As the days get cooler, it’s the perfect time to give your immune system a little extra love.

This zesty, herbal tonic is packed with ingredients like garlic, ginger, horseradish, and apple cider vinegar, all known for their immune-boosting, warming, and decongestant powers. A little spicy, a little tangy, and totally invigorating, it’s a traditional remedy with a kick.

ingredients

• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1 bulb garlic, peeled and crushed
• 1/2 cup fresh ginger root, grated
• 1/2 cup horseradish, grated
• 1–2 hot peppers, sliced
• zest and juice of 1 lemon (organic if possible)
• 2–3 sprigs fresh rosemary or/and thyme
• 1 tablespoon turmeric powder or 2 tablespoon turmeric root, grated
• 1 teaspoon black pepper (enhances turmeric absorption)
• raw apple cider vinegar (enough to fully cover the ingredients)
• raw honey, added after straining
• optional ingredients: orange peel, cinnamon, star anise, cloves, cardamom, fresh beets…

Instructions

1. Prepare your ingredients – chop, grate, and slice all herbs and roots
2. Fill a clean glass jar – add all solid ingredients, packing them in loosely but evenly.
3. Cover with vinegar – pour raw apple cider vinegar over the herbs until everything is completely submerged. Use a non-metal lid or place parchment paper under the lid to prevent corrosion.
4. Label and store – write the date on the jar and store it in a cool, dark place for 3–4 weeks (I left mine for 3 months ooopsie, but it turned out great). Shake daily
5. Strain and bottle – after 3–4 weeks, strain through cheesecloth or a fine mesh strainer. Squeeze out as much liquid as possible.
6. Add raw honey to taste and stir until dissolved.
7. Bottle it up – store your finished Fire Cider in a clean glass jar or bottle. Keep it in the fridge or a cool, dark spot up to 6 months.

Benefits

• IMMUNE SUPPORT – the fiery ingredients are known for their natural antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory properties. helps support your body’s natural defenses, it’s like a hug for your immune system.
• DIGESTIVE WARMTH- a small sip before meals can help stimulate appetite, aid digestion, and keep things moving with ease.
• CIRCULATORY BOOST – it warms you from the inside out, helping promote healthy blood flow and shake off sluggishness, especially during chilly seasons.
• NATURAL ENERGY – instead of that second cup of coffee. It offers a gentle, non-jittery lift that clears the fog and energizes the body,

CONTRAINDICATIONS

Listening to your body is the first medicine.
While fire cider is beloved by many as a natural tonic, it’s not one-size-fits-all. Our bodies are beautifully unique, and what works for one person might not for another. Here are some considerations before adding fire cider to your routine:

• Sensitive stomach & acid reflux – if you are prone to these, start slowly or dilute it well!
• Pregnancy or breastfeeding
• Blood pressure and blood thinner medication – ginger & garlic naturally thin the blood, so it’s not ideal for people with these issues.
• Allergies or sensitivities
• Tooth & throat problems – because of its acidity, undiluted fire cider can be tough on tooth enamel and the throat.

This tonic is rooted in folk herbalism, which honours the wisdom of cycles, nature, and intuition. Every batch is slightly different : reflecting the herbs I have on hand, the season I’m in, and how I’m feeling at the time.

That’s the beauty of folk medicine : it’s alive, evolving, and uniquely yours.

With love, Rebeka