It's That Time of Year! Let's Make Fire Cider!!

Fire cider is an incredible, spicy, immune-boosting tonic that has been a staple in natural health for generations. Packed with powerful, health-enhancing ingredients, it’s the perfect remedy for fighting off colds and promoting overall well-being. Making your own fire cider at home is a simple and rewarding way to support your health, and using homegrown or organic ingredients will yield the best results. However, if you can’t source them, just do the best you can with what’s available. The benefits remain strong even with store-bought ingredients. Let's take a look at what each can do for you:

Ginger:
Ginger is known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It can aid digestion, reduce nausea, and boost immune function. The zingy flavor of ginger also adds a warm kick to the cider, making it a staple in fire cider recipes.

Turmeric:
A powerful anti-inflammatory, turmeric contains curcumin, which supports joint health, reduces chronic inflammation, and has antioxidant effects. Turmeric’s bright orange color and earthy flavor enrich the cider while providing health-boosting benefits.

Garlic:
Garlic is famous for its immune-boosting properties. Rich in compounds like allicin, garlic helps combat colds, lower blood pressure, and improve cholesterol levels. Its potent antimicrobial properties make it an essential ingredient in fire cider.

Onion:
Onions contain a high concentration of antioxidants, including quercetin, which is known for its anti-inflammatory properties. They also support heart health and boost the immune system, complementing garlic in the cider.

Orange, Lemon, and Lime:
These citrus fruits are packed with vitamin C, which supports immune function and skin health. They also help balance the intense flavors of the other ingredients with a hint of sweetness and acidity. The citrus juices and peels add a vibrant layer of flavor to the fire cider.

Jalapeño and Cayenne Pepper:
Both of these spicy peppers are rich in capsaicin, which supports metabolism and circulation. They help open up nasal passages and stimulate heat in the body, perfect for fighting off congestion and cold symptoms.

Rosemary and Oregano:
These two herbs have antiviral and antibacterial properties. Rosemary is known to improve memory and circulation, while oregano is a natural antibiotic that also helps fight off infections. Together, they add herbal depth to the fire cider.

Elderberry:
Elderberries are famous for their immune-boosting properties. They are packed with antioxidants and have been shown to reduce the severity and duration of cold and flu symptoms.

Goji Berry:
Goji berries are a superfood known for their high vitamin C content, antioxidants, and ability to support immune health. They also provide a slightly sweet note to balance the spiciness of the cider.

Peppercorn:
Black peppercorns contain piperine, which enhances the absorption of other nutrients, particularly curcumin from turmeric. This makes the cider more potent while adding a subtle, spicy warmth.

Ceylon Cinnamon:
Ceylon cinnamon is known as "true" cinnamon and has powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. It helps balance blood sugar levels and adds a comforting warmth to the cider.

Apple Cider Vinegar:
The base of the fire cider, apple cider vinegar is rich in beneficial bacteria and acetic acid. It supports gut health, helps detoxify the body, and has antimicrobial properties. It also helps preserve the cider and extract the nutrients from the ingredients.

Raw Honey: 
After straining your fire cider, adding raw honey not only sweetens the mixture but also adds a host of health benefits:

• Antibacterial & Antiviral: Raw honey contains natural enzymes and compounds that help fight off bacteria and viruses, supporting your immune system.
• Rich in Antioxidants: It’s packed with antioxidants, which protect the body from oxidative stress and support overall health.
• Soothes Sore Throats & Coughs: Raw honey is a time-tested remedy for soothing sore throats and reducing coughs.
• Prebiotic Properties: Honey promotes gut health by feeding good bacteria in the digestive system, which is crucial for overall immune function.

Fire Cider Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 oz sliced ginger
• 2 oz sliced turmeric
• 10 cloves garlic, sliced
• 1 medium onion, sliced
• 1 orange with peel, sliced
• 1 lemon with peel, sliced
• 1 lime with peel, sliced
• 1 jalapeño, sliced
• 2 cayenne peppers
• 2 sprigs rosemary or 2 tbsp dried
• 2 tbsp dried oregano
• 1 cup dried elderberries
• 1 cup dried goji berries
• 1 tablespoon black peppercorns
• 1 cinnamon stick (Ceylon) or 2 tsp powder
• Raw, unfiltered apple cider vinegar to fill jar
• 1 cup raw honey (I get mine locally)

Instructions:

1. Place all the ingredients, except honey, into a large jar. I used a half gallon mason jar. Make sure ingredients are packed in.
2. Pour the apple cider vinegar over the mixture until all the ingredients are fully submerged.
3. Seal the jar tightly and shake well.
4. Store in a cool, dark place for 4-6 weeks, shaking the jar daily.
5. After 4-6 weeks, strain the mixture through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth.
6. Add honey and stir completely.
7. Pour into a dark bottle for storage.
8. Store the fire cider in the fridge and take a tablespoon daily for prevention or 2-3 tbsp when you aren't feeling your best.

A Daily Dose of Wellness

Fire cider is a flavorful and potent addition to your daily routine, especially during the colder months. The combined benefits of these ingredients help support immune health, improve digestion, and fight off infections. Whether taken by the spoonful or used as a zesty addition to salads and other dishes, fire cider is a timeless tonic for boosting wellness naturally. If homegrown or organic ingredients aren’t possible, don’t stress — use what you have, and your fire cider will still be a powerful addition to your wellness routine.