Fire Cider: A Tonic for Immunity and Wellness

Fire Cider stands as a cherished folk remedy in Western Herbal Medicine, an enduring classic that's hailed for its immune-boosting power. This tasty elixir, often referred to as an oxymel, combines the healing power or apple cider vinegar and honey. Along with a few party staples, it serves as a steadfast companion through the challenging cold and flu season.

These common kitchen staples, including garlic, onion, ginger, and horseradish, are not just flavorful additions, but also natural immune-boosting powerhouses, packed with antioxidants and compounds that can help fortify your body's defenses against illness.

What makes Fire Cider so great is its simplicity and accessibility as anyone can make it from the comfort of home with just a few basic ingredients.

And a single batch can last you throughout the entire cold and flu season! While this recipe provides you with the basic ingredients to make Fire Cider, it is easily customizable so you can feel free to switch up your ingredients from year to year based on what is easily available to you. We like to add in some extra medicinal herbs such as Echinacea or Turmeric for an added punch. 

Embrace Fire Cider not only as an immune ally but as a warming digestive companion during chilly days. Beyond its health-enhancing qualities, it also makes a versatile addition to your culinary creations. Elevate your dishes with a dash of Fire Cider-infused salad dressings, or let it drizzle over your tacos. For the more adventurous souls, get creative with Fire Cider in your cocktails and craft delightful concoctions.

In times of illness you can take up to 3 tablespoons per day, welcoming its restorative benefits and assisting you on your path to recovery and wellness.

Ingredients:

• 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
• 1/2 cup fresh grated organic ginger root
• 1/2 cup fresh grated organic horseradish root
• 1/4 tsp organic cayenne powder
• organic apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 cup of raw, local honey, or to taste

Optional ingredients: Turmeric, Echinacea, Cinnamon, Rosemary, etc. The sky's the limit with what you can add to your Fire Cider! 

Directions:

1. Prepare the onion, garlic, jalapenos, lemon, ginger, and horseradish and add them all to a 1 litre glass jar along with your turmeric and cayenne powders.
2. Fill the jar to the top with the apple cider vinegar, make sure all of the ingredients are covered.
3. Place a piece of parchment paper under the lid to keep the vinegar from touching the metal lid. Shake well.
4. Store in a dark, cool place for a month and remember to shake it up daily.
5. After about 4 weeks, strain out the pulp using a cheesecloth, pouring the vinegar into a clean jar. Be sure to squeeze out as much of the liquid from the pulp as you can.
6. Add in your honey to the strained vinegar and mix until fully combined. Taste and adjust sweetness to your preference.

Consume 1 tablespoon daily to ward off colds and flus, or up to 3 tablespoons daily in times of illness. You can add a few drops as a seasoning to your meals or consume it on its own.

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