Classic Hot Toddy

    When I was a boy, my mom used to give me a Hot Toddy whenever I came down with a cold or the flu. Now, before we all roll our eyes and exclaim the travesty of giving a minor child alcohol, let's have a look at what exactly is in a Hot Toddy.

    The first ingredient is water. Water helps with a cold or flu by flushing out mucus, keeping your body hydrated to support immune function, and replenishing fluids lost through fever or increased breathing. Staying hydrated also helps your kidneys filter waste and can soothe a sore throat.

    The next ingredient we have is Whiskey. How many of you are aware that Whiskey originated in Scotland? The word "Whiskey" is actually an English corruption of the Scottish Gaelic name for this drink, called uisge-beatha, which translates literally to "Water of Life." Whiskey contains, of course, alcohol, which can dilate blood vessels. The dilated blood vessels help improve blood flow to the nasal passages and reduce congestion. Whiskey contains antioxidants, such as ellagic acid, which may have immune-boosting effects. Alcohol can act as a mild analgesic, potentially reducing pain and discomfort associated with colds. It also helps you sleep, giving your body the rest it desperately needs to fight off that cold or flu.

    Then we have Honey. Honey is a natural demulcent that can ease irritation and reduce inflammation in a sore throat. Studies suggest that Honey can be more effective than over-the-counter cough suppressants at reducing cough frequency and severity, especially at night. Honey has natural antibacterial properties that can help fight infections, and it is a source of antioxidants, which are beneficial for overall health and immune support.

    A Hot Toddy must have lemon. Hot liquids, such as warm lemon water, help thin mucus and loosen congestion. Combining lemon with Honey in a hot drink can soothe a sore throat, and the vitamin C may help with healing. While it won't prevent a cold, the vitamin C in lemons may slightly shorten the duration of symptoms and support the immune system. Lemon juice also has some antibacterial properties that may help with throat irritation.

    The last ingredient in our Hot Toddy is cinnamon. Cinnamon helps loosen mucus, making it easier to cough up and clear your airways. Its warming properties can help soothe an irritated throat. Cinnamon contains compounds that help fight off bacteria and viruses. The antioxidant compounds in cinnamon can help reduce inflammation in the body.

    So, we might find that our mothers and grandmothers knew what they were doing when they lovingly made us that wonderful, piping-hot cup of Hot Toddy when we came down with a nasty cold or flu.

Here is what you will need:

Ingredients

¾ cup water

1 ½ ounces whiskey (Jameson Whiskey is best for this drink)

3 teaspoons honey

3 teaspoons lemon juice

1 lemon round

1 cinnamon stick

Here are the instructions on how to make your Hot Toddy:

    In a tea kettle or small saucepan, bring the water to a simmer. Pour the hot water into a mug. Add the whiskey, 3 teaspoons of honey, and 3 teaspoons of lemon juice. Stir until the honey has disappeared into the hot water. Taste, and add 1 teaspoon of honey for more sweetness, and/or 1 teaspoon more lemon juice for more zing. Garnish with a lemon round and cinnamon stick. Enjoy your good health!