Herbal Recipe for the Winter Months

During Autumn, there are many opportunities to prepare for the cold and flu season for the upcoming Winter months. A yearly ritual that has become a favorite activity is the making of fire cider to have at hand or to take as a precautionary tool. 

Fire Cider is said to have been coined by the traditional herbalist Rosemary Gladstar sometime in the 1970's. It has no doubt been tested in many different ways before and ever since her original formula. It is believed that the mixture of certain herbs with apple cider vinegar can help aid respiratory issues and the immune system to say the least.  Each of the ingredients have benefits such as digestion aid, circulation and general anti inflammatory effects. The flavor will end up tasting, well a little fiery, but the benefits are worth the time and effort. 

Traditional Ingredients

• 1 Onion
• 3 heads of  chopped garlic
• 1/2 cup grated turmeric root 
• 1 lemon Diced  (keep peel)
• 1/2 cup grated ginger root
• 1/4 cup of Thyme 
• 1/4 cup  grated horseradish root 
• Cayenne or Jalapeno to taste
• Honey to taste 
• Apple Cider Vinegar  

Aside from the honey and apple cider vinegar, gather all your ingredients and place these in a large glass container, such as a mason jar. It will make for a nice picture so place them in gently so you can see the different colors and harvest build. Beauty is of course always in the journey of things. 

Add enough apple cider vinegar to sufficiently cover all the ingredients. For this measurement, I tend to pour the entire bottle in the mixture. 

Place a wax paper covering between the jar lid and bottle and make sure it's tight. Store it in a dark and preferably warmer place such as a cupboard for at least three weeks. You may leave it longer if you feel called to do so. Make sure to give it a quick shake daily to stir the ingredients. Add a small label noting ingredients and date of mixture. One thing I have found myself adding is a small phrase in my label thanking the herbs for its resources and my good health. PVOZ (positive vibes only zone) , am I right   :) 

After storing it for the desired time, simply strain liquids from the herbs, add the honey to your taste and re-store in a smaller bottle. 

Take 1/2  to 1 tablespoon when starting to feel ill with a cold. It can also be taken as preventative to combat any cold like symptoms.

If you would like to learn more about this elixir or about the benefits of each ingredient, visit The Herbal Academy. It is one of our favorite resources for all things in Herbalism.