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Fire cider is a traditional herbal tonic that’s packed with immune-boosting ingredients, often used to ward off colds, flus, and other ailments. Including elderberries adds a wonderful immune-boosting and antioxidant-rich element to the mix. Here’s a holistic recipe for fire cider with elderberries:
Fire Cider with Elderberries
Ingredients:
- 1 cup fresh or dried elderberries: Known for their antiviral and immune-boosting properties.
- 1 large onion, chopped: Antibacterial and supports respiratory health.
- 10 cloves of garlic, minced: A powerful antimicrobial and immune enhancer.
- 1/4 cup fresh ginger root, grated: Anti-inflammatory and aids digestion.
- 1/4 cup fresh horseradish root, grated: Clears sinuses and stimulates digestion.
- 2-3 fresh hot peppers, chopped (like jalapeño or habanero): Increases circulation and warms the body.
- 1 lemon, sliced: Rich in vitamin C, detoxifies, and balances pH.
- 1 orange, sliced: Adds additional vitamin C and a pleasant flavor.
- 1/4 cup fresh turmeric root, grated (or 2 tablespoons dried turmeric powder): Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant.
- 2-3 sprigs of fresh rosemary: Antioxidant and enhances circulation.
- 1/4 cup fresh thyme: Antimicrobial and supports lung health.
- 1-2 sticks of cinnamon: Adds warmth and supports digestion.
- 1-2 tablespoons whole black peppercorns: Enhances absorption of turmeric and adds warmth.
- Raw apple cider vinegar (enough to cover all ingredients): Fermented vinegar that supports digestion and extracts the beneficial properties of herbs.
- Raw honey to taste: Antibacterial and adds a soothing sweetness.
Instructions:
- Wash and chop all fresh ingredients as needed.
- Place the elderberries, onion, garlic, ginger, horseradish, hot peppers, lemon, orange, turmeric, rosemary, thyme, cinnamon, and black peppercorns into a large, clean jar.
- Pour the raw apple cider vinegar over the ingredients until they are fully submerged.
- Use a piece of parchment paper or wax paper under the lid to prevent the vinegar from corroding the metal lid, then cap tightly.
- Store the jar in a cool, dark place for 4-6 weeks. Shake the jar daily to help with the infusion process.
- After 4-6 weeks, strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth into a clean jar or bottle, pressing out all the liquid from the plant material.
- Stir in raw honey to taste, which helps balance the vinegar’s acidity and adds additional soothing properties.
- Store your finished fire cider in the refrigerator or in a cool, dark place. It can last for several months.
How to Use:
- Take 1-2 tablespoons daily as a preventative measure during cold and flu season.
- Increase the dosage to 3-4 tablespoons a day if you feel a cold or flu coming on.
This recipe can be adjusted according to your taste preferences and available ingredients. Enjoy the benefits of this powerful, holistic tonic!
Want to add some extra immune boosting ingredients? Check out our blog post on which herbs are best for your immune system!