Oxymel: The Return of an Ancient Elixir
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Oxymel, which translates from ancient Greek as “sour honey” (ὀξυˊς — sour, μεˊλι — honey), is one of the oldest medicinal remedies known to humankind. Oxymel is more than just a drink. It's a true elixir that has come to us through the centuries, known since the time of Pythagoras and Hippocrates. This simple syrup of honey and vinegar was one of the most important remedies for at least 2,500 years, used by medical giants like Galen, and its recipes can be found in old books on monastic medicine. What's most interesting is that recent scientific studies have even confirmed the historical use of oxymel for treating wounds and infections.
The Simplicity and Versatility of Its Healing Power
The essence of oxymel lies in its wonderful simplicity: a combination of just honey and vinegar. This mixture, known as Oxymel simplex, is a potent therapeutic agent in its own right. It is considered safe, has no side effects, and can be used to boost the health of both adults and children. Throughout history, oxymel has been used to treat a wide variety of ailments, from respiratory problems like coughs, bronchitis, and asthma to digestive issues including gastritis and diarrhea, as well as fevers, skin wounds, and even psychosomatic disorders like depression, anxiety, and insomnia.
Oxymel is also an excellent solvent and preservative for herbs, making it an ideal base for non-alcoholic phyto-extracts. Thanks to its isotonic properties, it helps athletes, aids in rehydration after vomiting or fever, and can be used to help detoxify the body.
The Most Important Secret: Ingredient Quality
The therapeutic power of oxymel depends on the quality of its components, and there is no room for compromise here. For medicinal purposes, only organic vinegar produced through the natural fermentation of natural ingredients like apples, grapes, or honey is suitable. Synthetic vinegar, made from petroleum, has no healing properties. Similarly, the honey must be high-quality, preferably local, organic, and minimally processed. Only a combination of these natural ingredients can create a truly healing remedy.
Recipes for All Times
Oxymel can be prepared using a variety of recipes, from the simplest to the most complex.
The Hippocrates Recipe (Basic Oxymel): The simplest and most fundamental recipe, passed down from ancient physicians, involves mixing honey with apple or grape vinegar in a 1:1 ratio. The mixture should be stored in the refrigerator for up to six months, consumed as needed.
The 1584 Recipe: This old pharmacy recipe from Germany involves first purifying 120 g of honey by boiling it with 60 g of water, and then adding 60 g of vinegar and boiling it again. This remedy was known for its ability to soften mucus in the bronchi.
Dr. Jarvis’s Daily Ritual: For daily prevention, American doctor DeForest Clinton Jarvis recommended mixing 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar and 1-2 teaspoons of honey with a glass of water and drinking it half an hour before breakfast.
Herbal Oxymel: To prepare a complex oxymel that helps with coughs and sore throats, you can use sage, onion, garlic, ginger, vinegar, and honey. For personalized flavors and purposes, you can also first infuse the vinegar with berries, pine needles, or fruits, and then mix it with honey in a 1:2 ratio.
An Important Note: Before using oxymel to treat any medical conditions, always consult a doctor.
This ancient wisdom is available to you today. Learn to create live vinegar, which is the foundation for oxymel, and other healing beverages.
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