As the cooler months roll in, it’s time to start preparing our immune systems for winter—and there’s no better traditional remedy than Fire Cider. This spicy, tangy, warming herbal tonic has become a staple in many herbalists’ homes, but did you know it has roots that go back well before it became popular in modern herbal circles?
The Origins of Fire Cider
While Rosemary Gladstar, a respected American herbalist, is credited with popularising Fire Cider in the 1970s, she never claimed to invent it. The concept of soaking immune-boosting herbs in vinegar dates back centuries in traditional folk medicine. Herbal vinegars were used throughout Europe and early America to preserve fresh herbs and deliver their benefits during the winter months.
Rosemary simply gave it a name, made it accessible to modern herbalists, and encouraged people to craft their own immune-boosting blends using fresh, everyday ingredients. Her enthusiasm sparked a worldwide herbal movement—and Fire Cider is now a cold-season classic!
Common Fire Cider Ingredients & Their Benefits
Fire Cider is typically a vinegar-based herbal infusion made with a variety of potent, warming herbs and vegetables. Here’s what you’ll often find in a classic batch, and how each ingredient supports your body:
Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV)
- Acts as the base, drawing out the active compounds from the herbs.
- Supports digestion, blood sugar balance, and has antimicrobial properties.
- A prebiotic that nourishes your gut flora—so important for immune health.
Garlic
- Antiviral, antibacterial, and antifungal—nature’s own antibiotic!
- Stimulates the immune system and supports cardiovascular health.
Horseradish Root
- Clears sinuses and boosts circulation.
- A strong antimicrobial that works especially well during colds and flus.
Onion
- Rich in antioxidants and quercetin, which supports immune health.
- Naturally antimicrobial and a strong anti-inflammatory.
Cayenne Pepper
- Stimulates digestion and improves circulation.
- Known to break up mucus and clear congestion fast.
Ginger Root
- Soothes the gut and enhances absorption of nutrients.
- Anti-inflammatory, warming, and helpful for nausea or cold chills.
Lemon (optional)
- High in vitamin C and a gentle liver cleanser.
- Adds a bright citrus kick while supporting immune defence.
Rosemary or Thyme (optional but lovely)
- Antibacterial and antiviral.
- These aromatic herbs support respiratory function and help clear chest congestion.
Buy Fire Cider or Make Your Own
At Oak Tree Herbal Clinic, we make a handcrafted Fire Cider using high-quality, organic ingredients that are steeped for weeks to extract maximum benefit. This isn’t just a health tonic—it’s a tradition in a bottle.
As winter approaches, now is the perfect time to stock up on our ready-made Fire Cider or pick up the herbs to make your own at home. Whether you take a shot daily as prevention, mix it with warm water as a soothing tea, or drizzle it over salads, Fire Cider is a must-have herbal ally for cold and flu season.
DIY Fire Cider Recipe
Make your own immune-boosting herbal tonic at home!
Ingredients:
- ½ cup grated horseradish root (fresh is best!)
- ½ cup chopped onion
- ¼ cup chopped garlic
- ¼ cup grated ginger root
- 1 small chilli or 1 tsp cayenne pepper
- Zest and juice of 1 organic lemon
- A few sprigs of fresh rosemary or thyme
- Optional: 1 tbsp turmeric (fresh or dried)
- Raw apple cider vinegar to fill the jar
- Raw honey to taste (added after straining)
Instructions:
- Place all herbs and veggies into a clean 1L glass jar.
- Pour apple cider vinegar over the mixture until everything is fully covered.
- Use a plastic lid (or place parchment paper between the lid and vinegar to prevent corrosion).
- Shake daily and store in a cool, dark place for 3–4 weeks.
- Strain the mixture, bottle the liquid, and stir in raw honey to taste.
- Store in the fridge and take 1–2 teaspoons daily during the winter months.
Visit our online store to browse other winter immune boosting herbal blends, including already made Fire Cider Vinegar
Stay warm, stay well
Herbal Naturopathic/Nutritional Appointments - in Person and On line
If you would like to have a more tailored approach to your health concerns you can book in to see our Herbal Naturopath. (you will be transferred to our sister companies online booking service) She will look at you as an individual and look into your specific needs through holistic and evidence-based approach to wellness. Herbal Naturopathic principles are based on treating each person as an individual and treatment plans are designed to treat you as a whole person and not just your presenting symptoms.