Oxymel (a respiratory tonic) Recipe
Made with just 3 ingredients this Sage Oxymel is an easy home remedy for throat and lung healing. Full of antimicrobial and antioxidant properties. Perfect to make when sage is in abundance and great to have on hand to heal and sooth sore throats, coughs and colds.

How to Make the Best Oxymel (a respiratory tonic)
Oxymel is a traditional herbal remedy that combines the medicinal properties of herbs with the preserving and healing power of vinegar and honey. This simple three-ingredient sage oxymel is particularly effective for respiratory support, soothing sore throats, and helping ease the symptoms of coughs and colds. The combination of antimicrobial sage with antioxidant-rich raw honey and nutrient-dense apple cider vinegar creates a potent wellness tonic that’s been used in herbalism for centuries.
The beauty of making oxymel at home is its remarkable simplicity and minimal ingredient list. Unlike more complex herbal preparations, this sage oxymel requires just a few steps and minimal active time—mostly waiting while the herbs infuse. The slow infusion process allows the sage’s beneficial compounds to extract fully into both the honey and vinegar, creating a deeply nourishing remedy that you can keep on hand year-round.
Once your oxymel is ready, take a tablespoon daily for ongoing respiratory support, use it to soothe a sore throat, or add it to warm water or tea during cold season. Many people also find it helpful to keep a bottle on hand during times of stress or when they first notice symptoms of a cold coming on. This homemade remedy is far more economical and potent than store-bought alternatives, and knowing exactly what goes into your medicine is invaluable for your health and peace of mind.

Oxymel (a respiratory tonic)
Made with just 3 ingredients this Sage Oxymel is an easy home remedy for throat and lung healing. Full of antimicrobial and antioxidant properties. Perfect to make when sage is in abundance and great to have on hand to heal and sooth sore throats, coughs and colds.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
Instructions
Preparation
- Combine the sage and honey together in a clean sterilized pint jar.
- As you pour in the vinegar, stir with a chop stick to release air bubbles. Make sure the sage is completely submerged with the liquid. You want at least 1/4 inch of space at the top of the jar.
- Clean the rim and seal with a lid. If you are using metal lid (vinegar corrodes metal) place a piece of plastic wrap or parchment paper between the jar and the lid.
Infusion
- Store the jar in a cool dry place for at least 2 weeks, shake it daily, and make sure the sage stays submerged.
Finishing
- Strain the mixture through a fine mesh strainer and pour into a bottle with a cork or sealed lid.