Here’s the ultimate Hot Toddy recipe, Grandma’s secret remedy for colds! When it comes to battling nasty winter colds and coughs, nothing works as effectively or quickly as this Hot Toddy. The Hot Toddy, or warm whiskey, is a timeless remedy that dates back to Scotland in the 1700s. Before modern medicine and over-the-counter remedies, people would turn to a warm Hot Toddy to relieve colds and respiratory issues. And don’t worry about the whiskey—it’s important to remember that many drugstore cough syrups contain alcohol, along with ingredients you can’t even pronounce. In fact, doctors were prescribing whiskey for coughs and colds long before the advent of pharmacy medications.
INGREDIENTS
- 1 cup of hot tea (any good organic tea works, but decaffeinated is best for rest)
- 1–2 tablespoons of whiskey (Jack Daniels Honey Whiskey is a favorite, but any quality brand will do)
- 2 teaspoons of fresh lemon juice (straight from the lemon)
- 2 tablespoons of honey (raw is best, but any honey with no added ingredients is fine)
- 1 pinch of ground ginger or cinnamon (optional)
INSTRUCTIONS
- Brew your tea and let it steep for 7–10 minutes.
- Add 1–2 tablespoons of whiskey and stir.
- Mix in 2 teaspoons of fresh lemon juice and stir again.
- Add the 2 tablespoons of honey (feel free to add more if you’d like it sweeter) and stir until the honey dissolves into the liquid.
- Optional: Add a pinch of ground ginger or cinnamon for an extra kick.
- Serve immediately while still hot, and garnish with a lemon wedge.
You can enjoy this Hot Toddy home remedy 2–3 times a day and be amazed at how quickly it works.
Note: This Hot Toddy recipe is intended for adults only. While it has been used for years, discretion should be exercised for those under 21. I do not assume responsibility for its use by anyone outside of the intended adult audience.
