Elderberry Hibiscus Oxmel Goodness
It’s that time of year again, leaves are falling, temperatures dropping, and I’m hearing people sneezing and coughing. Late this summer I started putting up some tinctures and making Fire Cider to be ready for the cold and flu season. I wanted to have something in my home apothecary that could be taken daily when I don’t want to take a tincture made with Alcohol. In comes the traditional herbal remedy of the Oxymel.
This natural concoction combines the goodness of elderberries and hibiscus flowers with the tanginess of raw apple cider vinegar and raw honey creating a potent elixir packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals.
The recipe I chose to make had dehydrated Elderberries and Hibiscus. The ratio I used was:
1/3 of a quart jar packed with the dried herbs
1/3 of Jar filled with Raw Organic Apple Cider Vinegar
1/3 of the jar was topped off with Raw Organic Honey
(I started with a very clean Mason jar and made sure my hands were clean.)
After making sure all the berries and flowers were submerged I put the lid on and dated the preparation. I put it on a shelf in a cool dark place and set a reminder on my phone to gently shake it each day. This has become something I enjoy as my collection of brewing things grows.
Today was the day I decanted it and double strained it into a very cool repurposed Kombucha bottle. It has a new label now and is ready for use. I won’t lie. It is quite tart, but has a sweetness that takes that Apple Cider Vinegar edge off. I plan on taking a small shot each day to help boost my immune system for the coming winter. l keep it in a cool place and it will be good for at least 6 months if I don’t use it all before then.
The following are some of the benefits of an Oxymel using Elderberries and Hibiscus:
Immune-Boosting Properties: Elderberries are renowned for their immune-boosting properties. They are rich in antioxidants, including anthocyanins, which help strengthen the immune system and protect against harmful free radicals. Hibiscus flowers also contain vitamin C, which further enhances the immune response. Consuming Elderberry Hibiscus Oxymel regularly can help support a healthy immune system and reduce the risk of infections.
Cold and Flu Relief: Elderberry Hibiscus Oxymel has long been used as a natural remedy for colds and flu symptoms. The combination of elderberries and hibiscus flowers helps alleviate congestion, soothe sore throats, and reduce fever. The antiviral properties of elderberries can also help shorten the duration of cold and flu symptoms, making it an excellent addition to your winter wellness routine.
Heart Health Support: Both elderberries and hibiscus flowers have been associated with cardiovascular health benefits. Elderberries contain flavonoids that help promote healthy blood circulation and reduce inflammation in blood vessels. Hibiscus flowers are known to lower blood pressure levels due to their diuretic properties. Incorporating Elderberry Hibiscus Oxymel into your diet may contribute to maintaining a healthy heart and reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
Digestive Aid: Apple cider vinegar, a key ingredient in Elderberry Hibiscus Oxymel, has been used for centuries as a digestive aid. It helps stimulate the production of digestive enzymes, promoting better digestion and nutrient absorption. Additionally, the combination of elderberries and hibiscus flowers can help soothe gastrointestinal discomfort and reduce bloating. Regular consumption of this oxymel may support a healthy digestive system.
Antioxidant Powerhouse: Elderberries and hibiscus flowers are both rich sources of antioxidants, which play a crucial role in protecting the body against oxidative stress and cellular damage. Antioxidants help neutralize free radicals, which are unstable molecules that can cause inflammation and contribute to various chronic diseases. By incorporating Elderberry Hibiscus Oxymel into your daily routine, you can provide your body with a powerful dose of antioxidants to support overall health and well-being
I’m happy to have made this natural Oxymel. From boosting the immune system to supporting heart health and aiding digestion, this herbal remedy is a valuable addition to the home apothecary. Are you ready to try one yourself?
Note: As with all herbal teas, if you are taking any medication, have any medical conditions, are pregnant or nursing, PLEASE consult your health care professional before drinking. This post is not meant to diagnose or treat any disease.
Do your research, there are many good reliable sources to verify and cross reference. A few of my favorite are:
National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health
(nccih.nih.gov)Herbal Academy
https://theherbalacademy.com/Healthline
(healthline.com)