How To Make Fire Cider – Cold & Flu Remedy
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How To Make Fire Cider – Your Go-To Cold & Flu Remedy
What Is Fire Cider?
Fire cider is a potent herbal tonic made by infusing immune-boosting ingredients like garlic, ginger, horseradish, and apple cider vinegar. It’s a traditional remedy often used to help stave off colds, soothe sore throats, and give your immune system a much-needed boost during flu season. This spicy, tangy concoction has been a staple in herbal medicine cabinets for decades, and for good reason!
Making fire cider is not only a fun and simple DIY project but also a way to ensure you’re consuming a natural remedy free from additives and preservatives. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile: drizzle it over salads, mix it with honey for a throat-soothing elixir, or take a quick shot to clear your sinuses and wake up your senses.
Why Should You Make Fire Cider?
Modern medicine is incredible, but there’s something empowering about creating your own remedies. Fire cider is packed with ingredients that have been revered for their health benefits:
- Garlic: A natural antimicrobial and immune booster.
- Ginger: Anti-inflammatory and great for digestion.
- Horseradish: Helps clear sinus congestion.
- Turmeric: Known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
- Cayenne Pepper: Stimulates circulation and metabolism.
These ingredients combine to create a powerhouse remedy that’s cost-effective, shelf-stable, and ready when you need it most.
How To Make Fire Cider
Ingredients:
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 10 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup grated fresh ginger
- 1/4 cup grated horseradish
- 2-3 fresh hot peppers (such as jalapeño or habanero), sliced
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- 1 orange, sliced
- 2 tablespoons turmeric powder (or 2 inches of fresh turmeric root, grated)
- 2 tablespoons raw honey (optional, for sweetness)
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
- 2–3 cups raw, unfiltered apple cider vinegar (enough to cover all ingredients)
Tools:
- A quart-sized glass jar with a lid
- Parchment paper (to protect the lid from the vinegar)
- Fine mesh strainer
- A large bowl for straining
Instructions:
- Prepare the Ingredients: Chop, grate, and slice all your fresh ingredients. Be sure to wear gloves when handling hot peppers to avoid irritation.
- Layer the Ingredients: Place all the ingredients except the honey into your glass jar. Pack them tightly but leave about an inch of space at the top.
- Add the Vinegar: Pour the apple cider vinegar into the jar, making sure all the ingredients are submerged. Use a clean spoon to press the solids down if necessary.
- Seal and Label: Place a piece of parchment paper over the jar’s mouth before screwing on the lid. This prevents the vinegar from corroding the metal. Label the jar with the date you made it.
- Infuse: Store the jar in a cool, dark place for 4–6 weeks. Shake it gently every day to ensure the ingredients are well-mixed.
- Strain and Store: After the infusion period, strain the mixture into a clean bowl using a fine mesh strainer. Discard the solids and transfer the liquid to a clean glass bottle or jar. Store in the fridge for up to 6 months.
How To Use Fire Cider
Sinus Relief: Add
Daily Immune Support: Take 1 tablespoon daily to keep your immune system strong.
At the First Sign of Illness: Increase the dose to 2–3 tablespoons per day.
Cooking: Use it as a zesty salad dressing, add it to marinades, or drizzle over roasted vegetables.
