• 3 tbsp (45 ml or 5 g) of dried nettle leaves
• 1 tbsp (15 ml or 2 g) of dried German chamomile flowers
• 1 tbsp (15 ml or 2.5 g) of dried plantain leaves or dried marshmallow root
• ½ cup (125 ml) of apple cider vinegar
• ½ cup (125 ml) of unpasteurized honey

1. In a jar with a capacity of at least 300 ml with a lid, put the herbs, then pour in the honey and vinegar.

2. Close tightly and mix well. If the lid is metal, slip a piece of parchment or wax paper between the jar and lid to keep the acidity from causing oxidation.

3. Let macerate away from light for two weeks, shaking the jar at least once a day.

4. After the 2-week maceration period, strain with cheesecloth or a coffee filter, and keep only the liquid.

Store at room temperature in a tightly closed jar, away from light.

Mix 1 tsp of oxymel in a small glass of hot water (1/2 cup) and consume 3 to 4 times a day, ideally starting a few weeks before the start of seasonal allergies. You can then keep taking it throughout the summer, emphasizing the period when your allergies are more intense.

And don't worry: even if you haven't started a few weeks before the start of the season, you'll see it works when you take your oxymel! It's never too late!!

“But really, what is an allergy?”

Spring allergies, also called “hay fever” or “allergic rhinitis,” are caused by exposure to the pollen of certain spring or summer plants, like birch and ragweed.

Allergy is an exaggerated response of the immune system to a normally harmless substance. The presence of the allergen in the digestive system, on the skin or in the airways triggers an immune response that causes the production of highly inflammatory molecules, like histamine.

Nettle against spring allergies

Thanks to its quercetin content, nettle is a naturally antihistamine plant, meaning it helps control the immune reaction that causes allergy symptoms: watery eyes, itchy eyes, sneezing and coughing. How lucky: it grows wild in spring right when allergies are at their peak!

What's an oxymel?

This potion seems straight out of a Dungeons & Dragons druid's satchel, but actually originates from ancient Greece. It's a medicinal extraction of plants made from a mix of vinegar and honey. On top of softening the taste of plants that are a little less pleasant to drink as an infusion, the oxymel also holds the benefits of apple cider vinegar and honey, namely supporting the immune system and relieving irritated and congested airways.

This recipe is designed to relieve the symptoms of seasonal allergies; it isn't meant to diagnose, treat or cure. For personalized follow-up, see a qualified herbalist or naturopath.