Post by Contributing Writer, Katie
I don’t know about you, but it’s important to me boost my family’s immune system and treat colds as naturally as possible. This time of year you will find elderberry syrup, homemade chicken stock, immunity boosting tincture and this cider at my house.
Be forewarned, this cider is not for the faint of heart; it will knock your socks off and kick your cold while it’s at it. It is loaded with vitamins‚ antioxidants and phyto-nutrients.
Let’s go over all the powerful ingredients that make up this cider:
Onions
Onions are always a culinary delight at my house. Did you know that they stimulate your immune system? They are also full of antiseptic and antiviral properties that are needed to fight off a cold.
Garlic
What home is complete without it? Garlic is known for its strong antibacterial properties, it works better than man-made antibiotics in my opinion. It improves the circulatory system, strengthens your immune system and promotes detoxification.
Rosemary
Rosemary is antibacterial, a source of vitamin C, good for digestive health and an immunity booster. It also dries up mucus (so nursing mamas may want to skip this addition).
Ginger
Ginger improves blood flow and circulation, is a natural anti-inflammatory, warms the body and relieves pain.
Turmeric
Turmeric is antimicrobial; it attacks bacterial and vital infections, destroying them. It is very effective in treating illness of the respiratory system. It is also an anti-inflammatory.
Cayenne
This spicy little pepper is awesome! Cayenne reduces pain and discomfort. It is also used as an anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and digestive herb.
“Knock Your Socks Off” Cold-Kicking Cider
1 onion
1 head of garlic
¼ cup fresh or dried rosemary
¼ cup chopped ginger root
2 tbs turmeric
2 TBS cayenne (or about 10 dried cayenne peppers)
About 1 quart of raw apple cider vinegar (with the mother, Braggs is a good brand)Corsley chopped the onion and garlic. Add everything but the vinegar to a glass jar. Pour the apple cider vinegar over the top and screw on the lid. Storing out of direct sun light.
Shake once or twice a day for three to four weeks. Strain and pour into a clean glass jar or bottle.
Taking Your Cider
If desired you can add raw honey to tame this spicy cider down a bit and for added healing properties. Warm the cider over low heat, stir in one cup of honey until dissolved.
At the first signs of a cold take 2 TBS up to 5 times daily. I would not advise giving this to children under the age of two. For children, take 1 to 2 teaspoons up to five times a day.
How to Take It
- Straight
- In Soup
- In Vegetable Juice
- As a Salad Dressing
What are your favorite cold remedies?
Katie is a dorm “mama” to 12 amazing girls ages 8 to 18 at a home and school for the Deaf in Baja California, Mexico. She and her “hijas” can be frequently found in the kitchen, the garden or making friends with their new chickens. She loves to read, hike the hills near her home and spend time with her girls. In her spare time Katie blogs at Mexican Wildflower about nourishing foods, herbal remedies, simple living, raising her girls and encouraging other women in their walk with Christ.
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