Winter bugs and sore throats are a given - but there is a stimulating yet simple store-cupboard ingredients remedy you can knock up that can last up to 1 year in a cool dry place.
This warming liquid can be added to a little hot or cold water or mixed with honey & water to gargle if your throat is on fire.
Fire cider is a traditional remedy for improving circulation, stimulating digestion and is handy for coughs. But note - it's a fiery one so its not for the faint-hearted!
Ingredients:
1 small onion, sliced or coarsely chopped
Few sprigs of rosemary, thyme and sage
5 chillies
1 teaspoon cayenne / chilli pepper
10cm piece of fresh ginger root, finely chopped
5cm piece of fresh turmeric, finely sliced
5-10cm piece of fresh horseradish root, finely sliced
1 whole head of garlic, peeled and crushed
1 unwaxed lemon, sliced
1 litre raw apple cider vinegar
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1. Layer all of the ingredients in a large glass jar (big enough for all ingredients + 1 litre of vinegar).
2. Pour over the apple cider vinegar and leave to infuse for 2-4 weeks, then strain. It can be taken within a few hours of infusing but for best results, infuser for a few weeks.
3. Bottle the strained liquid and add a label for the expiry date (1 year if stored in a cool dry place). Simple!
4. To use, add 1-2 teaspoons of the strained liquid in a little hot or cold water. For sore throats , mix 1 teaspoon with 1 teaspoon of honey in 4 teaspoons of water to gargle and swallow.
