Fire Cider
For Christmas, my sister-in-law gifted me a homemade jar of Fire Cider. It was my first introduction to the herbal tonic, said to boost the immune system and overall health.
I didn't think much of it until early August, when illness entered our house. We all had sore throats and stuffy heads. I decided to try the Fire Cider and see what it would do.
Holy Smokes! I am so excited about the results, that I can't help but share with you.
One dose of fire cider, and the sore throat cleared up.
Two doses of fire cider, and I had tremendous energy.
Three doses of fire cider, and the sickness was rapidly dissipating.
I continued taking 2 tablespoons, 3-4 times daily for a week, avoiding getting sicker and healing fast!
The results were so compelling that I had to learn more about this tincture. Fast forward a few weeks, and I have made several batches and want to tell everyone I know about this easy-to-make remedy.
What is Fire Cider?
Fire Cider is Apple Cider Vinegar, infused with immune-supporting plants from the garden. Think of every home-remedy rolled up into one!
It includes root vegetables like ginger, horseradish, turmeric, onions, and garlic. It includes fruits and vegetables like hot peppers and lemons. It includes herbs like fresh thyme and rosemary, and dried cinnamon sticks and peppercorn.
What is it used for?
Fire cider is anti-viral, anti-bacterial, and anti-fungal.
It is used to strengthen the immune system. Take it during the cold and flu season to help your body fight off a sickness (1 Tbsp 3-4 times daily) or as a preventative measure (1 Tbsp daily).
This tincture is known to improve digestion and gut health.
It is said to balance the blood sugar and increase the metabolism.
Fire cider warms the body on a cold day.
How is it made?
Fall harvest is an ideal time to make Fire cider, as the nutrient dense plants are fresh and plentiful. My daughter and I were excited to make our own batch!
Chop the ingredients and place in a quart-sized jar. Pour raw, unfiltered apple cider vinegar over the contents. Cover and store in a cool, dry place. Wait at least 4 weeks for the vitamins to infuse into the vinegar. Strain out the vegetable fiber.
Now you have Fire Cider tonic, which can be stored for up to a year.
Ingredients are flexible, as long as you include the apple cider vinegar and hot peppers. My batch included (per quart):
1/4 cup Horseradish root
1/4 cup Ginger root
1/4 cup Turmeric root
3 Jalapenos
1 lemon
1/2 cup onion
8 garlic cloves
1 Thyme sprig
1 Rosemary sprig
1 Cinnamon stick
1 tsp Black peppercorn
Apple cider vinegar (raw, unfiltered)
I made several batches so the entire family can partake. I will keep the veggies in the vinegar and strain at the time of use.
I scoop a tablespoon of Fire Cider and drink it straight. The flavor is spicy and burns a little going down. My kids are less enthused by the taste. It's ok to add water, honey, or maple syrup to the tincture to sweeten the taste.
Let me know what you think! Please reach out with questions. Enjoy!
*Disclosure: Ann Bruinsma is not certified in the state of Colorado as a health care provider or medical practitioner. Please contact your doctor with any health-related questions.
