Four Thieves' Vinegar

This is perfect to have in the house at this time of year, to help fight off colds and 'flu'.

Four Thieves' vinegar

There are many versions, of the recipe and the myth. It is said that four thieves were arrested in France for stealing from the sick during the plague. They handed over their recipe for the medicinal vinegar that kept them healthy, in exchange for their life and freedom.

The essential ingredients are vinegar and crushed garlic, but the other ingredients vary depending on what is to hand.

Place equal amounts of garlic, and 4 or 5 aromatic dried herbs and/or spices in a jar (eg. rosemary, sage, mint, cinnamon) with a smaller quantity of cayenne (chilli) (optional).

Cover with red wine vinegar or cider vinegar. Replace the lid.

Keep somewhere cool and dark. Gently shake every couple of days.

Strain and bottle after 2-3 weeks.

Take 1 tsp regularly throughout the day to fight a cold (can also be used as a salad dressing or topically when you need a skin antiseptic).