During the winter months, our immune systems can be put to the test. Sore throats, cold snaps and minor colds are common in winter, and it can be useful to know how to combat the first symptoms of these ailments. Among grandmother's remedies, grog remains a timeless favourite. Sometimes with lemon, sometimes with camomile or thyme, these hot drinks are still the talk of the town. But are these infusions really effective against sore throats and other drops in the immune system? Here's a closer look at the benefits of toddy.

What is a toddy?

A toddy is the name given to a type of infusion generally made with honey, lemon juice, cinnamon, rum and, of course, boiling water.

Invented by Edward Vernon, an 18th-century English admiral nicknamed the old toddy, the herbal tea was not originally intended to be used for medicinal purposes, but simply consisted of hot water and rum. So why such a mixture? Quite simply because Vernon felt that his sailors were abusing the pure rum and neglecting their duties on the ship. So he decided to cut the rum with water to reduce its effects.

In use, this mixture was found to be highly effective against colds and chills, and was then perfected with half a lemon, a tablespoon of honey and various spices such as cloves and thyme. These natural remedies, well known for their antiseptic properties, gave rise to the toddy we still know today.

Is grog effective?

The active ingredients in these herbal teas are ideal for relieving the first symptoms of winter ailments. The vitamin C in lemons helps the immune system fight off illnesses, the antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties of honey kill germs and revitalise the body, while cinnamon stimulates the body's natural defences thanks to its antiviral and antimicrobial properties. But it's the hot water that makes this decoction so powerful. The high temperature of the drink weakens the virus and makes the body sweat to eliminate toxins.

Should I add rum?

Rum, like all other alcohols of this type, provides extra warmth to the body and has decongestant properties, meaning that it dilates blood vessels and thus helps mucous membranes to fight infection. However, it is essential not to overdo it, as large doses of alcohol can be harmful to your health.

So there's no need to overdo the good stuff! One toddy a day is more than enough to help your body beat germs.

Recipe for a good toddy

Want to try this grandmother's remedy for a sore throat or runny nose? Here's how to prepare this famous natural remedy.

In a cup, mix :

• 2 teaspoons thyme honey
• juice of half a lemon
• 5 cl rum
• 25 cl warm water

If you wish, you can add :

• A pinch of cinnamon
• Ginger

Leave to infuse and enjoy!