Once in a while there comes along a super ingredient that has versatile purposes. Where we learn all the ins and outs of the ingredient, and consider it a definite staple in the home. Apple cider vinegar is one of those ingredients. Organic apple cider vinegar has properties of being antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal, so it has been used in a variety of ways including cleaners, skincare, and diet. Now, imagine all of these benefits PLUS the benefits of some of the most nutrient rich vegetables, herbs, and spices, in a supercharged immune boosting drink known as “Fire Cider”. The most common ingredients used in this cider are turmeric, ginger, horseradish, jalapeño pepper, lemon, onion, garlic, and of course apple cider vinegar—although there are many variations of additional herbs and spices. You get a supercharged concoction of yummy goodness….. Okay, so maybe not a drink I’d love to gulp down, but with as many health benefits as it provides, it is definitely something I suggest worth rounding up.
This drink has been long known as a remedy to relieve sinus congestion, ward off colds and flus, aid digestion, and increase circulation. Why? Let’s take a look at some of the star ingredients and all of their health benefits in healing symptoms of cold and flu.
Apple Cider Vinegar:
-Antibacterial, antiviral, antihistamine
-Works as natural decongestant
-High content of acetic acid, which is able to kill bacteria
Turmeric:
-Antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antiviral
-Immune boosting
-Improves liver function
-Lowers cholesterol
-Beneficial for digestive health
-Fights free radicals, which is extremely important for protecting immune system
Ginger:
-Anti-inflammatory & antibiotic
-Immune boosting
-Gastrointestinal relief
-Help treat chronic indigestion
-Therapeutic value against respiratory tract symptoms, runny nose, and cough
Horseradish:
-Antibacterial, antibiotic, and mucus-clearing properties
-Wards off respiratory infections
-Therapeutic value against respiratory infections, cold, sore throat, and sinusitis
Jalapeno/Cayenne/Chile Pepper:
-Anti-inflammatory
-Immune boosting
-Great aid in clearing the nose and sinus cavities
-Thins mucus and reduces lung congestion
Lemon:
-Antibacterial
-Liver detox
-Alkalizes body which may make it less hospitable to viruses and bacteria
-Vitamin C and flavonoids work against infections like the flu and colds
-Thins mucus, which relieves blocked respiratory system
Onion:
-Anti-inflammatory, antioxidant
-Phytochemicals & vitamin C helps improve immunity
-Relieves coughs and fights infections
Garlic:
-Antibacterial & antiviral
-Components such as sulphur and bioflavonoids help protect the body from disease and infections
I’ll admit, when I first heard of the ingredients, I was timid to say the least. But the more research I did, the more I realized the chock-full of health benefits that comes from the ingredients, and all of the good it does for your body. Plus, the more you play around with it, the more you can tailor to your tastes and ingredients at hand. Altogether this fire cider is immune-boosting, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and congestion clearing which is a great kick for the health of your body, especially when you have cold or flu symptoms. Below I listed a Fire Cider recipe from herbalist, educator, and recipe developer Emily Han from TheKitchn.
Have you tried any Fire Cider recipes before? Have a comment or suggestion? Try it out and tell me what you think! Enjoy and happy, healthy living!
Ingredients:
1/2 cup peeled and diced horseradish
1/2 cup peeled and diced garlic
1/2 cup peeled and diced onion
1/4 cup peeled and diced ginger
1/4 cup peeled and diced turmeric
1 habanero chile, split in half
1 orange, quartered and thinly sliced crosswise
1/2 lemon, quartered and thinly sliced crosswise
1/2 cup chopped parsley
2 tablespoons chopped rosemary
2 tablespoons chopped thyme
1 teaspoon black peppercorns
2 to 3 cups raw unfiltered apple cider vinegar (at least 5% acidity)
1/4 cup raw honey, or more to taste
Preparation: Place all of the vegetables, fruits, herbs, and spices in a clean 1-quart jar. Fill the jar with organic vinegar, covering all the ingredients and making sure there are no air bubbles. Cap the jar. If using a metal lid, place a piece of parchment or wax paper between the jar and the lid to prevent corrosion from the vinegar. Shake well.
Usage: Let the jar sit for 3 to 6 weeks, shaking daily (or as often as you remember). Strain the vinegar into a clean jar. Add honey to taste. Refrigerate and use within a year.
Source: TheKitchn,HealthMagazine
Image: https://www.flickr.com/photos/mattystevenson/16346764594
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