What Liquor Is Good for a Cold? (7 Drinks To Soothe Cold)

There is nothing worse than being sick and having a cold. You don’t feel like doing anything, let alone drag yourself out of bed to go about your day.

But what can you do to make yourself feel better? Some people swear by chicken soup, while others turn to medication.

But what about alcohol? Are there any liquors that are good for a cold?

Whisky or brandy in a Hot Toddy cocktail might be a good option if you want something to help you sleep. Gin or vodka with juice may help relieve congestion. If you’re looking to take the edge off, mulled wine, sangria, or hot chocolate with a shot of tequila will do.

We have narrowed it down to the best liquors for a cold, depending on your needs. So pick your poison, and hopefully, you’ll be feeling better in no time.

The Science Behind It All

There is some science to back up the idea that alcohol can help a cold. Drinking alcohol can help thin out mucus, making breathing easier. It can also help to relieve pain and lower your body temperature temporarily.

However, it’s important to remember that alcohol is a diuretic, which means it will make you urinate more. This can lead to dehydration, which is the last thing you need when you’re already feeling under the weather.

So if you decide to drink alcohol when you have a cold, drink plenty of water. And if a fever accompanies your cold, then it’s best to avoid alcohol altogether.

Best Liquors If You’re Having a Cold

Depending on what you’re looking for, some liquors will be better than others for relieving cold symptoms.

1. Hot Toddy

The hot toddy is a classic drink for when you’re feeling under the weather. The Hot toddy has long been touted as a remedy for the common cold.

It’s warm, comforting, and has a good kick to help you feel better. The combination of whisky (or brandy), honey, and lemon help to soothe a sore throat and ease congestion.

The whisky will help you relax and hopefully get a good night’s sleep.

You can add a bit of ginger to the mix if you want something to help with nausea. Be careful not to make it too strong, as the alcohol can dehydrate you.

2. Gin and Citrus Juice

Gin is a great liquor for when you have a cold. The juniper in gin can help relieve congestion, and the citrus will help to break up mucus.

This drink is also great if you want something to help a sore throat. The juice will help to soothe your throat, and the gin will numb the pain.

Just be sure to use fresh juice, as the juice’s vitamin C will help boost your immune system. And make sure to use good quality gin, as the cheaper brands can sometimes be harsh on a sore throat.

3. Vodka Cranberry

This classic drink is not only delicious, but it’s also great for a cold.

The cranberry juice will help to break up mucus, and the vodka will help to relieve congestion. Cranberry juice contains antioxidants and vitamin C, which can help boost your immune system.

Just be sure to use fresh or frozen cranberries, as canned cranberry juice is usually loaded with sugar. And as always, be sure to drink responsibly.

4. Irish Coffee

This warming drink is perfect for a cold winter’s night.

The coffee will help to wake you up, and the Irish whiskey will help to warm you from the inside out. Plus, the sugar in the drink will help to fight off fatigue.

Make sure to use good quality Irish whiskey, as the cheaper brands can sometimes be harsh. And be careful not to make the coffee too strong, as the caffeine can dehydrate you.

5. Hot Chocolate with a Shot of Tequila

This rich and creamy drink is perfect for when you’re feeling under the weather.

The hot chocolate will help to soothe your throat, and the tequila will help to wake you up. Plus, the sugar in the drink will help to fight off fatigue.

Use good quality dark chocolate, as the cheaper brands can sometimes be watered down. Additionally, take care not to over-strengthen the tequila because the alcohol might cause dehydration.

6. Mulled Wine

Mulled wine is a great winter drink, and it’s also great for a cold.

The drink’s warmth will help ease congestion, and the spices will help clear your sinuses. Plus, the wine is full of antioxidants, which can help to boost your immune system.

7. Sangria

This fruity drink is perfect for when you’re feeling under the weather.

The sangria’s citrus will help break up mucus, and the wine will help boost your immune system. Plus, the fruit in the drink will provide you with a much-needed dose of vitamins.

Use only high-quality wine, as lower varieties might occasionally be too harsh. As the sugar in the sangria can dry you, take care not to make it excessively sugary.

Takeaway

Many different drinks can help you feel better when you’re sick. Just be sure to drink responsibly, as alcohol can dehydrate you.

And if you’re looking for something to help boost your immune system, choose a drink high in antioxidants. The above seven drinks are all great choices when you’re under the weather.

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