Herbalism is a health practice that can be traced around the globe for millennia. For most of our existence as a species, humans have lived closely with nature relying on the Earth for shelter, food, and medicine. While time-tested methods for making and consuming herbal preparations have carried through the ages, some herbal preparations have evolved to fit the needs of the modern population—like the ease of taking capsules. However, one ancient preparation involving the soaking of herbs in wine or cider has managed to stand the test of time, although it is perhaps a little under the radar.

Mulling involves the infusion of spice, usually through heat, into wine, beer, or cider. In ancient Greece, herbs were traditionally soaked in wine for a period of time as a potent medicine-making method. Not only did this help to disguise the flavor of ‘less than desirable’ wine but it also added healthful benefits. While the practice of infusing spices into beverages is still alive and well in today’s culture, it is typically a part of festivities and often around the holiday season.

Savoring a warm mug of mulled cider or mulled wine for sheer delight is wonderful, but why not incorporate the benefits of adding wellness-supporting herbs to the brew as well? This recipe includes traditional warming spices such as cinnamon, allspice, and cloves with the botanical boost of elderberries and astragalus to support the body’s immune defenses.*

Comforting, delicious, and healthful, this mulled cider recipe is a great companion for fireside chats and celebratory gatherings. Here’s to you and your health this cool weather season—Salud!

Mulled Cider Recipe for Immune Support

Makes about 4 cups. 

Ingredients

• 4 cups organic apple cider
• 1/8 cup organic elderberries
• 4 organic cassia cinnamon sticks, broken in half
• 1 Tbsp. organic dried lemon peel
• 1 Tbsp. organic astragalus root
• 1/2 Tbsp. organic allspice
• 3/4 tsp. organic whole cloves
• 3 Tbsp. organic maple syrup
• Garnish: Organic cassia cinnamon stick, orange slices, and an extra dash of maple syrup

Directions

1. Combine all ingredients except garnish in a heavy-bottomed pot on the stove. Cover, and bring to a simmer. Adjust heat to maintain a gentle simmer for 30 minutes.
2. Strain into a mug and serve warm. Garnish with an organic cassia cinnamon stick, organic orange slice, and/or an extra dash of organic maple syrup.

Pro Tips

1. Extra mulled apple cider will keep in the fridge for a couple of days. Simply reheat on the stove and enjoy.
2. Play around with substituting or adding your favorite autumnal spices such as organic nutmeg and organic star anise.
3. For mulled apple cider made simple, add 3 Tbsp. of Mountain Rose Herbs’ organic mulling spice mix to 4 cups of apple cider and follow the directions above.

Looking FOR MORE IMMUNE SUPPORTing recipes?

Learn How to Make Elderberry Syrup With Dr. Low Dog!

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3 Apple Cider-Inspired Mocktails for Fall
Adaptogenic Astragalus Chai Recipe
Quick Fire Cider Recipe with Common Kitchen Spices