Written by Alisse Andrews
Getting sick used to be a cool excuse for us kids when we wanted a day away from school. Whether we faked sick or really were, we usually had adults to help make us feel better and a mini holiday at home. Being an adult who gets sick now isn’t as awesome, when it costs us time, money, and feels awful! We have to take care of ourselves, now!
While there are always OTC medicine options, these may not always be the best way to go forward. There is an old saying that goes “The greatest medicine of all is teaching people how not to need it”, and in nature, we can almost always find a way for prevention.
Before we continue, however, it is important to note that while herbal medicine is a strong supplement to more traditional medical options, this is blog is not to be used as medical advice. We are not medical professionals. Always consult your doctor on the best way to move forward with your health.
Old traditional medicines dating back to antiquity, (400 BCE to be exact!) involved things like oxymel, which is basically a mixture of honey and vinegar mixed with water.
There is Four Thieves Vinegar which was an evolution of oxymels and this was named after, you got it, four thieves who were said to have survived the bubonic plague by just using the homemade tonic. Fast forward to todays ages, we have now found an accelerated form of its original ancestor tonic.
Introducing “Fire Cider”, a tried, tested and true natural remedy for your common cold and flu, with anti-microbial properties which help kill bad bacteria and lower blood sugar. It’s a nasal congestion reliever, immune system booster and supports digestion. The benefits have made this tonic worthy of your time and efforts. Not only is it cost effective, all natural and better than (but just as potent) your OTC medicines, it has none of the crazy side effects.
Given its use and name, remember, it’s POWERFUL. Those prone to heartburn can dilute in water and still enjoy the same benefits! For those who get sick often or even once a year, remember it takes 4-6 weeks to ferment, and lasts 6 months up to a year on shelf if stored in a cool, dark place. Additionally the fridge will always be a good place to keep it fresh the longest. So without further adieu, let's get cracking.
Fire Cider
Equipment
- 2 quart-sized Mason Jar with lid or canning jar
Ingredients
- 3 cups organic raw unfiltered apple cider vinegar (plus more as needed to cover the ingredients)
- 7 oz fresh horseradish, grated or roughly chopped approximately 1 cup (can also use regular radish)
- 7 oz fresh ginger, grated or roughly chopped (approximately 1 cup)
- 2 oz fresh turmeric, grated or roughly chopped (approximately 1/4 cup & can sub 1 tbsp turmeric powder)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 10 garlic cloves, crushed or chopped
- 1 lemon, sliced
- 1 orange, sliced
- 2-3 jalapeño peppers, sliced or 1/4 -1/2 tsp organic cayenne powder
- 3 cinnamon sticks
- 3 sprigs of fresh rosemary
- 6 sprigs of fresh thyme
- 1 tsp each of peppercorn, cloves and three full star anise! (optional)
Instructions
- Peel and grate the horseradish. Add it to a 1.5-2 qt sized jar along with the sliced ginger, turmeric, jalapenos, onion, orange, lemon, and garlic. Then, add the fresh herbs, cinnamon sticks, and peppercorns.
- Pour the apple cider vinegar into the jar, making sure all the ingredients are fully covered. Add as much ACV as needed to cover the ingredients (this prevents the ingredients from spoiling).
- Seal the jar. Use a piece of parchment paper under the lid to keep the vinegar from touching the metal, or a plastic lid if you have one.
- Shake the jar to combine the ingredients and store the jar in a dark, cool place for up to 4 weeks. Remember to shake the jar once daily to mix the ingredients. (You should store the jar in the pantry where you can see it daily and remember to shake it)
- After four weeks or up to six weeks, use a fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth to strain out the pulp and solid ingredients. Squeeze as much liquid out of the ingredients as you can.
- Stir in the honey until it is incorporated. Taste and add more honey to reach your desired sweetness. Your fire cider should taste hot, spicy, and sweet.
- Store sealed in an airtight jar. Keep in the refrigerator or in a dry, cool place for up to 6 months. Enjoy 1-2 tablespoons daily or use the fire tonic when cooking!
Notes
The best way to use fire cider tonic is to drink 1-2 tablespoons each morning, especially when you’re coming up to cold and flu season or just starting to feel under the weather! And remember, health is the ultimate wealth!!