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Fire Cider: A Warming Tonic for Immune & Digestive Support

Fire Cider: A Warming Tonic for Immune & Digestive Support

As the seasons shift and sniffles circulate, Fire Cider is one of my favourite herbal remedies to prepare in the kitchen. This spicy, pungent tonic is a traditional folk remedy that supports both immune resilience and digestive function—two systems that are deeply connected in naturopathic medicine.

Made by infusing apple cider vinegar with potent antimicrobial, circulatory, and digestive herbs, Fire Cider helps to:

  • Stimulate digestion and bile flow
  • Support the microbiome
  • Promote healthy immune defences
  • Warm the body and clear congestion
  • Reduce inflammation and oxidative stress

 

Why I Recommend Fire Cider as a Naturopath

From a naturopathic perspective, Fire Cider embodies a core principle: “Food as medicine.” Each ingredient is chosen for its therapeutic actions, particularly for the mucous membranes of the respiratory and gastrointestinal tracts.

  • Apple cider vinegar (ACV): Helps regulate stomach acid, supports healthy digestion, and acts as a natural preservative.
  • Horseradish, garlic, onion & ginger: Powerful antimicrobials that support sinus drainage, circulation, and immune activation.
  • Chilli or cayenne: Increases circulation, warms the body, and supports detox pathways.
  • Turmeric: Anti-inflammatory and liver-supportive.
  • Raw honey (optional): Soothes the throat, adds flavour, and provides antimicrobial benefits.

 

Fire Cider Recipe

This recipe is easy to make at home. It needs to infuse for at least 3–4 weeks, so plan ahead for the cooler months.

Ingredients

  • 1/2 cup fresh grated horseradish root
  • 1/2 cup grated fresh ginger
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 10 cloves of garlic, crushed
  • 1–2 fresh chilli peppers, chopped (or 1 tsp cayenne)
  • Zest and juice of 1 lemon
  • 1 tbsp turmeric powder or 2 tbsp fresh grated turmeric
  • 1 tsp black peppercorns
  • Optional: sprigs of fresh rosemary or thyme
  • Raw apple cider vinegar (enough to cover)
  • Raw honey, to taste (added after infusion)

Instructions

  1. Place all the prepared ingredients (except honey) into a clean glass jar.
  2. Fill the jar with apple cider vinegar until everything is completely submerged.
  3. Seal the jar tightly. If using a metal lid, line it with baking paper to prevent corrosion.
  4. Store in a cool, dark place for 3–4 weeks, shaking daily.
  5. After infusing, strain through cheesecloth or a fine mesh strainer into a clean jar.
  6. Add honey to taste if desired, stir well, and label.

 

How to Use:

  • Take 1 tablespoon daily as a preventive tonic.
  • At the first sign of cold or digestive upset, take 1 tablespoon every 3–4 hours.
  • Add to warm water, tea, salad dressings, or marinades for a spicy kick with health benefits.

 

Naturopathic Tip

If you’re prone to sluggish digestion, frequent colds, or feel the cold easily, Fire Cider can become a daily ally through autumn and winter. It’s also great for children over 5 in small amounts (diluted with warm water and honey)—just check the spice level first!

 

Contraindications:

  • Avoid if you have gastric ulcers, are sensitive to spicy foods, or taking blood thinners (due to garlic/turmeric).
  • Avoid if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

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Fire Cider: A Warming Tonic for Immune & Digestive Support

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