Benefits of Fire Cider

Fire cider is an old health tonic that has become popular for its immune boosting benefits and as a detox. If you are a fan of taking apple cider vinegar daily, this is a way to add even more benefits to your apple cider vinegar regimen. This apple cider vinegar tonic infused with herbs and vegetables is immune-boosting and can help shorten the duration of cold and flu symptoms. It also contains anti-bacterial, anti-viral and decongestant properties. If you feel you have a weak immune system this is a great way to help you prepare for the upcoming fall season. The base of fire cider usually includes fresh horseradish, ginger, garlic, onions, hot peppers and apple cider vinegar. But there are plenty of other herbs and veggies that you can include into your tonic such as dandelion root, lemon/lime zest, elderberry, echinacea, rosemary, turmeric or honey. These ingredients contain some powerful healing properties including: » Horseradish: Contains antibacterial and antimicrobial properties, helps stimulate digestion and helps clear mucus from the body. In the Middle Ages, both the root and leaves of the plant were used as medicine. » Ginger: Often used to help ease nausea and vomiting. Ginger is also great to help with congestion. Ginger contains anti-fungal properties. » Garlic: A must-have during sickness. Garlic is a powerful antioxidant with antimicrobial, antiviral and antibiotic properties. Garlic is rich in sulfur compounds, which are responsible for its health benefits. Garlic also contains manganese, vitamin B6 and vitamin C. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, evidence suggests garlic may help prevent colds. In one study, people took either garlic supplements or placebo for 12 weeks during cold season, between November and February. Those who took garlic had fewer colds than those who took placebo. And when they did get a cold, the people taking garlic saw their symptoms go away faster than those who took placebo.

» Onions: Contain vitamin C, sulfur compounds and antioxidants. One of the most important antioxidants of onions is quercetin which is considered an antihistamine and often found in many allergy medicines. » Apple cider vinegar: Unfiltered vinegars such as apple cider have a long history of healing. There are countless nutritional benefits of apple cider vinegar including: boosts metabolism, probiotics, enzymes, blood sugar stabilizing, cholesterol lowering, and blood pressure lowering. When purchasing your apple cider vinegar, be sure to look for brands that contain the “mother." Clear and pasteurized vinegars typically do not contain the mother culture and don’t carry the same benefits. » Hot peppers: Contain capsaicin which studies show may be helpful as a pain reliever. Capsaicin also has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Cayenne pepper is also used as a sore throat and strep throat remedy. To make fire cider: When I make my tonic, I add ingredients without measuring. I also tend to use additional ingredients that I have on hand, such as dandelion leaves because they are a natural diuretic, turmeric for anti-inflammatory, and elderberry to help boost the immune system. For the base, place horseradish, ginger, garlic, onions, and peppers in a quart canning jar. Cover with apple cider vinegar until all of the ingredients are covered and the vinegar reaches the jar's top. Before screwing the lid on tightly, use a piece of natural parchment paper under the lid to keep the vinegar from touching the metal. Store in a dark, cool place for 4-6 weeks. When the cider is ready, shake well and then strain the herbs/veggies using a cheesecloth. Add optional honey to taste and store in the fridge.

Because it takes about a month for fire cider to mature, I recommend starting a batch now so you’ll be ready for fall. Many people take 1-2 tablespoons throughout the fall/winter months as a preventative measure. You can also add it to juice or make into a marinade or salad dressing.