Long before we knew the medicinal benefits of alcohol, medicinal vinegar (Vinegar Extracts). Since ancient times vinegar was an excellent way to preserve and dispense herbs. There are many advantages to using vodka, gin, or brandy, like greater potency and longer shelf life, however, those of you who wish to avoid alcohol for personal or cost factors, making vinegar extracts are ideal.
Vinegar extracts (known as aceta) are weaker than alcohol-based tinctures, so the dose required is higher. While vinegar won’t draw out as many of the beneficial components of an herb that alcohol will, it does excel at drawing minerals and vitamins from a plant. Those extra nutrients added to the benefits of apple cider vinegar, and you have a great option for herbal remedies.
The standard formula for medicinal vinegars is 1 part dry herb to 7 parts vinegar. When using herbal remedies, you don’t have to be that precise. Try adding and mixing a pinch of this and a pinch of that. you don’t have to worry about messing up. Remember to cover tightly, shake and store your extracts in a dark place for two to three weeks and shake daily, mark your calendar as a reminder.
Use a plastic top on your jar, if using metal lids be sure to layer plastic wrap or wax paper between the jar and the metal lid. If you don’t the vinegar will eat away at the metal and ruin your whole batch. Dry herbs make a stronger extract than fresh and have a longer shelf life of about six months. If using fresh herbs be sure to store them in the refrigerator.
If you have a problem with the taste of straight vinegar, mix in an equal part of honey. You should also drink some water after taking a dose and swish it around your mouth a little. Vinegar staying against the teeth for a long is detrimental to them. To avoid all that place the vinegar into a plain cup of water, juice, or ginger ale. Two to three teaspoons at a time, up to five times daily is the usual dose.
Please take note, if you are taking any medications, have low blood potassium, or are unsure, please check with your pharmacist or physician first.
What are oxymels? They are sweet and sour herbal syrups. They contain vinegar, honey, and herb(s). They are very beneficial for respiratory conditions.
For the cold method for making an oxymel, fill a small jar about three-fourths full of herbs. Pour honey over them, then vinegar. Use about 1/3 of the jar filled with honey to 2/3 of the rest vinegar or for a sweeter syrup use 1/2 jar honey and 1/2 jar vinegar. Stir it all together, it may not blend well at first, but that’s okay. Just stir or shake every day for two weeks. Then strain out the herbs bottle it up and store in a cool dry place or the refrigerator.
For the hot method of making an oxymel (faster) simmer the herbs and vinegar together for ten to twenty minutes. Strain out and stir in honey while the vinegar is still warm. Take oxymels by the spoonful as needed for sore throats, thick congested coughs, or as a general treatment to combat cold and respiratory symptoms. The shelf life is 9 months to one year.
Sample Recipe: Rosemary-Sage Oxymel
- a handful of rosemary sprigs
- a handful of sage leaves
- 1/3 of the jar filled with honey
- topped off with apple cider vinegar
This one is good for upper respiratory infections. (Not intended for pregnant or nursing women).
Consider the following herbs to consider when creating medicinal vinegars or oxymels (just a few).
- Rosemary: Useful for low energy and poor circulation, good for digestion and nerves.
- Sage: antifungal, antibacterial, antiviral. Do not take for an extended period of time.
- Thyme: for upper respiratory infections, coughs, bronchitis, antiviral and antibacterial.
- Oregano: antibacterial, antiviral, useful for upper respiratory infections.
- Bee Balm (Monardo): sore throat, antibacterial, fever, thick congested coughs.
- Mint: stomach soothing, digestive aid
- Rose Petals: astringent, anti-inflammatory
- Elder Flowers: spec ific for sore throats, immune stimulating.
- Raspberry Leaves: General tonic for women.
- Lemon Peel: can be added for flavor.
Cold and flu season is upon us, try these alternative treatments to address the conditions above. The important thing is to use quality herbs. You can try growing your own or a quality place to order them is Mountain Rose Herbs.
Until next time,
Peace, Love, and Blessings💖
