The Power of Oxymels: A Fusion of Tradition and Modern Wellness
In the tapestry of herbal traditions, there's a timeless elixir that has woven its way through centuries — the Oxymel. Known in Ancient Greece as "oxymeli," meaning "acid and honey," this herbal extraction combines the potency of vinegar and honey to draw out the flavours and nutrients from plants. In the era when nearly all medicines originated from plants, oxymels played a crucial role, making bitter and unpleasant remedies more palatable.
The resurgence of the term "oxymel" is capturing attention, and at Morgans Apothecary, we're embracing this revival with our own immune boosting creation. But what exactly constitutes an oxymel, and why should it become a part of your wellness routine?
Unveiling the Essence of Oxymels
An oxymel is a traditional elixir crafted from vinegar, often apple cider vinegar, and raw honey, complemented by a selection of herbs. Oxymels were once tucked away in the realms of herbalists and herbal enthusiast's but experienced a resurgence in the 1980s with Rosemary Gladstar's Fire Cider Recipe, featuring Echinacea, Turmeric, and other fiery ingredients. Today, oxymels are finally basking in the spotlight they deserve, even earning recognition in publications like Bon Appétit.
A Toast to Health and Tradition
The foundation of oxymels lies in the individual strengths of apple cider vinegar and raw honey, both revered for their immune-supporting qualities over millennia. When herbs join this dynamic duo, the elixir transforms into a highly customizable and supportive concoction. The possibilities for herbal combinations are limitless, catering to a range of health concerns and individual needs.
Beyond their therapeutic benefits, oxymels are a delight to the taste buds and remarkably versatile. Whether sipped on its own or incorporated into recipes, they add a flavourful and healthful dimension to daily life.
How to Make a Healthy Oxymel
Oxymels are very simple to make and can be a wonderful addition to your natural medicine cabinet! Here is a simple recipe for an immune boosting oxymel:- 1/2 cup raw apple cider vinegar (we will have some of our own to sell soon!)
- 1/2 cup raw local honey
- Any combination of immune boosting herbs such as ginger, turmeric, sage, thyme, oregano and garlic (you may want to use other wellness herbs that you like but don't find on this list).
- 500ml glass canning jar with lid.
Fill the jar ¼ of the way with dried herbs. Top it off with the honey and apple cider vinegar. Screw on the top (if using a metal lid, place a piece of parchment paper in between the lid and the vinegar mixture), shake, and then let it sit on your kitchen counter for 4 weeks. Strain the herbs out and store in a lidded glass jar away from heat and light. To use, take 2 teaspoons at a time up to 3 times a day.
Try it along with our Breathe Herbal Tea — you can also turn it into a salad dressing by adding olive oil and spices!
