FIRE CIDER

Fall is the time of year to start batches of fire cider - an herbal infusion made with apple cider vinegar and powerful plant ingredients. Drink a shot or two a day during cold + flu season to support the immune system and aid digestion. Dilute in tea or take straight up. Also delicious as a dressing, marinade, or in cocktails. Choose and customize your ingredients based on desired outcome and taste.

Fire cider takes about a month to brew - start yours today!

Generally, these are the main ingredients to use, along with a handful of strong herbs (rosemary, thyme, sage). Make a batch with friends, as they are less expensive if purchased in bulk, and it's much more fun!

horseradish: sinus clearer, upper respiratory support
ginger: digestive aid, fights infection, circulatory aid, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant
turmeric: anti-inflammatory, digestive aid
black pepper: increases bioavailability of other ingredients (turmeric)
garlic + onion: broad-spectrum antimicrobial + antibacterial, supports heart + circulatory health
cayenne + hot peppers: cardiovascular + circulatory support
honey: delicious, soothing, acts as a buffer; use honey from your local area
lemon: nutrient rich, antibacterial

FIRE CIDER RECIPE:
apple cider vinegar with 'the mother'
1/2 cup each fresh ginger + horseradish, chopped or grated
1 small onion, chopped
10 cloves garlic, crushed
2 hot peppers, chopped
zest + juice ONLY of 1 lemon ((do not add the whole lemon!)
1/4 teaspoon cayenne
1 tablespoon dried turmeric (or 2 tbsp freshly grated)
fresh (or dried) herbs, lightly chopped or torn (woody stemmed herbs work best)

Combine the above in a quart-sized mason jar, top with ACV.
Cover mouth of jar with parchment paper before capping tightly. Shake well.
Label + date. Store in fridge for 3-4 weeks, shaking every so often. After infusing, strain ingredient. Add local honey to taste. Take 1-2 shots daily during cold + flu season or as a digestive aid.

Looking for more herbal recipes + inspiration? Check out The Botanical Bible - a beautiful book exploring the art, science, recipes + remedies of the plant world.