Fire Cider: Is it worth the hype?

Details: Category: Region 9; Published: 29 September 2022

Fire cider is a tonic containing many spicy ingredients. It is an alternative medicine, according to supporters, that may offer a variety of potential health advantages, including enhancing wellbeing and boosting immunity, as reported by Rachel Ann Tee-Melegrito of Medical News Today. Due to the numerous alleged health advantages of fire cider, some individuals may think about trying it. Further, some people might just like the flavor and drink it or use it as a dressing. Although fire cider does include a number of substances that may have health advantages, these claims have not yet been supported by a study. More and more individuals are searching for natural therapies that will boost their immune systems and keep them healthy as preventative health becomes more and more popular. According to Katey Davidson of Healthline, fire cider is a well-liked yet divisive tonic. Despite the fact that critics claim it is little more than a spicy mixture, it is used in alternative medicine to strengthen immunity and combat colds.

A form of oxymel, which is an herbal treatment, is fire cider. The word oxymel, which means both acid and honey in ancient Greek, is where it gets its name. Rosemary Gladstar, a folk herbalist and the creator of the California School of Herbal Studies, invented the phrase "fire cider" and its specific recipe in the late 1970s. Honey, apple cider vinegar (ACV), and a number of other elements in the tonic may enhance overall health and fitness. Its ingredients vary widely because it is a traditional dish. However, all fire cider recipes normally required the addition of five other fundamental ingredients in addition to ACV and honey: horseradish, ginger, chili peppers, garlic, and onions. Additional ingredients can be added, including herbs, citrus, and turmeric.

People drink fire cider mostly to build a strong immune system. Although supporters of the tonic assert that it can strengthen your immune system, this isn't realistic or even desired. In fact, according to research by Jean S. Marshall and colleagues, immune system overactivity is a marker of disease rather than good health. Instead, concentrate on maintaining a strong immune system through dietary changes and other lifestyle choices. The use of ginger as a safe and efficient treatment for nausea, vomiting, and stomach discomfort was also mentioned by Katey Davidson. Additionally, it might enhance intestinal motility and gastric emptying, which refers to how quickly food leaves your stomach. As a result, pain and feelings of fullness might be lessened. However, in human studies, apple cider vinegar has not been found to enhance digestion. There is minimal evidence to support the theory that eating vinegar before a meal promotes the production of stomach acid and digestive enzymes.

There is no information to suggest that drinking fire cider has any health advantages, and there are no known concerns either. However, some of its ingredients may have negative side effects. Because ACV is so acidic, it could irritate the stomach or exacerbate acid reflux. The American Dental Association also warns that frequent exposure to foods that are acidic, like ACV, can wear down the enamel on teeth, causing sensitivity and cavities. Taking turmeric may result in nausea, diarrhea, or upset stomach. A fetus or young kid may be harmed by the bacteria and poisons that unpasteurized honey may contain. People who have digestive or metabolic diseases, are pregnant, are breastfeeding, or are on drugs should speak to a doctor before ingesting fire cider to ensure it is healthy for them.

A hot tonic called "fire cider" is marketed to boost immunity, lessen cold symptoms, and help with a variety of other health problems. The use of its constituents as a natural immune system booster is supported by some data, despite the numerous claims to the contrary, and further study is required. The tonic has no obvious advantages or disadvantages. You can consume it as a beverage or tea or use it as a flavoring agent in recipes. However, when consumed alone, its high acidity may cause tongue and throat irritation and eventually erode tooth enamel. There shouldn't be any harm in trying fire cider if you want to spice up your life.

ZDN DMO II Marie-Claire Gaas, RND

References: