Fire cider, sometimes referred to as Plague Tonic, is a traditional herbal remedy made in early autumn to help fend off respiratory infections during the colder months. Historically, it was believed that this potent recipe could even cure plagues, hence the name Plague Tonic. Fire cider is highly effective and can be easily made at home with simple ingredients.
What are diaphoretics?
Fire cider is made of herbs that are warming diaphoretics, which means that they promote perspiration and aid in the elimination of toxins through the skin. Sweating helps to restore circulation, clear toxins, and relieve congestion, making diaphoretics useful for colds, flu, body aches, and acute rheumatic issues. Additionally, they offer a non-specific boost to the immune system.
Warming diaphoretics like those in fire cider are especially beneficial when an illness has penetrated deeper into the body. They work by driving the sickness from the core to the periphery. These stronger diaphoretics are ideal for individuals with robust constitutions. For those sensitive to the potent spices in the formula, gentler herbs such as thyme, cinnamon, or angelica can be used instead.
Fire cider ingredients
Key spices in fire cider include:
- Ginger: Warms the body from the inside out, clears phlegm from the lungs, and is beneficial in feverish conditions.
- Cayenne: A powerful heating herb that drives internal heat outward, helping to clear stagnation and thin mucus.
- Horseradish: Stimulates the mucus membranes, acting as a decongestant and expectorant, making it useful for clearing sinuses and catarrh. It has antimicrobial properties and can help alleviate colds, coughs, fevers, and flu.
- Garlic: Known for its immune-boosting properties, garlic is both antimicrobial and antiviral, making it excellent for treating throat and chest infections.
- Onion: Rich in flavonoids with antiviral properties, onions help modulate immune responses.
Fire cider recipe
Finely chop equal parts by weight of garlic, ginger, horseradish, onion, and cayenne peppers. Fill a clean jar to the top with the chopped herbs, then cover them with apple cider vinegar. Shake the jar daily for 2 weeks. Afterward, strain the liquid into a dark glass container.
Take 1 teaspoon several times a day as needed, especially when the infection has moved into the second stage (avoid using during a fever). Fire cider is for short-term use until symptoms subside. Those with acid reflux, GERD, or peptic ulcers should exercise caution when using this remedy.