Whiskey Might Help Relieve Cold Symptoms

With much of the country under piles of snow and in the grip of cold and flu season, it is a bit of good news to hear that the grandmas of the world were right: A bit of whiskey really is the best cold medicine.

According to The Huffington Post, the hot toddy is an effective way to relieve cold symptoms. The cocktail, which is served hot, is a combination of whiskey, lemon juice, honey, and hot water. Taken together, those ingredients can help aid nasal decongestion, and it's as warm and comforting as chicken noodle soup.

"The alcohol dilates blood vessels a little bit, and that makes it easier for your mucus membranes to deal with the infection," said Dr. William Schaffner, chair of preventive medicine at Vanderbilt University Medical Center.

While the hot toddy might not be quite as effective as over-the-counter cold medicine, it is certainly better tasting. So if you're feeling a bit under the weather, or if it's just cold in your area and you have a couple lemons to kill, check out our best hot toddy recipes for some good ways to pass the evening.