Each ingredient plays a specific role in supporting your body’s natural defenses:

Orange: A prime source of Vitamin C, which is essential for the production and function of white blood cells.

Ginger: Contains gingerol, a bioactive compound with powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects that can help soothe a sore throat.

Garlic: Rich in allicin, which has been shown to enhance the immune system’s response to viruses and bacteria.

Onion: Contains quercetin and sulfur compounds that act as natural expectorants, helping to clear mucus from the respiratory tract.

Cinnamon: Adds warmth and contains cinnamaldehyde, which has antimicrobial properties and helps stabilize blood sugar.

Immune-Boosting “Fire and Fruit” Wellness Tea
This recipe balances the savory punch of the garlic and onion with the sweetness of the orange and the warmth of the cinnamon.

Ingredients
1 large Orange (sliced, with the peel on for extra oils).

1 medium Onion (red or yellow, sliced).

2-inch piece of Fresh Ginger (peeled and sliced).

2-3 cloves of Garlic (crushed to release the allicin).

1-2 Cinnamon sticks.

3 cups of Water.

Optional: A tablespoon of raw honey to balance the flavors.

Instructions
Boil the Base: In a medium pot, combine the water, sliced ginger, garlic, and cinnamon sticks. Bring the mixture to a boil.

Add the Aromatics: Once boiling, add the sliced onion. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 10–15 minutes.

Add the Citrus: Place the orange slices in the pot for the last 5 minutes of simmering. This prevents the Vitamin C from being over-processed while allowing the oils from the peel to infuse.

Strain and Serve: Use a fine-mesh strainer to pour the liquid into a mug.

Sweeten: If the taste is too intense, stir in a bit of honey once the tea has cooled slightly (high heat can destroy some of the honey’s beneficial enzymes).

How to Use It
Preventative: Drink half a cup daily during the winter months to keep your immune system alert.

Symptom Relief: If you feel a “tickle” in your throat or are feeling run-down, drink 1–2 cups throughout the day.

Storage: You can store the strained tea in a glass jar in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove rather than in a microwave.