The recipes below can use “cold” and “hot”preparation methods. You’ll note that we have included the benefits and drawbacks of each method when it comes to making your own herbal honeys. Keep in mind, and research beforehand the herbs you choose to infuse with the honey. The sweet bee nectar is only a carrier for what the herb is known to do, and with the right blend you can have it to great effect or have a sweetened version of the herb.

Equipment Needed

  • Quart-sized jar with a lid (for each combo you want to do)
  • Parchment paper or wax paper (If using a metal lid, not needed if using a plastic lid)

Ingredients to Put Together

  • Cold Method – Dried herb(s) that fill a little less than half of the jar.
  • Hot Method – At least 1/2 cup of the herb(s) you want to use if they are fresh, if they are dried you can use 1 to 2 cups.
  • Raw, local, organic honey: Cold-enough to cover fully the herb(s) in the jar; Hot-2 cups of the stuff.

Cold Mixing Instructions

Here’s the basic process:

  1. Fill a clean jar a little less than halfway with the dried herb(s).
  2. Pour in the honey. Be sure that your herbs are fully submerged.
  3. Put a lid on the jar and place in a sunny windowsill. Keeping it room temp will allow the herbs to infuse better and also makes the liquid more viscus.
  4. Turn the jar contents over at least once per day.
  5. You will want to allow this mixture to infuse for 1 to 4 weeks. The longer you leave it, the stronger the flavor will be.
  6. When the honey has infused to your taste, strain out the herbs with a fine metal mesh or cheesecloth.
  7. Store your herb-infused honey in a cool, dark place in a tightly sealed jar to help maintain optimal freshness for as long as possible (approx 9-12mos).

Hot Mixing Instructions

Here’s the basic process for fresh or dried herbs:

  1. Transfer herbs to cold saucepan – 1/2 cup if fresh or the 2 if dried.
  2. Pour your honey into saucepan over herbs and turn on stove heat to medium, at east 2 cups worth.
  3. Stir to fold herbs into honey. This process will become easier as honey heats up. Heat slowly so that herbs don’t scorch and honey does not boil over!
  4. Stir frequently until honey just begins to bubble. Remove from heat and let cool.
  5. Repeat steps 3 and 4 several times, either throughout the day or over multiple days (covering between sessions to keep out the interested bugs).
  6. When the honey has infused to your taste, strain out the herbs.
  7. Store your herb-infused honey in a cool, dark place to help maintain optimal freshness.
  8. Can last up to 12 months in the container.

Additional Tips on Both Methods

  • Cold Method – You will need to keep checking the jar to make sure all the contents are completely submerged for the full effect to happen.
  • Hot Method – Use anything that can slowly heat the contents without burning, or scorching – microwave not a good idea.
  • Cold Method – Using a non-stick kitchen utensil to help keep the herbs covered would be advisable.
  • Hot Method – The leftovers from the infusion (contents of the herbs) can be used again in a hot tea infusion or iced beverage.
  • Cold Method – Same goes for the leftovers from the Cold way save either one of the remnants in the fridge.
  • Can create blends of the herbs that you need most in your daily or weekly diet to gain the optimal results from its use.
  • Can last to up to a year, maybe longer – keep checking periodically for freshness.
  • Store in a cool dark place, keep the jar sealed tight when not in use.
  • Remember to label jar with contents and date.
  • Take as a tonic by the tablespoon or shot glass.

HOW & WHEN TO USE: Many people take 1-2 tablespoons or one shot throughout the fall/winter months to support immune function.

Here are some more ways to use it:

  • As a “wellness shot” – I actually love the taste, so I put about 1 oz. in a shot glass to drink straight up!
  • Added to herbal tea – If so wish, put couple of tablespoons in lemon ginger tea.
  • Mixed with water – If you don’t feel like making herbal tea, just mix it to taste with hot water and the honey.
  • In juice – For little ones, mix a small amount into freshly-pressed orange juice or lemonade
  • As a marinade – It’s delicious with beef or chicken or even pork.
  • As a Topper – Mix with fresh fruit or your favorite ice cream.