Seasonal Shifts: Strengthening Immunity with My Kitchen Remedy

 As the days grow shorter and the air turns crisper, the transition from summer to fall ushers in a myriad of changes. Leaves don their vibrant autumnal hues, and the aroma of pumpkin spice fills the air. Yet, amidst this picturesque transformation, there's another less enchanting transition happening—the shift from warm, sun-kissed days to cooler, brisk evenings brings with it a seasonal wave of illness.

It's a familiar story. As summer fades, the common cold and the flu start to make their rounds, and suddenly, sniffling noses and coughs become all too common. This annual dance with pathogens can be disheartening, but over the years, I've discovered a trusted ally in my kitchen—a potent remedy that helps fortify my immune system and keeps those pesky illnesses at bay.

In this blog post, I will unveil the secret weapon that has become a cherished tradition in my household: a homemade, all-natural concoction that I turn to faithfully as the summer-to-fall transition takes hold. Join me on a journey through the power of this kitchen remedy, as we explore the ingredients, the science behind its immune-boosting properties, and how it has transformed the way I approach the changing seasons. Say goodbye to autumn sniffles and hello to a fortified immune system as we dive into this culinary adventure that bridges the gap between summer's end and fall's beginning.

 

Making the Honey Infusion:

Year after year, as the calendar turns from August to September, I embark on a comforting ritual in my kitchen—a honey infusion that's not only delicious but also brimming with immune-boosting goodness. The beauty of this remedy lies in its simplicity, using ingredients that are commonly found in most kitchens.

Ingredients:

1. Red Onion: This pungent and flavorful onion variety not only adds depth to the infusion but also contains immune-boosting properties.

2. Garlic: A natural antibiotic, garlic adds a pungent kick to the mixture while bolstering your immune system.

3. Ginger: A knobbly root with a fiery bite, ginger is a potent anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial agent that can help keep those seasonal bugs at bay.

4. Citrus Peels (Orange and Lime): The zest of oranges and limes not only imparts a refreshing aroma but also adds vitamin C, a known immune system booster.

5. Cinnamon Sticks: With its warm and spicy flavor, cinnamon brings a comforting element to the infusion and may have anti-inflammatory properties.

6. Star Anise: This fragrant spice contributes both flavor and potential antimicrobial benefits.

7. Cloves: Offering a rich, aromatic note, cloves are known for their potential anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

8. Whole Black Pepper: Adding a touch of heat, black pepper may help improve nutrient absorption and digestion. (Necessary if using Turmeric Root, to increase absorption by up to 2000%)

9. Rosemary: With its aromatic qualities and potential anti-inflammatory benefits, rosemary is a unique addition.

10. Thyme: Not only does thyme add a pleasant herbal flavor, but it's also known for its antimicrobial properties.

11. Turmeric Root: Known for its vibrant color and powerful antioxidant properties, turmeric is a mighty immune booster.

12. Rosehip: These tiny, tangy fruits are packed with vitamin C and antioxidants.

13. Bay Leaf: Offering a subtle herbal note, bay leaves may have antimicrobial properties.
    
    
14. Raw Honey: Raw honey boasts a myriad of benefits, it is antibacterial, antioxidant-rich, provides cough and sore throat relief.  (Some people find that consuming local raw honey may help alleviate seasonal allergies.)

The Process:

1. Begin by slicing the red onion and peeling your ginger and garlic.

2. In a glass jar, layer these red onion slices and ginger

3. Add the citrus peels, garlic, cinnamon sticks, star anise, cloves, black pepper, rosemary, thyme, turmeric root, rosehip, and bay leaf.

4. Slowly pour raw honey over the herbs, you may need to use a utensil to push herbs down as the honey makes its way through the plant matter. Make sure plants are fully submerged in honey.

5. Seal the jar and let the infusion sit at room temperature for one day, and place in the fridge after.
   
   
6. You can start taking this infusion as soon as day 2, take a teaspoon or two daily, especially when you start to feel those telltale signs of an impending cold.

This honey infusion has been a savior for my immune system year in and year out. Its delightful taste makes it a joy to incorporate into my daily routine, and the natural ingredients ensure I'm giving my body the best chance to fend off seasonal illnesses.

Enter Fire Cider:

This year, I'm upping the ante in my kitchen by adding a new player to the game: fire cider. Fire cider is a potent, spicy elixir made by steeping a blend of immune-boosting ingredients in raw apple cider vinegar. This is simply my take on it and you can play with it as you wish. It traditionally uses Horseradish Root, but I could not find any near me.

Ingredients for Fire Cider:

1. Repeat ingredients from honey infusion mentioned above.

2. Hot Pepper: For an extra kick, add a hot pepper to infuse some heat and potential congestion relief. (I used half an apocalypse scorpion and half seven pot chocolate pepper that my neighbor grew herself - Thank you Jeannie!)

3. Raw Apple Cider Vinegar with the Mother: The base of this concoction, apple cider vinegar is known for its digestive benefits and overall health-promoting properties.

The Process for Fire Cider:

1. Combine all these ingredients in a glass jar, making sure the solids are fully submerged in the raw apple cider vinegar.

2. Seal the jar and let it sit in a cool, dark place for 4-6 weeks. Remember to shake it daily to help infuse the flavors.

3. After infused, you can strain and use as is or turn into an oxymel (Oxymel literally means acid honey - and is the mix of honey, vinegar and herbs)

Turning Fire Cider into an Oxymel:

After the month-long infusion, it's time to turn your fiery potion into an oxymel. To do this:

1. Strain out the solids, retaining the liquid.

2. In a clean jar, combine the strained fire cider with an equal amount of raw honey.

3. Mix well until the honey is fully dissolved.

4. Seal the jar, and your fire cider oxymel is ready to use.

Ways to Use the Fire Cider:

1. Sip It Straight: The most common way to use fire cider is to take a small shot (about 1-2 tablespoons) straight from a spoon. It's a potent, spicy kick that can help wake you up and provide immune support.

2. Salad Dressing: Use fire cider as a zesty salad dressing. Mix it with olive oil, a bit of honey, and your favorite seasonings for a tangy and healthy vinaigrette.

3. Marinades: Add fire cider to marinades for meats, tofu, or vegetables. Its spiciness and tangy flavor can enhance the taste of your dishes while also adding health benefits.

4. Cooking: Incorporate fire cider into your cooking. It can be used in stir-fries, soups, and sauces to add a unique flavor profile and health benefits.

5. Tea or Tonic: Mix a teaspoon of fire cider with warm water and honey to create a soothing tea or tonic. It can be especially comforting when you're feeling under the weather.

In the heart of every kitchen lies a treasure trove of ingredients waiting to be transformed into potent immune-boosting remedies. As summer gently yields to the embrace of autumn, we have explored the art of crafting two remarkable elixirs: a honey infusion and fire cider. These culinary concoctions, born from the fusion of everyday ingredients, have the power to fortify our immune systems during those vulnerable months when colds and flus abound.

But here's the beautiful secret: you don’t need to be constrained by a rigid recipe. Your kitchen, your rules. The ingredients listed are but a starting point. Get creative, swap ingredients in or out, use just a few or all of the ones mentioned, and you will still be crafting an immune-boosting kitchen remedy.

In my next blog post, I'll delve deeper into the science behind these ingredients and their immune-boosting properties. But for now, I'm excited to share these time-tested remedies with you as we prepare to face the autumnal shift armed with the power of our kitchens. Together, we'll fortify our immune systems and make this transition into fall a little smoother and a lot healthier.

TikTok Video about these remedies:

@alination Elevate your immunity this season with a homemade kitchen remedy! 🌿🍯🔥 Full description and benefits of each ingredient used can be found in my recent blog post found in my bio! Honey Infusion: 🌰 Red onion, garlic, ginger 🍊 Orange & lime peel, cinnamon, star anise, cloves 🌶️ Black pepper, rosemary, thyme, turmeric root, rosehip, bay leaf Slice, layer, add raw honey, and let sit for a day then place in fridge. Enjoy a spoonful daily! Fire Cider: 🌰 Red onion, garlic, ginger 🍊 Orange & lime peel, cinnamon, star anise, cloves 🌶️ Black pepper, rosemary, thyme, turmeric root, rosehip, bay leaf, hot pepper 🍏 Raw apple cider vinegar with the mother Combine, infuse for a month, then mix with raw honey. Ready for a health boost! Get creative with your ingredients; your kitchen is your canvas! 🎨💪 #KitchenRemedy #ImmunityBoost ♬ Autumn Leaves - Timothy Cole