Make This Before You Get Sick

Nov 07, 2024

Fire cider is an easy-to-make, vinegar-based tonic with aromatic and spicy herbs that support the immune system, particularly during cold and flu season. This blog will walk you through the benefits of each herb, how to make fire cider, and the best ways to use it when you’re feeling under the weather.

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What is Fire Cider?

Fire cider is a traditional herbal remedy made by infusing vinegar with pungent and aromatic herbs, such as garlic, ginger, and cayenne. After steeping, the mixture is sweetened with honey to make it more palatable. It’s a simple remedy that can be made with common kitchen ingredients and is safe for daily use.

Benefits of Fire Cider Ingredients

Each ingredient in fire cider serves a purpose, from stimulating digestion to supporting immunity.

Aromatic Herbs

Aromatic herbs, like rosemary, thyme, and mint, add rich flavors while providing digestive benefits. These herbs are high in volatile oils, which help relax the digestive muscles, prevent bloating, and support healthy digestion. Commonly found in the kitchen, aromatic herbs make an excellent addition to fire cider and enhance its effectiveness.

Pungent Herbs

Pungent herbs like ginger, garlic, and cayenne pepper bring heat and spice to the blend. These herbs are known to:

Stimulate Circulation: Improve blood flow and oxygen delivery throughout the body.
Boost Metabolism: Support fat burning and energy production.
Clear Congestion: Help break up mucus and relieve respiratory congestion. Pungent herbs are also antimicrobial, which makes them particularly helpful for fighting off colds and other infections.

Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar is the base of fire cider and acts as both a preservative and extraction medium for the medicinal compounds in the herbs. Vinegar supports digestion, regulates blood sugar, and adds to the overall wellness benefits of fire cider.

Fire Cider Recipe

Ingredients:

½ onion, chopped
10 garlic cloves, smashed or chopped
1-2 jalapeños or cayenne peppers, sliced
3 inches horseradish root, chopped
3 inches fresh ginger, sliced
Apple cider vinegar
Honey (to taste)

Instructions:

Prepare Ingredients: Peel and chop the onion, garlic, horseradish, and ginger. Slice the jalapeños (removing seeds if you prefer less heat).

Combine in a Jar: Place all ingredients in a clean jar.

Add Vinegar: Pour enough apple cider vinegar to cover the ingredients completely. Use a plastic lid or cover the jar with wax paper before sealing with a metal lid.

Steep: Let the mixture steep in a cool, dark place for 4-6 weeks, shaking the jar daily. To speed up the process, blend the ingredients before steeping or give the jar a few hot water baths to extract the herbs faster.

Strain and Add Honey: After steeping, strain the mixture and add honey to taste. This helps preserve the cider and makes it more enjoyable to take.

How to Use Fire Cider

Fire cider can be used in several ways depending on your preference and need:

Immune Boosting Shot: Take a small shot (about 1-2 tablespoons) straight for a quick immune boost.
Diluted in Water: Mix a tablespoon in a glass of water if you prefer a milder taste.
Herbal Hot Toddy: Combine 1 tablespoon of fire cider, 1 teaspoon honey, a squeeze of lemon, and a dash of cayenne in hot water. This soothing drink is perfect for easing a sore throat and clearing congestion.

Stock Up on Fire Cider for Cold Season

Having fire cider on hand is a great way to be prepared for cold and flu season. This natural tonic supports your body’s defenses, so make a batch in advance to have it ready when you need it.

Get precise measurements and detailed insights into the medicinal benefits of each ingredient by downloading the free PDF below