Wise Woman Herbalism - Fire Cider and the Delicious Art of Winter Wellness
“I am my own healer. I have a radiant voice within that guides me. I can make decisions for myself. I can rely on others as needed, but at my discretion. It is my body, my health, my balance, and my responsibility to make right choices for myself. Right choices include working with competent health-care professionals when necessary, allowing friends and family to help as needed, and, above all, being true to my beliefs, with the wisdom and willingness to change as part of the path of healing.”
– Rosemary Gladstar
Herbalism is often called the people’s medicine because it belongs to everyone. It’s the wisdom of the earth, handed down from generation to generation, across cultures and centuries. It’s not bound by laboratories or pharmaceutical patents but grows wild in fields, forests, and gardens, waiting to be rediscovered by those willing to listen. The dandelion that pushes through the cracks in the sidewalk, the mint thriving in a backyard corner, or the chamomile steeping in your evening tea—they are all part of this ancient, accessible tradition.
Herbalism empowers us to take an active role in our own health. It invites us to reconnect with the rhythms of nature, to observe how the changing seasons mirror the cycles of our bodies. It teaches us that healing is not just about treating symptoms but nurturing balance, resilience, and harmony within. This practice reminds us that we don’t need to have all the answers—nature provides what we need if we are willing to approach with curiosity, gratitude, and care. Herbalism truly is medicine for the people, by the people, and through the boundless generosity of the earth.
Here in Northeast Ohio, the snow is flying, and the chill seeps deep into my bones. After the holiday whirlwind, I find myself feeling a bit weary, almost like the earth herself, longing to rest. It’s at this time of year I turn to my roots—literally and figuratively—and begin the grounding ritual of making Fire Cider, a remedy steeped in herbal tradition and healing power.
Fire Cider, as many of you know, was lovingly popularized by the wise and wonderful Rosemary Gladstar, whose teachings echo through the hearts of herbalists everywhere. This immune-boosting tonic is as bold as it is nurturing, crafted from warming roots, herbs, and spices that awaken the blood, support digestion, and invigorate the immune and lymphatic systems.
Each batch carries its own story, as no two herbalists make it the same way. My own Fire Cider is fiery and full of life—plenty of garlic and horseradish to clear the sinuses and wake the spirit, with earthy beets added for their color and their gifts as a blood tonic.
Making Fire Cider isn’t just a recipe; it’s a meditation, a moment to connect with the rhythm of the seasons and the wisdom of those who came before us.
Fire Cider : A Ritual for Resilience
Ingredients (per mason jar):
• 1/3 cup chopped onion
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh horseradish root
• 1 tbsp chopped jalapeño
• 2 tbsp chopped red beet
• 2 tbsp chopped ginger
• 2 tbsp chopped garlic
• 1 cinnamon stick
• 1 stem fresh rosemary
• 1 tbsp turmeric
• 1 tbsp mustard seed
• 1 slice lemon
• 1 slice orange
To Prepare:
1. Begin by layering all the ingredients into a clean mason jar. As you work, set your intention—whether it’s to invite warmth, vitality, or simply a moment of peace.
2. Add a few tablespoons of dry red wine for antioxidants, then fill the jar to the top with raw apple cider vinegar.
3. Seal the jar and shake it well, ensuring that everything is submerged. (This is key to preventing spoilage.)
4. Place the jar in a cool, dark spot and let it steep for 1–2 weeks, shaking it daily.
5. When ready, strain the liquid into a glass bowl, stir in raw honey to taste, and decant into dark glass bottles. Refrigerate to preserve its goodness.
Last year, my dear herb sister Amy Schiavone shared the most delightful tip. After straining her Fire Cider, she saves the leftover pickled vegetables—the onions, garlic, horseradish, and more—and uses them as a relish for grilled hot dogs. Imagine that bold, tangy flavor as a topping! Isn’t it magical how the simplest ideas can transform something ordinary into something extraordinary? I can’t wait to try this!
How to Use Fire Cider
Fire Cider is as versatile as it is potent. Take a teaspoon when you feel rundown, letting its warmth spread through you, from your throat to your toes. Its bold flavor will wake up your senses and clear your sinuses in the most invigorating way.
But Fire Cider isn’t just for healing—it’s a culinary treasure:
• Mix it with walnut or hazelnut oil for a rich winter salad dressing.
• Add it to slaw for a tangy kick.
• Use it as a glaze for roasted root vegetables, pork tenderloin, or chicken.
• Stir it into tomato juice and vodka for the boldest Bloody Mary you’ve ever had.
However you use it, Fire Cider invites you to experience the alchemy of herbs, vinegar, and honey—a creation that nourishes the body and soul.
Fire Cider is more than a tonic; it’s a connection to a lineage of herbal wisdom passed down through generations. In creating it, we honor those who came before us and strengthen ourselves for the days ahead.
My dear readers, if this post resonates with you, I’d love for you to join me on this journey of herbal wisdom and self-care. I’ve made this article free because this is a recipe that I believe everyone should have access to, but by becoming a paid subscriber to my newsletter, you’ll receive full access to Motherhood to Menopause and The Herbarium for even more exclusive recipes, musings, and guidance to support your own healing rituals. There’s even a paid subscriber chat where we can speak directly. A 7-day free trial is my gift to you—a chance to walk this path of nourishment together.
Here’s to warmth, health, and the wisdom we find in the quiet moments of winter. Let’s keep this tradition alive—together.
