How to Make Infused Honey for Food and Medicine

As an herbalist, I don't believe in popping endless amounts of herbs to help keep me healthy. Instead, I'd much rather drink teas, take tinctures, and most especially--use the herbs in my food.



Making flavored honeys serves two purposes for me: I have a chance to make my food more interesting, and it's also a good way to get the benefits of medicinal herbs in a tasty way.



Different flavored honeys have different purposes. I mix cayenne pepper with honey to help my immune system when I have a cold or the flu. I infuse basil or oregano in honey and take it when I have menstrual cramps. I enjoy ginger-infused honey as an anti inflammatory and for colds. And the list goes on.



Of course, you can just make an herb-infused honey because you enjoy the taste--and reap the medicinal benefits at the same time. Here is my recipe.

Things You'll Need

• One cup honey (raw is best, but any kind will do)
• 2 tsp. dried, chopped herbs or 2 tbsp. fresh, chopped herbs
• Container to store the honey (preferably a mason jar)
• Cooking spray
• Mixing bowl
• Metal spoon

Instructions

1. Sterilize the mason jar. I usually do it by boiling the mason jar in hot water for 30 minutes, but the mason jar box should have instructions since there are several methods. If you do boil it, just make sure you wipe the jar dry with a paper towel before before you put the honey in. I also sometimes put it in the dishwasher.

2. Spray the mixing bowl with cooking spray and pour the honey in. Also spray the metal spoon with the cooking spray (it prevents the honey from sticking). Mix the herbs into the honey.

3. Pour the honey and herb mixture into the mason jar and cover. Store in the refrigerator. It keeps for a while, but I make sure to use it within a month. Let the mixture stand for a few days before using.

4. You can eat the honey plain with a spoon, drizzle it over food such as ice cream or oatmeal or use some to sweeten your tea.

Tips & Warnings

• If you use raw honey, try not to heat it. Heat kills the enzymes.

• I've included a web link in Resources below so that you can do some additional herbal research.

• Don't give honey to children under age 2.

Resources

• Botanical.com