As the seasons change and cold and flu season approaches, it's the perfect time to support your immune system in a natural, effective way. One of my favorite remedies to keep my body strong during this time of year is fire cider! 

For those of you who haven't heard of it, fire cider is a spicy, tangy, and potent herbal tonic made with ingredients like apple cider vinegar, garlic, ginger, honey, and powerful herbs. It's been used for centuries to help boost immunity, fight off colds, and keep your body strong.

Want to give it a try this year? Here's why fire cider is worth making:

• Natural Immune Boost: The blend of ingredients like garlic, ginger, and horseradish are powerful antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory agents.
• Rich in Antioxidants: Apple cider vinegar and honey are packed with antioxidants to help your body fight off free radicals.
• Helps with Digestion: Fire cider can support gut health, which is crucial for a strong immune system.

Other ways to support your immune system this season:

• Load up on vitamin C with fresh fruits like oranges, berries, and kiwi.
• Stay hydrated and add herbal teas like elderberry or echinacea to your routine.
• Get plenty of sleep and take time to de-stress with meditation or light exercise.

Making fire cider is simple and fun, and you'll thank yourself for having it on hand when the sniffles start going around!

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup fresh grated ginger
• 1/2 cup fresh grated horseradish
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 10 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 fresh hot peppers, chopped (jalapeño or habanero)
• Zest and juice of 1 lemon
• 1/4 cup dried elderberries (or 1/2 cup fresh)
• 2 tablespoons dried echinacea root or leaves
• 2 cinnamon sticks (or 2 tsp ground cinnamon)
• 1 tsp black peppercorns, lightly crushed
• 2 tbsp turmeric powder or 2 inches of fresh turmeric root
• 2 tbsp raw honey (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ingredients:
• Grate the ginger, horseradish, and turmeric (if using fresh).
• Chop the onion, garlic, and hot peppers.
• Lightly crush the black peppercorns to release their flavor.
2. Layer the Ingredients:
• In a large mason jar, layer the grated ginger, horseradish, and turmeric.
• Add the chopped onion, garlic, and hot peppers.
• Sprinkle in the elderberries, echinacea, cinnamon sticks, and black peppercorns.
• Add the lemon zest and juice.
3. Add Vinegar:
• Fill the jar with raw apple cider vinegar, making sure all ingredients are submerged. (Optional: place parchment paper between the jar and lid if using a metal lid to prevent corrosion.)
4. Steep:
• Seal the jar and shake well.
• Let the mixture steep for 3-4 weeks in a cool, dark place, shaking the jar daily to encourage infusion.
5. Strain and Bottle:
• After 3-4 weeks, strain the mixture through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth into a clean jar or bottle. Discard the solids.
6. Sweeten (Optional): Stir in raw honey if you prefer to taste.

How to Use:

• Take 1 tablespoon daily as a wellness tonic, or add it to salad dressings, teas, or marinades for an immune-boosting kick.