Natural remedies for common minor health problems are becoming increasingly popular and most of them are easy enough to make at home. Fire cider is one of the trendy remedies because it is known to improve a vast majority of common ailments such as colds and digestive health. Herbalists recommend taking it to reduce symptoms during a cold or can be taken as an anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting supplement for years. Consumers of fire cider note a reduction in congestion, improved circulation, and less digestive flare-ups for those with problems with the gut health.
What exactly is this drink that cures everything? F ire cider is a spicy sweet vinegar beverage flavored with vegetables from the root, citrus, spices, hot peppers, and honey. Raw, unfiltered apple cider vinegar is used as the base. It is intended to be taken in quantities of one tablespoon, if necessary, two to three times a day. It is not recommended to drink straight because of the beverage’s potency. On the contrary, add to smoothies, juice, seltzer, tea, or just water in down. You can also reap the benefits by converting it into a meat marinade, salad dressings, or anywhere vinegar can usually be used in cooking.
Fire cider can easily be made at home with readily available ingredients for such a versatile and complex health drink.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- One quart sized glass jar
- Wax paper
- Raw, unfiltered apple cider vinegar
- Raw honey, to taste
- ½ cup horseradish root, peeled and diced
- 2 jalapeno peppers, sliced
- 1 cup ginger root, peeled and diced
- ½ cup onion, chopped
- Juice and zest of two lemons
- ¼ cup crushed garlic cloves
The first step in making fire cider is to prep the ingredients. Be sure to wash hands thoroughly after handling hot peppers.
Next, add the lemon zest and juice (extract zest using a peeler), peppers, and garlic to the bottom of the jar. Then place the heavier root vegetables on top, which is the remaining ginger, onion, and horseradish.
Pour the apple cider vinegar on top until all contents in the jar are covered. This will ensure that none of the ingredients will spoil in the following step.
Line the lid with wax paper so the metal does not corrode. Seal the jar and place in a cool dark place (such as a kitchen cabinet) for 2-4 weeks to mature before consumption, allowing the ingredients to fully infuse into the vinegar.
When ready, shake well and then strain the roots out with a sieve. Add honey to sweeten. Honey has a multitude of survival uses.
Related: Why Honey Shouldn’t Be Missing In Your Stockpile
You can switch out half of the ginger with turmeric for other combinations to get more health benefits for the stomach. For added flavor, you can include whole peppercorns along with fresh herbs such as thyme or rosemary. Have fun, enjoy good health!
