Herbal Support For the Body Through This Season
We’re officially in sweater weather in most places (believe it or not, it’s even starting to cool down here in Tampa — a very welcome feeling!). As the air shifts and routines settle, I’ve started building my seasonal home apothecary — a simple way to prepare nourishing, plant-based remedies that help my family stay well through the colder months.
Below are a few of my favorite herbal support blends that have become staples in our home.
🌶️ Fire Cider
Fire Cider has truly been a game changer in our household. Popularized by herbalist Rosemary Gladstar, Fire Cider is a traditional herbal tonic that began as a folk remedy — crafted to bring warmth to the body, support immunity, clear sinuses, aid digestion and ease symptoms of colds and flus.
A classic Fire Cider blend includes root vegetables and warming spices such as garlic, onions, turmeric, ginger and cayenne, infused in apple cider vinegar. Some variations add horseradish or hot peppers for an extra kick of heat. Honey is often added to balance the tang and sweetness.
Medicinal actions of common ingredients:
· Garlic: immune-boosting, antiviral
· Onion: antibacterial, respiratory support
· Ginger: warming, circulatory stimulant, immune-boosting
· Turmeric: anti-inflammatory
· Horseradish: antimicrobial, sinus-clearing
· Hot peppers: decongestant, circulatory stimulant
· Apple cider vinegar: digestive aid and solvent
· Honey: soothing and demulcent
There are countless ways to make Fire Cider — depending on how much heat or flavor you like, there’s a recipe for everyone. Here is a recipe I personally use when formulating Fire Cider at home.
For more inspiration, I recommend Fire Cider! 101 Zesty Recipes for Health-Boosting Remedies Made with Apple Cider Vinegar by Rosemary Gladstar.
🍇 Elderberry Syrup
Elderberry syrup is another folk herbal remedy that has stood the test of time — and for good reason. Known for its antioxidant and antiviral properties, elderberry syrup may help reduce the duration and severity of colds and flu. It can also support digestion, help regulate blood sugar and has gentle anti-inflammatory actions.
The Herbal Academy has a wonderful Immune-Stimulating Elderberry Syrup recipe that’s easy to make at home and delicious enough for kids and adults alike.
Safety Note: The raw berries, bark, and leaves of the elder plant should never be eaten, as they contain toxic constituents that can release trace amounts of cyanide. Always use cooked or prepared elderberries when making syrup or tea.
🌿 Building Your Winter Herbal Routine
It’s not too late to start crafting your own winter wellness support. Whether you’re bottling up a batch of Fire Cider, simmering elderberry syrup or simply adding more herbs and roots into your meals — these small rituals can make a big difference in seasonal health.
What medicine will you be making this season?
Con amor,
Christina
References:
· What is Fire Cider? Benefits, Ingredients, Recipe and More
· Fire Cider: A Tonic for Your Health Journey
