4. Bee Balm Oxymel
When the seasons start to change, viruses and bacteria begin to do the rounds through neighborhoods across the United States. If you always seem to catch the flu, then making a bee balm Oxymel before you get sick could help you recover from the effects of the infection faster.
The anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties of bee balm make it the ideal base for an Oxymel tonic. Oxymels are formulas containing a blend of vinegar, herbs, and honey that may traditional medicine practitioners use as a tonic for soothing the symptoms of congestion, a sore throat and coughing associated with influenza.
Prepare your Oxymel using the same method for the tincture, but use apple cider vinegar instead of the oil, and add Manuka honey for the final ingredient. Let it cure in the cupboard for 3-months and then heat it on the stove until it turns runny. Strain through cheesecloth and store in a mason jar.