Parting the Mists

To nonherbalists, this card’s description with so much emphasis on fire cider may seem odd. It is not. A few years ago, four herbalists went to federal court to prevent a company from trademarking the term “fire cider,” which is a loose recipe that has been around since the 1970s. I make this brew every autumn in preparation for cold and flu season – and let me tell you that the suggestion to boost your boldness with a shot of this stuff every morning is on point! It’s a strong and spicy concoction that will open up the sinuses and boost the circulation. But this is just one example of how we have and can reclaim traditions for our modern lives. How will you defend the grandmothers’ teachings? Just a quick note that tomorrow begins my tradition of using the Halloween Oracle all through October, though this year I might occasionally reach for the Tarot Familiars.

Blessings!

Adelita of Fire – Cayenne

Dare to take a risk – be bold; defend the integrity of the grandmothers’ teachings; heat erupts, then heals

A young woman makes a spice vinegar called fire cider. She gathers ingredients: garlic, onion, horseradish, ginger, rosemary, thyme, cayenne, and vinegar. She grips the side of a molcajete with one hand while crushing peppers with the other. The golden winters sun casts a divine glow on her workspace.

Meaning: The Adelita of Fire fiercely defends her passion and her rights. Like the warm, stimulating medicine of cayenne pepper, she is bold and relentless in her advocacy. She vows to protect folk traditions. She know that access to this ancient remedy may be threatened. She is determined to honor the ancestors by keeping the people’s medicine available to all. She is inspired by countless teachers who have freely shared information with her as she has learned about herbal medicine. She fights for the integrity of the community by passing on what has been given to her. She inspires others to follow her lead.

Crafting with the Adelita of Fire

• Stand up to corporate greed: craft your own fire cider.

• Empower others: host a community fire cider-making party in your home.

• Boost your boldness: begin each day with a shot of fire cider.

The Herbcrafter’s Tarot by author Latisha Guthrie and artist Joanna Colbert Powell