Dandelion Root Oxymel Recipe (2024)

Dandelion can do all sorts of dandy things. This winter has seemed to hang on for dear life, despite the fact that we are now officially in spring. Particularly long winters can leave us all feeling a bit heavy.Whether it’s heavy eyes, sluggish movement, or heavy feelings, now is the time to wring it all out. A simple herb to start with is dandelion,Taraxacum officianale.

Visually they may draw up memories of childhood: playing in the lawn, or making fairy crowns in the park, or creating bouquets.

As the ground begins to thaw, dandelion stretches its brown roots long into the soil. After this foundation is set, dandelion finally reaches up milky stems that bloom bright golden flowers after a long winter’s rest.The first glimpse of dandelion’s bright yellow flower is a sight for sore eyes after an endless winter.

Dandelion Root Oxymel Recipe (1)

Dandelion offers many uses, from the flowers, to the leaves, and right down to the root. The flowers and leaves can be used in salads or for making wines and honey. The roots and leaves can, depending on need, be decocted or infused for a tea. You may find that many health stores or restaurants also offer a dandelion beverage that consists of the roots that are roasted as an alternative to coffee. It is even noted that dandelion has been brewed into a beer that is said to be less intoxicating than regular beer (Grieve, 1931).

With all of dandelion’s uses, it is always important to start with a look at the actions of the herb.

Dandelion Root Oxymel Recipe (2)

Dandelion’s Health Benefits

Digestive Bitter: Aids in the secretion of digestive juices, and stimulates the parasympathetic nervous system, putting the body into a relaxed stated which is helpful with digestion. Learn more about bitters.

Alterative: Improvesbody’s health and functionby increasing elimination of metabolic waste from skin, liver, kidneys, lymph, and bowels.

Diuretic (Leaf):Promotes production of urine as well as water excretion.

Cholagogue: Stimulates the gallbladder, aiding in the production of bile.

Hepatic:Supports the liver.

Anti-lithic: Prevent the formation of calculi or gravel (stones) in the urinary system

With all these actions, the question that may come to mind is why? Most of those answers start with the bitter nature of dandelion. When a bitter taste is detected in the mouth, what then happens is lots of flow: bile flows from the liver and gallbladder, and hydrochloric acid flows freely from the stomach. Along with its richness of vitamins A and C, dandelion also contains choline, which stimulates the liver. Liver stimulation is important because it processes impurities in our bodies. These days, the liver has many reasons to be overrun. Especially after a long winter, digestion can be sluggish and in need of some cleansing. (Brett, 2007)

Dandelion Root Oxymel Recipe (3)

Dandelion Safety

Despite all of dandelion’s many uses, it is important to be aware that too much of a good thing is not always best. As with everything in life, try to approach the use of herbs with awareness and a sense of balance.People sensitive to plants in the Asteraceae family may also be sensitive to dandelion, although this is rare. Fortunately, dandelion leaf contains abundant levels of potassium to offset any loss of this mineral due to diuresis. There have been very rare instances of skin irritations from handling latex in the stems and leaves.

Because dandelion has been found to accumulate soil contaminants,be sure you harvest it well away from roads, industrial sites, buildings, roofing drip lines, or anyplace where chemicals or pesticides are sprayed. You can also purchase your dandelion from Mountain Rose Herbs here.

Dandelion Root Oxymel Recipe (4)

Dandelion Root Oxymel Recipe

Oxymels are syrups made by infusing herbs with vinegar and adding honey. In Ayurveda, springtimeis Kaphic in nature, so not only can digestion and energy level be sluggish but you may find excess mucus is present as well. Our detox-oxymel recipe showcasing dandelion will also be beneficial in restoring digestion and energy to get you feeling dandy for spring.

Dandelion Root Oxymel Recipe

Ingredients

1 cup of apple cider vinegar
½ cup of honey
3 heaping tablespoons of dandelion root

Directions

  • Measure out the dandelion root to fill a ½ pint Mason jar 1/3 of the way.
  • On a stove, bring the apple cider vinegar and root to a simmer.
  • Simmer for 10-20 minutes.
  • Remove from heat and strain out the roots.
  • While the decoction is warm, add the honey.
  • Cover the jar and shake.
  • You can store your oxymel in a cool dark place, and take one to two tablespoons daily.

Learn more about dandelion and other herbs in our Online Intermediate Herbal Course.

This article is written by Lena Yakubowski, yoga teacher and communications assistant at the Herbal Academy of New England. Photos by Lena.

REFERENCES

Grieve, M. (1931) A Modern Herbal. New York: Harcourt, Brace & Company

Brett, N.D., Jennifer (31 January 2007). “Dandelion: Herbal Remedies” Retrieved from http://health.howstuffworks.com/wellness/natural-medicine…

Foster, Steven and Duke, James A. (2000) Eastern/Central Medicinal Plants and Herbs (2nd ed.). New York: Houghton-Mifflin

Dandelion Root Oxymel Recipe (2024)

FAQs

Dandelion Root Oxymel Recipe? ›

It aids the body as a digestif, take a bit before each meal to stimulate the digestive process. It can be used as a gargle for a sore throat and taken with warm water to soothe a dry throat. Mixed with water and molasses, Oxymel offers excellent hydration after workouts or during long days of physical work.

What do you do with oxymel? ›

It aids the body as a digestif, take a bit before each meal to stimulate the digestive process. It can be used as a gargle for a sore throat and taken with warm water to soothe a dry throat. Mixed with water and molasses, Oxymel offers excellent hydration after workouts or during long days of physical work.

How do you make oxymel for anxiety? ›

Adding equal parts raw ACV and honey, fill the jar to the top. Keep it in a cool, dark, dry place. Be sure to turn the jar upside about 3 times every time you can remember to. Brew your medicine for a full moon cycle (a.k.a four weeks) then strain using a cheesecloth and funnel into a dropper bottle.

How often should I take oxymel? ›

Oxymel Simplix - the basic recipe

First, put the vinegar in a sterilized storage jar. Then add the honey and mix the two together well. The Oxymel is ready! It is best to enjoy daily about 1 tablespoon of Oxymel diluted with 100 ml of water.

Do you have to refrigerate oxymel? ›

In a clean jar with a tight fitting lid, oxymel can last up to 6 months in your cupboard, or up to 1 year if stored in the refrigerator. But once you get into the habit of a drinking a daily tonic of oxymel, it will never last that long and you will need to make a fresh batch every month or two.

Is oxymel safe? ›

Conclusion. Based on our findings, oxymel appears to be a valuable functional food for healthy individuals and a potentially effective and safe treatment option for managing certain diseases such as asthma, obesity, and type 2 diabetes.

Does oxymel taste good? ›

It's sweet and sour to the extremes, with a savory herbal flavor slithering through. Oxymel tastes like a honeyed vinegar or a vinegared honey depending on how you make it.

What is the strongest herb for anxiety? ›

Kava (Piper methysticum)

The root of a plant native to the South Pacific, kava is perhaps the best-researched herb for anxiety relief. Randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled studies show that kava significantly reduces anxiety.

What is the difference between tincture and oxymel? ›

Tinctures are concentrated liquids crafted by extracting active compounds from herbs using alcohol. On the other hand, oxymels use a combination of honey and vinegar, creating a more palatable and versatile elixir. The sweet and sour profile makes oxymel a delightful addition to your herbal medicine cabinet.

What is the difference between elixir and oxymel? ›

While an oxymel is indeed an herbal elixir, not all elixirs are oxymels—for instance, sipping vinegars like fruity shrubs and gingery switchels are delicious herbal elixirs, but they're not necessarily sweetened with honey, which is a requirement for oxymels.

What is ginger oxymel good for? ›

It is has amazing anti-inflammatory properties, supports healthy digestion and helps to protect and rejuvenate the liver. Ginger is also an anti-inflammatory and may provide relief from pain and swelling caused by rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis.

What is the meaning of oxymel? ›

Oxymels are traditional medicines made of vinegar (most often apple cider vinegar) and raw honey, with herbs usually added as well. The name oxymel is derived from the ancient Greek word, oxymeli, meaning acid and honey.

What are the benefits of apple cider vinegar, garlic, and honey? ›

Reduce Blood Pressure,Anti Block,Reduces Cholesterols, Anti Bacterial Properties,Reduces Sugar Level, Treats Skin Infection, Reduce Weight, Treats Respiratory problems and many many more..

What are the benefits of oxymel? ›

The most commonly reported actions of oxymel include positive effects on the cardiovascular system, as well as antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

Is oxymel fermented? ›

Sekanjabin, also known as Oxymel, is an ancient beverage including honey, fermented vinegar, water, and various fruits and herbs.

How to make cranberry oxymel? ›

How to Make an Oxymel. Fill a small jar about half to three-fourths full of fruit (in this case cranberries) or 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, try 1/2 jar honey and 1/2 jar vinegar.

What is elderberry oxymel used for? ›

Elderberry extract helps cell walls rebound cold and flu viruses and boosts innate immune function, hence its wide use during cold and flu season. Learn more about Elderberries in our extended ingredient spotlight HERE! Organic elderberry is the primary ingredient in our Elderberry Oxymel Raw Honey Tonic.

What is Sage oxymel used for? ›

Oxymel may boost cognitive function, enhance memory and mood, reduce hot flashes, support the digestive system, and improve skin tone. It is best known for soothing a sore throat. Can be enjoyed in tea or sparkling water! Simply swallow a spoonful when you need a boost, or stir into tea for a warm, healing tonic.

References

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