This Paleo pre-prandial apple cider vinegar tonic is a wonderful way to support digestion and balance blood sugar before meals. Apple cider vinegar has long been praised for its ability to increase stomach acid production, making it an excellent digestive aid.
Rosemary and thyme add not only flavor but also health benefits, like boosting immunity and brain function. Rosemary is known to enhance memory and focus, while thyme can support respiratory health, making this tonic particularly comforting during colder months when immune support is crucial.
RELATED: How Drinking with Meals Impacts Digestion
To fully extract the benefits of the herbs, be sure to steep the rosemary, thyme, and orange slices for a full five minutes. This allows their essential oils to infuse the water and creates a wonderfully aromatic and warm beverage. Make sure to bring the water to a rapid boil if you’re using a pan on the stove. If using a kettle, set the temperature to 200-212°F.
Sip slowly roughly 30 minutes prior to eating. In warmer months, this recipe works well when cooled and served over ice.
TIP: Autoimmune Protocol (AIP) omissions and substitutions are listed in the recipe ingredients.
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Herbal Apple Cider Vinegar Tonic
- Recipe by: Erin Rhae Biller, ND, FAIHM
- Serves: 2
- Meal: Beverage
- Serves: 2
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes
Ingredients
4 sprigs fresh rosemary
4 sprigs fresh thyme
dried orange slices
16 oz hot water
tsp raw apple cider vinegar
Directions
In two separate glasses, steep rosemary, thyme, and dried orange slices in 8 ounces hot water for about 5 minutes. Stir in apple cider vinegar.
Sip slowly before a meal.
