A hot toddy is a classic cold weather drink that some believe can help relieve cold and flu symptoms. This warm, whiskey-based beverage has been around for centuries as a soothing remedy. But does it really work? Let’s take a closer look at what a hot toddy is, its potential benefits, and whether science supports using it to treat colds and flu.
What is a hot toddy?
A hot toddy is a hot drink made with liquor, water, honey and spices. Traditional recipes call for:
- 2 ounces liquor (usually whiskey, brandy, or rum)
- 8 ounces hot water
- 1-2 teaspoons honey
- 1 slice of lemon
- 1-2 cloves, cinnamon stick or tea bag
The ingredients are combined in a mug or heatproof glass and topped with the lemon slice. Popular variations include using apple cider instead of water or adding black tea.
The origins of the hot toddy likely trace back to Scotland and Ireland in the 1700s. Malted whiskey and honey were plentiful in these regions and served as the main ingredients in early toddy recipes. The hot drink was savored for its soothing warmth and believed to have medicinal benefits.
What are the proposed benefits?
There are several proposed ways a hot toddy might relieve cold and flu symptoms:
- Warming effect – The hot liquid may temporarily ease sore throat pain and congestion by warming the throat.
- Honey – Honey is a natural cough suppressant due to its viscosity and soothing effects.
- Alcohol – The alcohol may cause vasodilation (widening of blood vessels) under the nose to open nasal passages.
- Drowsiness – The drink’s warmth and alcohol content may promote sleep.
- Increased fluid intake – Hot liquids can help keep you hydrated if you have a decreased appetite.
- Placebo effect – Believing the drink will help you feel better may actually improve some symptoms.
A hot toddy is therefore thought to act as a comforting decongestant, cough suppressant, sleep aid and hydrator.
Does science support it as a cold remedy?
There’s limited scientific research specifically on hot toddies for colds and flu. However, some studies have looked at the potential benefits of key ingredients:
Honey
- Multiple studies show honey can reduce cough frequency and severity in children.
- One study found honey was as effective as diphenhydramine (Benadryl) for relieving children’s nocturnal cough and allowing sleep.
- Researchers believe honey coats and soothes the throat and has antioxidant and antimicrobial effects.
Alcohol
- One study found wine in moderation may reduce risk of the common cold.
- However, another study found a weakened immune response after drinking large amounts of alcohol.
- More research is needed on whether small amounts of alcohol like in a hot toddy could help cold symptoms.
Warm liquids
- Drinking warm liquids improves nasal mucus flow compared to room temperature liquids, which may temporarily relieve congestion.
- One study found chicken soup with hot water vapor modestly improved some cold symptoms including congestion.
While the evidence for hot toddies specifically is lacking, the ingredients show some promise for temporarily alleviating cold and flu misery. However, alcohol should be avoided in people with certain medical conditions or those taking medications that interact with alcohol.
Are there downsides to hot toddies?
Some potential concerns with hot toddies for colds include:
- Alcohol – Alcohol can interact with many medications and worsen some medical conditions. Pregnant women should avoid alcohol.
- Dehydration – Alcohol and breathing hot vapors can increase fluid loss.
- Scalding – Hot liquids can burn your mouth and throat if consumed too quickly.
- Drowsiness – Alcohol and warm milk/tea may make you drowsy. Avoid driving or operating machinery after drinking.
- Added sugar – Premade mixes and syrups add extra sugar without benefits.
To reduce risks, the Food and Drug Administration recommends no more than one alcoholic drink per day for women and two for men. Toddies should be avoided in people with alcohol use disorder, liver disease, sleep apnea, breathing problems, or certain infections.
Recipe and preparation tips
If you want to whip up a hot toddy when you’re feeling under the weather, here are some tips:
- Use a high-quality liquor like Scotch or Bourbon whiskey, brandy or rum.
- Specify “hot” not “boiling” water to avoid scalding.
- Add lemon, cinnamon and cloves to enhance flavor and health benefits.
- Stir in honey until fully dissolved.
- Drink slowly to avoid scalding your mouth.
- Stay hydrated by sipping water in between hot toddies.
- Refrigerate leftover lemon slices to retain vitamin C.
- Look for single-serving packets or make your own mix ahead if desired.
Here is one recipe for a classic hot whiskey toddy:
Classic Hot Whiskey Toddy
- 2 ounces (1/4 cup) whiskey
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 4 ounces hot water
- 1 lemon wedge
- 1 cinnamon stick
- Add honey to a mug and pour in hot water.
- Stir until honey dissolves.
- Add whiskey and stir again.
- Squeeze lemon wedge over drink and drop it in.
- Add cinnamon stick to garnish.
- Serve immediately and sip slowly.
The bottom line
Here’s a quick summary of the key points about hot toddies and colds:
| Potential benefits | Potential risks |
|---|---|
| – Temporarily warm and soothe sore throat | – Alcohol interactions with medications |
| – Suppress cough due to honey | – Dehydration from alcohol and hot liquids |
| – Relieve congestion by dilating blood vessels | – Scalding injuries |
| – Promote sleep | – Drowsiness affecting activities |
| – Provide hydration | – Added sugars without benefits |
| – Placebo effect |
While hot toddies may temporarily ease some cold and flu symptoms, they are not a cure. Plenty of rest, fluids and over-the-counter medications can also provide relief without the risks of alcohol. But for some adults, a hot whiskey toddy’s warmth and soothing effects are reason enough to fix one when they’re feeling under the weather.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make a hot toddy with tea?
Yes, you can substitute black tea for the hot water in a hot toddy recipe. The tea provides added flavor and health benefits from compounds like polyphenols and amino acids. Just steep 1-2 teabags in hot water for 3-5 minutes before adding the other ingredients.
Is rum a good liquor for hot toddies?
Dark rums like spiced or black rum make excellent options for hot toddies. The rich, warm flavors pair nicely with lemon, honey and spices. White rum can also be used but may have a lighter flavor profile. Avoid using artificial flavored rums.
Can I make a non-alcoholic hot toddy?
Yes, you can make virgin or kid-friendly hot toddies by omitting the liquor. Substitute with hot water, apple juice or cider. You can even use doomed fruit teas. Add extra honey and lemon to enhance the flavor. Decaf black tea also works well for non-alcoholic toddies.
Should you drink hot toddies when sick?
Hot toddies are generally safe when you’re sick as long as you avoid alcohol if taking medications that interact with it. The warm liquids and honey can temporarily help soothe sore throats, coughs and congestion. Drink in moderation and stay hydrated with other fluids too.
Do hot toddies work for sinus infections?
Hot toddies won’t cure a sinus infection, but the steam, alcohol and honey may help temporarily relieve congestion. A stuffy nose from colds or allergies may also benefit. However, severe or chronic sinus infections require antibiotics. See your doctor if symptoms don’t improve.
Closing Thoughts
Hot toddies have been cherished for centuries as a comforting homemade remedy for colds and flu. While medical evidence is lacking, many swear by their soothing, decongesting effects. If prepared properly, hot toddies can be enjoyed safely by most healthy adults in moderation. They provide a pleasant way to get warm liquids, honey and restorative rest. Just be cautious of scalding, alcohol interactions and overuse. With sensible precautions, a hot whiskey toddy remains a cozy cure-all when you’re feeling under the weather.