As winter tightens its grip, a medical professional has clarified which traditional home remedies for cold and flu can genuinely ease your symptoms and which popular beliefs are best left in the past. The advice, shared on Wednesday 17 December 2025, cuts through the noise to highlight simple, science-backed actions you can take at home.
The Power of Simple Ingredients
When it comes to that classic hot lemon and honey drink, it turns out one ingredient is doing most of the heavy lifting. Honey is the most effective component for soothing colds and reducing both the frequency and severity of coughs. This is largely due to its natural antimicrobial properties, which can help calm irritated throats.
However, the vitamin C from the lemon, while healthy, is unlikely to shorten the duration of your cold once symptoms have already begun. Doctors also advise steering clear of adding alcohol to hot drinks, such as in a traditional hot toddy. Contrary to popular belief, alcohol can disrupt sleep and place additional stress on the body, hindering recovery rather than helping it.
Hydration and Soothing Relief
One of the most crucial steps in fighting off a virus is often the simplest: staying well-hydrated. Drinking plenty of water is vital for helping the body eliminate the virus. Warm liquids, in general, provide excellent relief for sore throats, offering comfort and helping to loosen congestion.
Inhaling steam is another highly recommended tactic. Whether from a hot drink, a bowl of warm water, or a steamy shower, the moist air can help thin mucus and soothe irritated airways, making it easier to breathe. For a sore throat specifically, the NHS recommends a time-tested method: gargling with warm salt water can provide significant relief.
Comfort, Not Cures
Some remedies are more about comfort than cure. Chicken soup, for instance, is praised for providing essential hydration and warmth, which can make you feel better, but it is not a magic bullet that will kill the virus. Ultimately, one of the most powerful medicines is free and readily available: rest. Adequate rest is absolutely vital as it allows your immune system the energy and focus it needs to fight the infection and recover fully.
By focusing on these evidence-based approaches—prioritising honey for coughs, avoiding alcohol, staying hydrated, using steam, and getting plenty of rest—you can effectively manage cold and flu symptoms and support your body's natural healing process.
