Oxymels: Sweet, Sour, and Seriously Handy

Hello herb nerds!

Let’s talk about one of the lesser-known — but seriously awesome — herbal preparations: the oxymel. It’s a lot like making a tincture, except instead of alcohol, you use apple cider vinegar and honey.

The vinegar isn’t just there for flavor — it’s great at pulling out minerals, nutrients, and medicinal compounds from your herbs. The honey smooths the tang, adds natural preservation, and brings its own soothing, immune-supporting magic. The result? A shelf-stable, nutrient-packed remedy that’s perfect for anyone avoiding alcohol but still wanting the full herbal punch.

What You’ll Need

• A clean glass jar (pint or quart size)

• Non-reactive lid (plastic works best) or parchment paper if using a metal lid (vinegar and metal don’t play nice)

• Raw apple cider vinegar (“with the mother”)

• Raw honey

• Your chosen herb (fresh or dried — stinging nettle is a classic choice)

• Cheesecloth or fine mesh strainer

• A clean bottle or jar for storage + a label

How to Make an Oxymel

1. Fill Your Jar

   Add your herb — about halfway full if fresh, one-third if dried.

2. Add Vinegar & Honey

   Use roughly equal parts vinegar and honey. Pour vinegar first, then honey, and make sure herbs are fully covered.

3. Seal with Care

   If you’ve got a metal lid, add that parchment paper barrier before screwing it on — vinegar will corrode metal over time.

4. Steep & Shake

   Store in a cool, dark place for 2–4 weeks. Give it a good shake every couple of days.

5. Strain & Store

   Strain through cheesecloth, bottle, label, and store in a cupboard or fridge.

   
   

How to Use

• Take a spoonful as a daily tonic

• Stir into water or tea

• Drizzle into salad dressings or marinades

A Little History & Fun Fact

The word oxymel comes from the Greek oxymeli, meaning “acid and honey.” Ancient healers used it for everything from sore throats to stamina support — and it’s still here today, proving that some remedies just… work.

Sweet, sour, and powered by plants — oxymels are proof that simple methods can give you big results. Plus, you get the satisfaction of making something both old-fashioned and timeless.

Until next time Healers! Tata for now.