Olymel Tonic Recipe For Optimal Health đ
The use of Oxymel as a health tonic has a long tradition, dating back more than 2000 years. The famous Greek physician Hippocrates of Kos is said to have used it in the treatment of his patients.
At this time of year, when fresh herbs and flowers are abundant, try making some oxymel. Combined with soda water, it makes a tasty and refreshing tonic. Plus, it offers some great health benefits.
It's so easy to make and so nutritious that you will want to keep a jar on hand for everyday use.
Oxymel is an herbal and/or floral extraction using vinegar and honey as the liquid needed to draw out the flavors and nutrients from the plants.
In Ancient Greece, it was called "oxymeli" which translates as "acid and honey." In ancient times, nearly all medicines came from plants -- typically in the form of either fresh or dried leaves and flowers. Dried and crushed bark and roots were also part of an herbalist's medicine box. Some of these items were bitter and pretty nasty tasting, but when combined with honey and vinegar, they were much more palatable and it was easier to make the medicine go down.
I don't recommend consuming the fermented oxymel by dropper, as the vinegar is extremely corrosive to your teeths enamel.
The basic recipe calls for some vinegar (raw apple cider vinegar is best), some raw honey and a handful or two of some fresh herbs and/or flowers. The extraction method is "cold infusion" meaning that the mixture is left to brew at room temperature. Heat is avoided as it can degrade some of the phytonutrients in the raw ingredients.
To make oxymel, just mix everything together in a clean class jar and then allow the herbs or flowers to steep in a dark cupboard for several weeks. Shake the jar a couple times every day or two. After 4 to 6 weeks, strain out the solids, pour into a clean glass jar and it's ready for use.
Oxymel can last up to 6 months in your cupboard, or up to 1 year if stored in the refrigerator.
The benefits of oxymel are three-fold. First, you have the health and wellness benefits of raw, unfiltered honey. Raw honey contains important enzymes, vitamins, minerals and phytonutrients. These compounds have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and antibacterial properties. Next, raw apple cider vinegar is packed with vitamins and minerals that fortify your immune system. Then, we add a third layer of wellness benefits from the additional phytonutrients that steep from the herbs and flowers used to make the oxymel. Some common herbs and flowers, along with their wellness benefits, are listed below.
As an added benefit, a glass of oxymel seltzer can help to curb your appetite. A couple glasses each day of this tasty brew can help to bolster your diet plan. Try one glass mid-morning and a second one mid-afternoon.
There are many different herbs and flowers that you can use for making oxymel. Here are a few common examples of herbal oxymels that can be found in many gardens.
Basil. Full of antioxidants and helps to reduce inflammation.
Bee Balm. Helps to treat sore throat, cough and fever.
Chamomile. Promotes more restful sleep.
Elderberry. Promotes a stronger immune system.
Lemon Balm. A mild sedative with a calming effect; helps to reduce stress and anxiety.
Mint. Helps to calm an upset stomach; aids with digestion.
Rosemary. Increases energy and improves circulation. (Slices of fresh ginger are also good for better energy and circulation.)
Sage. Anti-fungal, anti-viral and anti-bacterial
Simple Recipe
1) In a clean jar, with tight fitting lid, stuff with a handful or two of your favourite raw herb/s. Make sure they've been thoroughly rinsed and are completely dry, so as not to introduce water to your mixture. Water will spoil your Oxymel.
2) Introduce equal parts of Raw honey and Raw apple cider vinegar to your jar. Use a spoon to push down your herbs, and leave a 1/4" space. Apply cap
3) Label your jar with ingredients and place in a dark, cool place for 6 weeks, making sure to give the jar a shake every day or two.
4) After 6 weeks, strain out the herbs and if you have one, toss them in your compost.
That's it! You've made oxymel đ
Take a teaspoon of oxymel for every 4oz of liquid, up to twice a day. Your Oxymel, mixed with soda water or plain water is best, although it can be added to raw smoothies and iced tea, as examples.
Thank you bees đ
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