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Herbal remedies have been cherished for centuries, and one of the most fascinating and beneficial preparations is the oxymel. With roots stretching back to ancient Greece, this herbal elixir combines the potent properties of vinegar and honey with various herbs to create a powerful tonic. Hippocrates, the father of medicine, even mentioned oxymels in his writings from 400 B.C.E., noting their efficacy in promoting respiratory health.
What is an Oxymel?
The term "oxymel" comes from the Greek word oxymeli, meaning "acid and honey." An oxymel is essentially an herbal extraction using vinegar and honey, typically raw apple cider vinegar and local, raw honey. This combination not only harnesses the individual benefits of each ingredient but also helps to extract and deliver the medicinal properties of the herbs infused within.
The Benefits of Oxymels
Apple cider vinegar and honey have long been celebrated for their health benefits. Organic apple cider vinegar, especially when raw and unfiltered, is rich in acetic acid and contains the "mother" which is a collection of beneficial enzymes, proteins, and bacteria. Honey, particularly raw local honey, is renowned for its soothing and antibacterial properties. Together, they form a potent base that can be enhanced with various herbs for additional health benefits.
Making an Oxymel
Creating an oxymel is a straightforward process that offers a lot of flexibility. Traditional recipes often use a higher proportion of honey to vinegar, but modern variations tend to balance the two more evenly.
Here’s a basic method:
Ingredients:
Organic dried herbs of choice
1 part organic, raw apple cider vinegar
1 part raw, local honey
Method:
Fill a jar 1/4 full with your chosen herbs.
Cover with equal parts apple cider vinegar and honey.
Stir to incorporate, then seal with a plastic lid or parchment paper under a metal lid.
Shake well and store in a cool, dark place for about two weeks, shaking occasionally.
Strain out the herbs and store the oxymel in a glass bottle.
Nettle Oxymel for Hay Fever Relief
Nettle is an incredible herb, rich in vitamins, minerals, and anti-inflammatory compounds. It is particularly effective for hay fever due to its natural antihistamine properties.
Ingredients:
Dried or fresh nettle (fill the jar 1/4 full with dried nettle or 1/2 full with fresh nettle)
Raw apple cider vinegar (fill the jar halfway)
Raw, local honey (fill the jar the rest of the way)
Directions:
Place nettle in a jar, filling it according to the type of nettle used.
Pour in apple cider vinegar to fill the jar halfway.
Add raw honey to fill the remaining space in the jar.
Stir well and cover with a lid, using wax paper as a barrier if using a metal lid.
Let the mixture sit for two weeks, flipping and shaking the jar every few days.
Strain the liquid through a fine mesh strainer and muslin cloth, then bottle and store.
This nettle oxymel can be a valuable ally during allergy season, helping to reduce irritation and support overall wellness. It’s also beneficial for women during their menstrual cycle due to its high iron content and energy-boosting properties.
The Power of Local Honey
Using local raw honey in your oxymel is particularly beneficial for hay fever sufferers. Local honey contains small amounts of the same pollen that triggers allergic reactions, potentially helping to build immunity to local allergens. Moreover, honey adds a soothing sweetness to the oxymel, making it more palatable.
When it comes to dosage for herbal oxymels, it's essential to start with a small amount and gradually increase as needed. A typical dosage is about 1 to 2 teaspoons taken once or twice daily.
Conclusion
Oxymels are a time-honored herbal remedy that combines the health-boosting properties of vinegar and honey with the therapeutic benefits of various herbs. Whether you’re looking to soothe a sore throat, boost your immune system, or alleviate hay fever, there’s an oxymel recipe to suit your needs. Embrace this ancient tradition and enjoy the natural, flavorful support it offers for your health and well-being.
Happy creating!
Remember, children under one year should not consume honey products
Jackie
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