Doesn't it seem like as soon as flu season is over, another wave sweeps through the masses? At least, that's what's happening this year - even to those who already had the flu just a few short weeks ago.

It's not uncommon that the flu virus changes and mutates in order to proliferate. So, what can we do at home to help stave off catching or re-catching a cold or flu?

How to Make Instant Fire Cider

One of my all-time must-have remedies to have on hand all year round is fire cider. This concoction of potent yet simple medicinal herbs help fight off cold and flu by boosting immunity, supplying the body with much-needed nutrients, and by keeping our elimination pathways clear.

The downside to making fire cider is that it can take a number of weeks before it's ready to use. So, if you're good about making a few batches throughout the year (especially during the summer when cold and flu infections are at their lowest), then this isn't so much of an issue.

However, many of us either forget to top up our supply or need this wonderful remedy "right this minute" and can't wait 4-6 weeks before it's ready.

This is where instant fire cider comes into play!

You no longer need to wait weeks for your fire cider to infuse before use.

So, while I still highly recommend making a good old-fashioned batch of fire cider (which you can learn how to do here), this quick version does just the trick when you need a cold and flu remedy fast.

How to Make Instant Fire Cider for Immune Support

Traditionally, fire cider is made with a mixture of potent ingredients like fresh onion, garlic, hot peppers, horseradish, ginger, lemon, and herbs like rosemary and thyme in a base of raw apple cider vinegar.

These fresh ingredients help boost immunity and shorten the duration of cold and flu with their anti-bacterial, anti-viral, anti-inflammatory, decongestant, circulatory properties. All good things that help your body get rid of a cold or flu faster.

And the best part? It tastes good!

Fire cider, even the instant variety, is a super customizable remedy that can be crafted based on what you have in your kitchen.

Since most of us probably have a pretty good selection of herbs and spices in our pantries, it should be little to no problem to throw together a decent instant fire cider recipe.

To make a well-rounded instant fire cider, you will need:

• 1 8oz mason jar
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic granules - even better, smash a raw garlic clove if you have it and put it in the jar since garlic is best used raw
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• 1 teaspoon ground horseradish
• 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
• 1 teaspoon cayenne powder
• ½ teaspoon cracked black pepper
• 1 teaspoon of thyme (optional)
• 1 teaspoon of rosemary (optional)
• The juice of one lemon (seeds removed) - keep in mind that this shortens the shelf like to about 4 weeks if kept in the fridge due to its water content so skip it if this is an issue
• ½ cup of raw honey
• 8 ounces of raw apple cider vinegar (this must have "the mother" to be most effective)

The thyme and rosemary are optional only because having full leave herbs in this blend can make it difficult to take without straining them out. They are, however, very nice to have in the recipe.

The key to making a good instant fire cider is using ingredients that are still pretty fresh. If you use ground ginger that only sees the light of day around Thanksgiving, it isn't going to be very useful.

Powdered herbs and spices lose their potency very quickly, so try to avoid using ingredients older than 6 months if possible - but I suppose something is better than nothing!

Loving Preparation - Instant Fire Cider

1. Begin by adding all the spices and raw honey to the jar.

2. Next, juice one lemon and remove the seeds since they are bitter and add the juice to the jar.

3. Next, fill the jar to the shoulder with raw apple cider vinegar.

4. Cap closed and shake well to mix.

This remedy can be used right away and will last indefinitely if you do not add fresh lemon juice. I store mine in the fridge for safe keeping and use it as needed.

For children, you can cut the dose with some apple juice to make it a bit milder but do not add apple juice to the jar itself as that will shorten its shelf life. Simply add about ½ teaspoon to a small cup and then add a splash of apple juice to help it go down easier. I recommend tasting it yourself first to ensure this isn't too spicy for your child.

To Use

Shake well, then take 1 teaspoon daily to prevent cold and flu.

If you're already sick, take 1 teaspoon 2-3 times daily to help boost immunity and fight off infection. You can, of course, take this remedy more aggressively - 1 teaspoon every half hour for a few hours, then once per hour for a few hours if desired.

You can either take the remedy straight (though it is quite spicy!) or you can make a tea by adding a dose of instant fire cider to a mug of boiling water.

You can also add this to soups, broths, beans, greens, and salads if you prefer.

This remedy will get a little stronger the longer it sits.

Have you ever made instant fire cider before? How did it turn out?

You may also enjoy reading:

The Difference Between Cold and Flu
12 Ways to Feel Better During a Cold or Flu
7 All Natural Flu Remedies for Quick Recovery
Sickroom Spray Recipe for Cold and Flu
Essential Oils for Boosting the Immune System and Fighting Cold and Flu