What Hot Drink Gets Rid of a Cold? Effective Remedies for Relief

According to research published in the journal Rhinology, a hot drink can provide immediate and lasting relief for cold symptoms. This finding helps explain why warm beverages are a popular choice to relieve symptoms.

Quick Summary

Warm beverages offer soothing relief from cold and flu symptoms. Effective options include honey-lemon water, ginger tea, and chicken broth, to hydrate the body, soothe sore throats, and ease congestion by thinning mucus.

Key Points

• Warm Liquids Offer Symptom Relief: Hot drinks help thin mucus, ease congestion, and soothe sore throats, providing immediate and sustained relief.

• Honey is a Proven Cough Suppressant: Honey’s antimicrobial properties and thick, coating texture make it an effective remedy for soothing coughs and throat irritation in adults and children over one year old.

• Lemon Provides a Vitamin Boost: Rich in Vitamin C and antioxidants, lemon supports the immune system and helps with hydration.

• Ginger is a Natural Anti-Inflammatory: With potent anti-inflammatory compounds, ginger can help reduce the pain of a sore throat and calm nausea.

• Stay Hydrated and Rest: No matter the beverage, staying well-hydrated and getting adequate rest are the most critical factors for a speedy recovery from a cold.

Why Hot Drinks Help Soothe Cold Symptoms

While no drink can cure a cold, the warmth of a hot drink can provide significant relief. Heat and steam help loosen and thin mucus, which eases congestion in the nose and chest. Additionally, the soothing effect on a sore throat is often immediate and comforting. Staying hydrated is also crucial when fighting an illness, and warm liquids can make it easier to consume enough fluids. Certain ingredients in these drinks can also offer anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immune-boosting properties.

The Power of Honey, Lemon, and Ginger

A classic trio for cold relief combines honey, lemon, and ginger. Each ingredient plays a specific role in alleviating discomfort.

• Honey: This is a natural antimicrobial and cough suppressant, particularly effective for soothing irritated airways. Its thick consistency helps coat the throat. Avoid for infants under 12 months due to botulism risk.
• Lemon: It provides antioxidant benefits from Vitamin C and bioflavonoids to support the immune system. It can help thin mucus and offers a refreshing taste.
• Ginger: It contains anti-inflammatory compounds like gingerols. It can help reduce a sore throat, has a warming effect, and may alleviate nausea.

Popular and Effective Hot Drinks for a Cold

• Herbal Teas: These are caffeine-free and soothing. Peppermint can decongest, and chamomile calms. Elderberry may reduce cold duration due to antioxidants.
• Chicken Broth or Soup: This provides fluids, electrolytes, and easily digestible nutrients. The warmth helps congestion, and ingredients may have a mild anti-inflammatory effect.
• Decaf Tea with Honey: This combines the comfort of warm tea with honey's cough-suppressing benefits without caffeine.
• Non-Alcoholic Hot Toddy: Hot water, lemon, honey, and spices like cinnamon or cloves offer comfort and hydration. Avoid alcohol because it dehydrates and suppresses the immune system.

Comparison of Hot Cold Remedies

A comparison table of different hot remedies, their benefits, key ingredients, and considerations is available on {Link: Rhinology Journal rhinologyjournal.com}.

The Role of Rest and Hydration

Proper hydration and rest are crucial for cold recovery. Warm beverages help, but resting and drinking plenty of fluids allow the immune system to fight the infection. Avoid caffeinated and alcoholic drinks.

Conclusion

Effective hot drinks offer comfort and actively help manage cold symptoms. Options like honey-lemon-ginger, herbal teas, and chicken broth provide relief. These remedies are best combined with rest and hydration.

Disclaimer: The information in this article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Consult a healthcare professional for specific medical concerns.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can drinking hot liquids really cure a cold?

No, hot liquids cannot cure a cold, which is caused by a virus. However, drinking hot beverages provides symptomatic relief by soothing a sore throat, easing congestion, and helping you stay hydrated while the body fights the infection.

Is a hot toddy an effective cold remedy?

A non-alcoholic hot toddy (hot water, honey, lemon) can be an effective remedy for soothing cold symptoms due to the benefits of honey and lemon. However, alcohol should be avoided, as it can be dehydrating and may impair immune function.

Which is better for a cold, tea or chicken broth?

Both are excellent for different reasons. Tea with added ingredients like honey and ginger is great for soothing sore throats and inflammation, while chicken broth provides essential nutrients and electrolytes, which is beneficial if you have a poor appetite.

Does green tea help with a cold?

Yes, green tea contains powerful antioxidants called catechins that have antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help support the immune system and potentially reduce symptoms like a cough.

Can I give a hot drink with honey to my infant?

No, honey should not be given to infants under 12 months old due to the risk of infant botulism. For older children, a small amount of honey in a warm drink can be a safe and effective cough suppressant.

Do hot drinks help more than cold drinks for cold symptoms?

Research, such as a 2008 study, suggests that hot drinks can provide more significant relief for various cold symptoms compared to drinks at room temperature.

Should I avoid dairy in my hot drinks when I have a cold?

No, the belief that dairy products increase mucus production is a myth. If you enjoy milky teas or hot chocolate, there is no need to avoid them when you have a cold.