This tried and true remedy has been my favorite go-to over the past couple of years. This tonic is regarded by herbalists for its ability to help prevent cold and flu symptoms, or shorten their duration if they occur. It’s an apple cider vinegar infusion that contains powerful immune-boosting, anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial and anti-viral ingredients. It tastes better than it smells, but you may have to get use to it at first.
Although I am currently traveling southeast Asia…and winter just does not happen here, my friends and family back home are starting to get their fall and winter wardrobe out. And with cute sweaters and knee high boots, comes the inevitable cold and flu season. So if you are looking for some prevention or maybe a remedy to nip that already brewing cold in the bud, I recommend making this tonic early on, as it has to infuse for about a month before it’s ready. And trust me, you’re going to wish you had!
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup fresh grated organic ginger root
- 1/2 cup fresh grated organic horseradish root
- 1 medium organic onion, chopped
- 10 cloves of organic garlic, crushed or chopped
- 2 organic jalapeno peppers, chopped
- Zest and juice from 1 organic lemon
- Several sprigs of fresh organic rosemary
- 1 tbsp organic turmeric powder
- 1/4 tsp organic cayenne powder
- organic apple cider vinegar
- raw local honey to taste
Equipment
Plastic Lid or Wax Paper
Directions
- Prepare all of your roots, fruits, and herbs and place them in a quart-sized jar. (If you’ve never grated fresh horseradish before- be prepared for an intense sinus opening experience!)
- Pour the apple cider vinegar over all the herbs, until you get to just below the rim.
- Use a piece of natural parchment paper under the lid to keep the vinegar from touching the metal, or a plastic lid if you have one (plastic lids are much easier, in my opinion).
- Shake well. Store in a dark, cool place for a month and remember to shake daily!
- After one month, use a cheesecloth to strain out the pulp, pouring the vinegar into a clean jar. Be sure to squeeze as much of the cider goodness as you can from the pulp while straining. Next…comes the honey. Add 1/4 cup of honey and stir until incorporated. Taste your cider and add more honey until you reach your desired sweetness.
How to Use It
Fire Cider is very potent. You will want to take about a shot glass full a couple times a day. If you are fighting a cold or flu, or perhaps just feeling under the weather, take a shot glass full every couple of hours. It is also nice to add to your homemade salad dressings! It is very versatile- have fun with it.
If you would like to see it being made, then watch this tutorial by one of my favorite herbalists, Rosemary Gladstar.
