Fire cider is a powerful, spicy, and invigorating tonic packed with immune-boosting ingredients that help ward off colds, flu, and other illnesses. This traditional herbal remedy has been used for centuries to promote health and keep the immune system strong, especially during the colder months. The combination of vinegar, herbs, and spices makes it a potent natural remedy. Here’s how to make your own immune-boosting fire cider at home!
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup fresh ginger root (grated)
- 1/2 cup fresh horseradish root (grated)
- 1 medium onion (chopped)
- 10 cloves garlic (chopped)
- 1 jalapeño pepper (chopped)
- 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
- 2 tablespoons turmeric powder (or 2 inches fresh turmeric root, grated)
- 1 tablespoon black peppercorns
- 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary or 1 tablespoon dried rosemary
- 1/4 cup raw honey (optional, for sweetness)
- 1-2 cups raw apple cider vinegar (enough to cover ingredients)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Ingredients:
- Grate the ginger, horseradish, and turmeric (if using fresh).
- Chop the onion, garlic, jalapeño, and zest the lemon.
2. Combine the Ingredients:
- Place all of the chopped and grated ingredients (ginger, horseradish, onion, garlic, jalapeño, lemon zest, turmeric, peppercorns, and rosemary) into a large glass jar (at least 1-quart size).
- Squeeze in the lemon juice.
3. Add the Apple Cider Vinegar:
- Pour enough raw apple cider vinegar into the jar to fully submerge all the ingredients.
- Use a piece of parchment paper under the lid to prevent the vinegar from corroding the metal, or use a plastic lid.
- Seal the jar tightly.
4. Let It Infuse:
- Store the jar in a cool, dark place for 2 to 4 weeks. Shake the jar once a day to help the ingredients infuse into the vinegar.
5. Strain the Fire Cider:
- After 2-4 weeks, strain the mixture through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth into a clean jar, pressing down on the solids to extract as much liquid as possible.
- Discard the solids.
6. Sweeten (Optional):
- If desired, add 1/4 cup raw honey to the strained fire cider and stir until fully dissolved. Honey not only adds sweetness but also boosts the immune-boosting properties of the cider.
How to Use Fire Cider:
- Take It Daily: To boost your immune system, take 1-2 tablespoons of fire cider daily, either straight or diluted in water or juice.
- Use It in Recipes: Add it to salad dressings, marinades, or soups for a zesty, immune-boosting kick.
- Take at the First Sign of Illness: If you feel a cold or flu coming on, take a tablespoon every few hours to help fight off the infection.
Health Benefits of Fire Cider:
- Ginger: Anti-inflammatory and helps with digestion and nausea.
- Horseradish: Clears sinuses and respiratory congestion.
- Garlic: Antiviral and antibacterial, supports the immune system.
- Onion: Packed with antioxidants and helps fight infections.
- Jalapeño: Boosts circulation and contains immune-boosting vitamin C.
- Turmeric: Powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant.
- Apple Cider Vinegar: Aids digestion, balances pH, and promotes healthy gut bacteria.
- Honey: Soothes the throat and has antimicrobial properties.
Conclusion
Immune-boosting fire cider is a must-have natural remedy to keep your immune system strong, especially during cold and flu season. This spicy tonic is easy to make and can be enjoyed daily as a preventative measure or taken when you feel the first signs of illness. Customize it to your taste, and enjoy the warmth and health benefits of fire cider!
