Ah, winter. This magical time of year is virtually synonymous with flakes, frost, and the flu. As much as we love watching fresh snowflakes falling from our window, sipping hot chocolate by the fire, and cozying up under a blanket with a good novel, having a cold can really put a damper on our winter fun.
Being stuck with a cold can be the pits, but who said the recovery process had to be a drag, too? Brew up some homemade cocktails with these cold-fighting ingredients and drink your way to feeling better in no time. Hey, we’re not promising that these drinks will cure you, but they’ll certainly make the healing process a little bit sweeter.
Ginger
According to Home Remedies, ginger is a “natural antiviral which helps to fight against illness and bacteria that causes colds.” Not only does it stimulate sweating to cleanse your immune system, it also brings your body temperature down, boosts your immune system, and is considered a natural pain/fever reducer. Basically, this is the ingredient you need around when you’re not feeling so hot. Make a Dark ‘N’ Stormy or Moscow mule for a simple, hassle-free, delicious fix of ginger.
Turmeric
This key ingredient in curry has been ranked one of the most powerful herbs in the world, thanks to its healing compound, called curcumin. Curcumin has been reported to be even more powerful than many over-the-counter medicines! Mix with citrus and tequila for a healthy, margarita-esque beverage.
Garlic
According to The Chalkboard Mag, garlic is a powerful antioxidant with antimicrobial, antiviral, and antibiotic properties. When colds arrive, garlic’s decongestant properties can provide some serious relief. So how are we putting this in a drink, you ask? Load up that Bloody Mary with crushed garlic for a seriously potent punch. The vegetable servings in tomato juice are a bonus.
Honey
One of the more obvious cold remedies, honey is packed with antimicrobial properties that fight cold and flu-like symptoms while also soothing scratchy, irritated throats. Brew yourself some tea and whip up a hot toddy for some cozy, comforting relief.
Orange Juice
As we all know, orange juice is loaded with vitamin C, an essential part of warding off colds. While more effective pre-sickness, loading up on vitamin C during the course of your cold can’t hurt, right? Head to brunch and make the most of your seasonal cold with a bubbly mimosa.
Cinnamon
Cinnamon has been classically used in Chinese medicine to combat scratchy coughs and pesky head colds. Plus, the heat from cinnamon will force your body to sweat out some of your seasonal strife. Cinnamon is an extremely versatile cocktail ingredient, though we recommend mixing with some bourbon and ginger for double cold-fighting properties.
Coconut Water
When you’re suffering from a cold, your body depletes liquids like crazy, which is why the hydrating properties of coconut water are ideal for your cold-fighting cocktail remedy. Coconut water is also chock full of antioxidants, vitamin C, calcium, and zinc — perfect for combating illness. Add the water to coconut rum with a squeeze of lime for a tropical twist to feeling better in no time!
