at home. Feel free to get creative and swap out herbs or fruits to make the blend your own!

Elderberry & Thyme Oxymel: Elderberries are known for their supportive role in overall health, while thyme adds an earthy note that can help you feel clear-headed and refreshed.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup fresh or dried elderberries

• 2 tablespoons dried thyme

• 1 cup raw honey

• 1 cup apple cider vinegar (raw preferred)

Instructions:

• Place elderberries and thyme in a clean jar

• Add the vinegar and honey, stirring well to combine

• Cover with a lid and shake (separate lid from jar with some waxed paper)

• Let the mixture sit for 2-4 weeks, shaking it daily

• Strain out the herbs and berries, and bottle the liquid

Benefits: Elderberries are packed with natural compounds that help support your immune system. Thyme offers a refreshing aroma and flavor, and is often used to promote clear breathing.

Rosemary and Lemon Oxymel:

This refreshing blend combines zesty lemon and aromatic rosemary to create an uplifting tonic.

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup fresh rosemary sprigs

• Zest of 1 lemon

• 1 cup raw honey

• 1 cup apple cider vinegar (raw preferred)

Instructions:

• Add rosemary and lemon zest to a jar

• Pour in honey and vinegar, stirring well to mix

• Seal the jar (use wax paper between lid and jar because of the acid)

• Let the mixture steep for 2 weeks, shaking every few days

• Strain out the herbs, bottle the liquid and store in a cool place

Benefits: Rosemary is invigorating, known to help you feel more alert, while lemon zest provides a bright, citrusy flavor that can lift your spirits.

Make It Your Own

One of the great things about oxymels is how easy it is to experiment with flavors and ingredients. Here are a few ideas to inspire your own creations:

• For a floral twist, try using lavender or rose petals in place of the herbs.

• Boost the spice level by adding a bit of ginger or cayenne pepper for a warming oxymel.

• Citrus lovers can play with lime or orange zest, swapping out the lemon.

• Berry fans might enjoy experimenting with blueberries or raspberries to give their oxymel a fruity kick.
  

Ingredients That Pack a Punch:

• Raw Honey: Besides being sweet and soothing, honey naturally helps to preserve the oxymel and smooth out the sharpness of the vinegar.

• Apple Cider Vinegar: Known for its tangy flavor, ACV is great for balancing out the sweetness of honey and can also help aid digestion.

• Herbs: Whether calming, invigorating, or aromatic, herbs offer a wide variety of flavors. For example, lemon balm has a soothing citrusy scent, while oregano brings a bold, savory taste to your blend.

• Fruits: Berries and citrus fruits provide a bright, refreshing flavor. Berries bring a touch of sweetness, while citrus adds a zesty punch.

I hope this inspires you to get creative in the kitchen and experiment with your own oxymel blends! Whether you’re sipping it as a tonic, drizzling it on a salad, or sharing it with loved ones, oxymels are a wonderful way to integrate the power of herbs into your daily routine. Oxymels have a shelf-life of six months to a year.

If you are on any medications, please remember to consult with a healthcare professional before incorporating new herbs into your routine. Also, refrain from giving children under two an oxymel because their delicate systems cannot handle the honey.

Try the recipes above and let me know the outcome. We would love to hear about your favorite combinations of herbs and fruits. Please comment below.

Yours in herbal wellness,

Gloria

Disclaimer:

The Food & Drug Administration has not evaluated the statements made on this website. The information provided by this website or this company is for informational purposes only, it is not meant to substitute for medical advice or diagnosis provided by your physician or other medical professionals, and is not a substitute for a face-to-face consultation with a health care provider, and should not be construed as individual medical advice. Always consult your physician or health care provider before using any herbal products.