"What is an oxymel?!"
This is THE most popular question that I get asked in my shop. Every time I hear these words, I relish in the opportunity to share about yet another magical preparation of herbal goodness.
An oxymel - from the Latin wordoxymeli meaning "acid" (oxy) and "meli" (honey) - is an herbal-infused liquid medicine with a vinegar and honey base. I take herbs (usually dried) and let them sit in apple cider vinegar for up to a month to draw out their medicinal properties. Then, I add honey to make the vinegar infusion more palatable.
Oxymels are potent medicine and can be used in a healing protocol (especially for children), but I like to use them as a daily herbal boost to my food and beverages because oxymels are so tasty. I’m a strong believer in using herbs daily to keep your immune system strong and to aid in your body’s natural detoxification processes. So, let’s talk about how to incorporate oxymels into your routine to amplify your health . . .
If you are not a big water drinker, adding a flavorful and slightly sweet oxymel to still or sparkling water is a great way to improve your hydration. Add 5-30 drops to water, tea, or a beverage of choice. Our Ruby Fire Botanical Tonic will be sure to add a kick to your Sunday morning Bloody Mary!
One of my favorite culinary uses for oxymels is to make salad dressings. And Spring is the perfect time to be consuming fresh greens and supporting your liver in detoxing after a long winter of heavier foods.
Oxymel Salad Dressing Recipe (makes a 1/2 cup of dressing):
1/4 cup oxymel
1 tsp dijon mustard
1/4 cup good oil -- like avocado, olive, or hemp oil
Salt & pepper to taste
Combine all ingredients with a whisk, or shake in a closed jar until it emulsifies.
Try our Ruby Fire Botanical Tonic to speed up metabolism, clear out sinuses, and kick your immune system into high gear.
Get your daily dose of herbal goodness with ourPeppercorn Turmeric Botanical Tonic to calm inflammation and promote weight loss.
Well, that's a quick overview of oxymels, one of my favorite tools to help you achieve plant-powered wellness. If you find good ways to incorporate oxymels into your culinary repertoire, please share and tag us #wildrootsapothecary so we can pass on your herbal wisdom!
