The holiday season is upon us. Days grow shorter, temperature is dropping, and chances of getting sick are rising. This is the perfect time of year to make my favorite immune-boosting, fermented beverage: fire cider!
What is Fire Cider?
Fire Cider is a term coined by herbalist Rosemary Gladstar to describe a fermented, herbal tonic used to boost the immune and cardiovascular systems. Fire cider has its roots as far back as 400 BC as Oxymel – a blend of medicinal herbs in vinegar and honey. While there are many variations today the essence is the same: medicinal herbs, roots, peppers and fruit fermented in vinegar and imbibed with honey.
The essential ingredients for any fire cider are garlic, onion, horseradish root, pepper (jalapeño or cayenne), apple cider vinegar, and raw honey. These ingredients contain anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties as well as Vitamin C, Magnesium, and Potassium- all of which are essential for optimum immune health.
Twice a year I like to make a batch of fire cider and keep it in my fridge. Anytime I start to feel under the weather (fatigue, foggy-headed, scratchy throat), I take a shot or two of my fire cider, along with echinacea, orange juice, oregano extract, and lots of water. For the past 8 years this ritual has either kept me from getting knocked off my feet from sickness, or at least helped minimize the carnage.
Words of Caution
There is a good reason behind the name fire cider– this spicy tonic is not for the faint of heart. Due to its fiery content, fire cider can cause indigestion and heartburn if you suffer from any digestive sensitivity. I put plenty of honey in each serving, and dilute it with warm water, making it more of a tea. You can also use it as a dressing on your salads.
Another important point to note is that fire cider is not a cure-all and should not replace vaccines, medicines, and doctor recommendations.
Recipe
Here is my trusty recipe for Fire Cider- it’s simple and just takes time and patience.
Ingredients
½ cup fresh grated ginger root
½ cup fresh grated turmeric root (wear gloves to prevent staining your skin + nails)
½ cup fresh grated horseradish root
1 medium onion, coarsely chopped
1 bulb of garlic, peeled and crushed
2 small jalapeño peppers, chopped
1 lemon, sliced
1 orange, sliced
Several fresh rosemary sprigs
Apple cider vinegar
Raw honey
Directions
Prepare the first six ingredients (be extra careful with the turmeric as it will stain all surfaces), place them into a large bowl, and mix together well. Scoop ingredients into mason jars, then add the lemon, orange, and rosemary to each jar. Pour the vinegar to cover all the ingredients, cover the jar with parchment or wax paper (this will keep the vinegar from oxidizing the metal lid), and screw on the lid.
Store in a cool, dark place for 3-4 weeks, giving the jars a shake every day. Then use a cheesecloth to strain out the liquid into a clean, sealable container to store in the fridge. When you drink your fire cider, add 1-2 tablespoons of honey (or to taste).
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