How to make herbal honey

What is herbal honey?

Herbal honeys are heavenly. And they are a very effective way of extracting some of the vital properties of the plants. The honey of course adds its own softening, moistening and nutritive benefits as well as being an excellent preservative. Many herbal traditions attest that a little honey boosts the effectiveness of the herbs.

What can I use herbal honey for?

Herbal honeys are good for where honey is good for- especially our respiratory system – thereby imparting a synergistic effect. It can also be used as a sweet treat to add to tea, baked goods, lemonade…

Which herbs can I use to make a salve?

How do I make herbal honey?

Makes 1 jar of delicious herbal honey

Ingredients

• 50-100g Dried herbs
• 300-500g Runny honey

Equipment

• A clean and dry jar and lid
• A spoon to stir
• A heat-proof bowl
• Scales
• A sieve

Method

• Weigh out your herbs (a ratio of 1 part herb to 4 parts honey works well)
• Place your herbs in a glass, heat-proof bowl or in a bain-marie.
• Add the honey to the bowl, ensuring there is enough honey to cover the herbs.
• Place over simmering water.
• Leave to infuse for a couple of hours on the lowest heat, making sure the pan doesn’t boil dry.
• Carefully strain the infused thyme honey and pour into jars.
• Label and date your herbal honey.
• Store in a cool dark place and use within a year.

Helpful Hints

• If honey goes over 45°C then it can lose some nutritious value which is why this is best made on low heat in a pan without contact with direct heat.
• A ratio of 1 part herb to 4 parts honey works well, infused for a couple of hours.