Cold and flu season is now upon us, and what better time to prepare something to help support your immune system! Developed by the herbalist Rosemary Gladstar, the combination of ingredients in Fire Cider are warming, anti-microbial and also help to support digestion. Better yet, many of the ingredients can probably already be found in your kitchen. Fire Cider is a well-known folk remedy used to enhance the immune system during the cold winter months. There are many variations to this herbal folk tonic, so don’t be afraid to get creative with the recipe!
Ingredients:
1 onion, chopped
5 garlic cloves, chopped
2 inches fresh ginger root, sliced
1 jalapeño, sliced
1/3 cup astragalus root*, sliced
1/3 cup reishi mushroom, sliced
1 tsp dried hibiscus flower
2 tbsp turmeric powder
*Astragalus root should be avoided in those with autoimmune disorders
Directions:
Place ingredients in a clean glass jar and cover with unpasteurized apple cider vinegar. The enzymes in the vinegar act as a solvent to extract the medicinal components out of each ingredient, which is why it is important to choose organic ingredients for this recipe. Cover the mixture with a parchment paper-covered lid (the parchment paper stops the vinegar from eroding a plastic or metal lid) and leave for 1 month in a dark place. Shake the jar once weekly and strain after 4 weeks. Combine the strained liquid with olive oil for a medicinal salad dressing, honey for a spicy medicinal syrup, or take it all on its own. Consume liberally for good health over the winter month!
