Oxymel

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Oxymel: a simple honey-and-vinegar remedy

What it is
Oxymel is a traditional medicine made by mixing honey with vinegar. The name comes from Latin oxymel, which itself comes from Ancient Greek for “acid” (oxys) and “honey” (meli).

Traditional recipe
Ancient texts describe oxymel as two parts honey to one part vinegar (for example, ten measures honey with five measures vinegar). The mixture is allowed to age so flavors blend.

Historical uses
Oxymel was used as a general remedy in ancient and later pharmacopoeias. Cato the Elder and other Roman authors discussed it, and it was sometimes linked to related drinks like hydromel (wine with honey) or omphalic oil. It was prescribed for various ailments, including eye inflammation (ophthalmia).

Modern use
Modern studies have explored oxymel’s effects on conditions such as obesity, but research is limited and results are not conclusive. More robust studies are needed to determine any real medical benefits.

See also
Sekanjabin, Switchel

A note on safety
Some historic medical recipes included other ingredients that are dangerous by today’s standards (such as lead compounds). Do not attempt old, multi-ingredient formulations.