Fire Cider is an old-fashion folk remedy used to prevent illness, especially during the Winter months, but can be used all year long. Because it is a tonic, meaning it is safe to take daily for long periods of time, Fire Cider can support you though times when you need an immune boost.
To make this tonic, I steep herbs and spices in organic apple cider vinegar for six weeks. The vinegar extracts the medicinal properties (volatile oils, vitamins, minerals and other compounds) out of the herbs and spices. Most of the components come from my own garden! I grow all my herbs, vegetables and fruits without chemicals, of course. What I cannot grow here I source from other local growers or companies whose ethical standards I endorse.
Fire Cider has many benefits which lend to keeping you healthy all year long. It is high in antioxidants which essentially 'clean out' your cells of the waste products than can build up which allows them to work more efficiently. Fire Cider is also high in antimicrobial compounds against bacterias, viruses, and fungal infections like candida. It is also high in essential vitamins and minerals. The apple cider vinegar will help with digestion, add good bacteria to your gut as well.
It is best to consume Fire Cider with a well-rounded, organic, wholefoods diet, as well as exposure to sunlight each day, preferably in the morning, drinking clean water, breathing fresh air and intentional movement each day.
Enjoy 1-2 tablespoons of Fire Cider in still, fizzy or kefir water with your first meal of the day.
If you want to know the specific properties of the ingredients in my Fire Cider you can read about them below.....
Alliums (garlic and onions) – Support immune health, blood thinning, anti-microbial, high in sulphur which is a brain antioxidant; high in manganese, calcium, selenium and Vit C
Chillies – high vitamins C and A, high in antioxidants, reduces blood pressure, high in minerals
Oregano – one of the greatest antioxidant foods, anti-bacterial compounds, helps fight viral infections, reduces inflammation, high in vit K
Calendula – supports lymph health, high in beta-carotene (converts to vit A), anti-inflammatory, wound healing properties, antimicrobial including antibiotic-resistant strains and candida (fungal infection)
Ginger – supports the immune system, anti-fungal, anti-viral and anti-bacterial; supports gut health, reduces pain (especially when paired with turmeric)
Turmeric – antioxidant, anti-inflammatory (especially when paired with black pepper), antimicrobial, prevents blood clotting, reduces depression symptoms, detoxifies the body
Black peppercorns – enhances the benefits of turmeric by supporting its absorption into the body, treats the common cold, detoxifier, reduces fever, antioxidant, antimicrobial
Rosemary – enhances blood circulation (therefore supports brain function and increases mood), antimicrobial, supports the respiratory system, high in antioxidants, reduces pain and inflammation, helps relieve indigestion
Thyme – supports the immune, respiratory, digestive and nervous systems, high in antioxidants, traditionally used for sore throats and lung conditions
Lemon - aids digestion, high in vit C and flavonoids, high in B vitamins and in potassium, copper and magnesium, the volatile oils in the peel provide large amounts of antioxidants