When the colder, darker months envelop us and colds and ’flus start going around, fire cider is a wonderful remedy to have on hand. Fire cider is a warming, immune-stimulating, virus-fighting blend of herbs extracted into an apple cider vinegar base.

There are alternate names and closely related tonics, too, like cyclone cider and thieves’ vinegar. And fire cider itself morphs from herbalist to herbalist and season to season, adding and subtracting ingredients depending on availability and taste. This allows for tons of creativity!

Studies show that the specific bioflavonoids in organic elderberry extract may actually help to stop viruses from entering our cells. Combined with all the other beneficial biochemicals in elderberry, the elder tree gives us berries that are not only antiviral, but also nutritive, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory.

Mushroom soup as it should be – rich, indulgent, and full of earthy flavor.

I make this soup a little differently to ensure I am getting in a ton of nutrient benefits - using bone broth as well as culinary herbs. - Feel free to use what herbs you enjoy - you can also add cream at the end also if you like. 

French chefs have a term fonds de cuisine, which translates “the foundation and working capital of the kitchen.” Bone and meat stock provide just that, the foundation of both the kitchen and ultimately one’s physical health.

One of the most common questions that those individuals embarking upon the the journey of gut health have is:

“Do I make stock or broth?”

What is the difference between the two?

Meat stock, is especially rich in gelatin and free amino acids like proline and glycine. These amino acids, along with the gelatinous protein from the meat and connective tissue, are particularly beneficial in healing the connective tissue in the lining of the gut.

A rich warming chocolaty mug of comfort:

Elderberry: One of the Most Important Herbs You Can Use During the Cold & Flu Season

Sambucus nigra (Blue or Black Elderberry) is one of my favorite antiviral herbal remedies to have on hand. I personally keep it with me 24/7 and take it whenever I travel or if I feel as though I’m becoming sick. Not only does this powerful botanical help to reduce the length and severity of illness, it also can help protect you from getting the flu in the first place. It’s safe for use by children and the ripe berries can be made into a tincture, syrup, wine, or cordial.