Have You Tried Fire Cider?
Fire cider is a traditional folk remedy that became popularized by herbalist Rosemary Gladstar in the 1970s. Fire cider is an infusion of warming herbs and spices in apple cider vinegar. Traditional recipes include fresh garlic, fresh ginger, fresh horseradish, onion and hot peppers. The herbs are left in apple cider vinegar for four weeks, and then the herbs are strained and raw honey is added.
Fire cider is considered a tonic, and is generally used during the fall and winter months to support immune health and stimulate digestion. It is recommended to use 2-3 tablespoons of fire cider throughout the day. You can add fire cider to teas, use it in soups or salad dressings, or simply ingest it by the spoonful.
The ingredients used to make fire cider are packed with nutrients. Many of the ingredients have antibacterial properties which can be helpful in preventing and shortening illnesses such as colds and the flu. Horseradish is regarded as effective against the common cold, flu and other respiratory infections. Ginger is considered helpful in aiding digestion, and is also used for upper respiratory infections and coughs. Onions have anti-inflammatory properties and are considered beneficial for cardiovascular health. Garlic is considered an immune support and can also help balance blood sugar levels. Hot peppers are considered to boost metabolism and can aid in headache and sinus relief. Finally, apple cider vinegar, which is the carrier of all these nutrient dense herbs and spices, is a good source of Vitamin C, mineral salts, and amino acids. The raw honey which is added at the end contains antioxidants, has antiviral and antifungal properties, and is also helpful for soothing sore throats.
If you would like to try making your own fire cider this season, here is a great resource: https://blog.mountainroseherbs.com/fire-cider
Give it a try and see how it makes you feel! Making your own fire cider is a great way to incorporate more herbs into your diet and to stay cozy during the cold months. Homemade fire cider also makes for a thoughtful homemade gift.
