Ignite Your Immunity With Elderberry Fire Cider

A Potent Potion for Winter Wellness

Changing seasons, back to school, starting a new job?! If we are living our lives, we are also putting our immune systems the test. The constant bombardment of micro-bugs and strenuous conditions are as natural as the sunrise, but it doesn't have to take you out!

Consider this a reminder from your immune system that a little love and support can make all the difference. This is your sign to whip up your very own, zesty batch of Elderberry Fire Cider.

Why Fire Cider?

Fire Cider is a traditional folk remedy that has been used for centuries to boost immunity, relieve congestion, and soothe sore throats. It's a spicy, tangy concoction made with a variety of potent, yet readily available ingredients, each with its own unique health benefits.

Elderberry Fire Cider is a fantastic, healthy addition to your cooking as an infused vinegar. It also can be mixed with some olive oil, salt and pepper to make a fiery salad dressing or can be taken as as straight tablespoon for an instant and powerful immune-boost.

• Dried Elderberries: (4 Tablespoons) Elderberries, with their deep purple hue, have been revered for centuries for their medicinal properties. These berries are packed with antioxidants, particularly anthocyanins, which boost the immune system and combat inflammation. Elderberry extracts have been traditionally used to alleviate symptoms of the common cold and flu, potentially reducing the duration and severity of illness. Additionally, these berries may offer benefits for heart health, digestive health, and skin health.   

  
  

• Ginger: (1/2 Cup) Ginger, a versatile root with a distinctive flavor, has earned its place as one of the most highly coveted herbal medicines for centuries. This spicy root is packed with bioactive compounds, including gingerol, which has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Ginger has been studied for its potential to alleviate nausea and vomiting, especially during pregnancy and after surgery. Additionally, it may help reduce muscle pain and soreness, improve digestion, and lower blood sugar levels.

  
  

• Turmeric: (1/2 Cup) Turmeric, a golden spice with a rich history, is renowned for its powerful health benefits. The vibrant pigment, curcumin, is responsible for many of these properties. It's a potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant, which may help reduce the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease and certain cancers. Additionally, turmeric has been studied for its potential to improve cognitive function, alleviate joint pain, and aid in digestion.

  
  

• Horseradish: (1/4 Cup) As a pungent root vegetable, horseradish offers a variety of potential health benefits. It contains compounds like sinigrin and isothiocyanates, which have been linked to anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antibacterial properties. These compounds may help reduce inflammation, protect cells from damage, and fight infections. Additionally, horseradish has been studied for its potential to support respiratory health, aid in digestion, and even contribute to cancer prevention. 

  
  

• Red Onion: (1 Large) Packed with antioxidants like anthocyanins, these colorful vegetables may help reduce the risk of chronic diseases, including heart disease and certain cancers. They also contain quercetin, a flavonoid with anti-inflammatory properties that can support immune function. Additionally, red onions are a good source of vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin C and potassium, which contribute to overall well-being.

  
  

• Garlic: (1 Bulb) Garlic, a flavorful and versatile ingredient, has been used for centuries for its medicinal properties. This pungent bulb is packed with compounds like allicin, which possess potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. These properties may help boost the immune system, lower blood pressure, and reduce the risk of heart disease. Additionally, garlic has been studied for its potential to combat certain types of cancer and improve cognitive function.

  
  

• Lemon, Lime and Orange: (1 of Each) Vibrant citrus fruits, packed with vitamin C, these fruits are powerful antioxidants that bolster the immune system, protect against cellular damage, and promote skin health. Additionally, they contain flavonoids, which have been linked to reduced risk of heart disease and certain cancers.

  
  

• Thyme and Rosemary: (1/2 Cup) Rosemary and thyme, aromatic herbs with a long history of culinary and medicinal use, offer a range of health benefits. Both herbs are rich in antioxidants, which help protect cells from damage caused by harmful free radicals. Rosemary, in particular, has been studied for its potential to improve cognitive function and memory. Thyme, on the other hand, possesses antibacterial and antifungal properties, making it a valuable tool in fighting infections.

  
  

• Black Pepper: (1 Tablespoon) Black pepper, a common kitchen staple, plays a crucial role in enhancing the absorption of curcumin, the active compound in turmeric. Piperine, the compound responsible for black pepper's pungent flavor, inhibits the enzymes that break down curcumin in the liver (up to 2000x) according to the National Institute of Health. This allows more curcumin to enter the bloodstream, maximizing its potential health benefits. By combining these two powerful spices, you can significantly boost the bioavailability of curcumin and reap the full rewards of this ancient remedy.

  
  

• Cayenne or Jalapeno Pepper: (1-3) Cayenne pepper and jalapeños, fiery members of the chili pepper family, contain capsaicin, a compound that gives them their heat and has potent anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties. Capsaicin may help reduce pain, improve circulation, and aid in weight loss. Additionally, spicy peppers can boost metabolism.

  
  

• Apple Cider Vinegar: Apple cider vinegar, a tangy elixir derived from fermented apple cider, offers a range of potential health benefits. It contains acetic acid, which has antibacterial and antifungal properties. This vinegar may aid in digestion, lower blood sugar levels, and promote weight loss.

  
  

• Honey: A gift from the bees, honey not only tastes delicious, but it's a good source of antioxidants, which help protect cells from damage. Honey may also soothe coughs, alleviate sore throats, and aid in wound healing.

Other Materials:

• Glass, Air-Tight Jar

• Natural Wax Paper

• Knife

• Cutting Board

• (Optional) Grater

Not only is this recipe wildly forgiving and fully customizable, it couldn't be easier to put together. I have rough measurements laid out above, but when it comes to fire-cider, I encourage you to measure with your heart.

Keep in mind that this concoction will be sitting in a cool, dark space for 4- 6 weeks, which means that any plant material exposed to air will rot and ruin the batch. Because of this, i like to layer my lighter, floatier ingredients at the bottom of the jar and "weigh them down" with the larger, heavier ingredients. Ensure that all plant material is covered in vinegar, and fill another inch or more.

1. Roughly chop peppers and herbs and add to the jar.

2. Add Elderberries to the jar.

3. Grind black pepper and add to the jar.

4. Peel, then thinly slice or crush the garlic and add it to the jar.

5. Chop the red onion into small pieces, and add to the jar.

6. Grate or finely chop the horseradish, turmeric and ginger, and add it to the jar.

7. Thinly slice the citrus, lemon, lime and orange, before adding them to the jar.

8. Add as much honey as you would like to the jar.

9. Once all of the ingredients are layered into the jar, add apple cider vinegar until the jar is full and all of the plant material is covered by at lease 1 inch of apple cider vinegar. Push the ingredients down if you need to.

10. Cover the jar in a square sheet of natural wax paper, and screw the lid on.

11. Leave in a dark, cool place for 4-6 weeks.

12. Once complete, strain the mixture through a colander lined with a cheese-cloth, into a large bowl.

13. Compost or throw the contents of the cheese-cloth out, and pour your Fire Cider into air-tight, glass bottles.

14. Refrigerate your Fire Cider bottles until they are ready to use (up to 6 months).

Let me know how you take your Fire Cider in the comments!

Happy Healing,

-JS