Each November, as we ease into Winter, I prep a batch of homemade fire cider for my family. While you can typically find pre-made fire cider, it is such an easy and fun recipe to make yourself. In short, this spicy vinegar infusion supports the immune system, stimulates digestion, and clears congestion. It is a great thing to keep on hand this winter, so let’s dive in!

A Traditional Herbal Remedy

Fire cider is a traditional folk remedy that has been passed down for generations. It was most recently popularized by Rosemary Gladstar. Spicy and pungent herbs and spices are infused together into apple cider vinegar, making for a zesty combination. The addition of raw honey creates a spicy-sweet final product that helps clear congestion, while also soothing scratchy throats.

While some of the ingredients may differ from year to year, the backbone of the recipe remains the same. Before getting into the recipe, let’s first discuss why and how these herbs help with winter wellness.

Onion & Garlic

Onions and garlic are part of the allium family, along with leeks and shallots. All of these, especially garlic, are high in flavonoids, polyphenols, and allicin, which all contribute to antimicrobial, antiviral and immune supportive properties.

Horseradish

If you’ve smelt fresh horseradish, then you are probably familiar with its decongestant properties. Horseradish clears mucous and congestion. It also mildly antimicrobial.

Ginger

The zest and spice of ginger warms the body and enhances circulation. It is traditionally used to clear congestion and reduce nausea.

Hot Peppers

Hot peppers contain capsaicin, which is helpful for enhancing circulation and increasing mucous secretions.

My Homemade Fire Cider Recipe

The great thing about fire cider is that you can make it however you would like. I tend to loosely follow the recipe from Kathi Langelier, a local Maine herbalist and owner of Herbal Revolution. You can also find her pre-made Fire Tonic at the co-op! Just add what you would like and go from there! The amounts are flexible, so it is fine to do a bit more of one ingredient and a bit less of another. Below is for a quart size jar, so adjust accordingly.

Core ingredients

• 1/2 cup horseradish, grated

• 1/2 cup ginger, grated

• 1 red onion

• 6 cloves garlic

• 2 hot peppers (jalapeño or habanero)

• 4 tablespoons raw honey

• 4 cups raw apple cider vinegar

optional additions

• turmeric (fresh or dry)

• lemon slices

• thyme and/or rosemary

• elderberries

• rose hips

Directions

Combine ingredients into a mason jar, filling completely. Once full, pour in apple cider vinegar. Let infuse for 4-6 weeks, then strain into a clean jar. Fire cider can be taken daily as an immune support, or as needed when you feel a cold coming on. It can be taken straight up, mixed into hot water, or even used in salad dressings.

About the Author

Dr. Hannah is a naturopathic doctor providing whole body adjunctive healthcare to patients in Maine and Massachusetts. She believes every patient has their own unique health journey, which influences her personalized treatment approach. She has a passion for helping women, mothers and families heal and thrive, all while uncovering the root cause of whatever ails them. Her goal is to empower and guide her patients on the path towards healing the mind, body and soul through natural methods of healing. Dr. Hannah sees patients locally in Portland, Maine. Through telehealth, she is happy to serve the people of Lewiston, Ellsworth, Belfast, Bangor, and all the towns in between! She now sees Massachusetts patients through telehealth as well!

Disclaimer

The information provided on or through this website is for educational and informational purposes only. This information is not a substitution for proper and personalized medical diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or trusted healthcare provider before making an adjustments or changes to your healthcare regimen. Natural medicine is not inherently harmless, and therefore it is important to speak with your healthcare providers for personalized medical advice.