Can Whiskey Help With a Cold? What Science (and Common Sense) Really Say
At Root Out, we’ve heard it all — “Take a shot of whiskey and you’ll feel better in no time.” It’s one of those timeless pieces of advice passed down like an old recipe, whispered across generations, usually followed by a sniffly grin and a raised glass.
But can whiskey really help with a cold? Or is that comforting pour doing more harm than good? Let’s break down the truth, no myths attached.
Why People Think Whiskey Helps
The roots of this belief go way back. Before modern medicine, whiskey was used as a natural remedy to treat colds, coughs, and even infections. It was believed to:
-Soothe sore throats due to its numbing effect.
-Promote sleep because of its sedative properties.
-Ease congestion by dilating blood vessels and improving airflow.
That’s how the Hot Toddy was born — whiskey, honey, lemon, and hot water — a warm, comforting mix that’s been dubbed “liquid medicine” for centuries.
The Temporary Benefits (and Why They Don’t Last)
A small amount of whiskey can offer short-term relief for a few reasons:
-Relaxation: It helps calm you down, making it easier to rest.
-Pain relief: Alcohol has a mild numbing effect that can make sore throats feel better.
-Warmth & comfort: A warm drink can temporarily soothe irritation and provide emotional comfort when you’re feeling under the weather.
But those effects fade fast — and what’s left can actually slow your recovery.
The Downside: How Whiskey Can Make a Cold Worse
Here’s the part most people skip. While a little sip might feel nice, alcohol and illness are not great drinking buddies. Here’s why:
1. Dehydration:
Alcohol is a diuretic — it makes your body lose water faster. When you’re sick, hydration is key to thinning mucus, keeping your throat moist, and helping your body recover. Even one or two drinks can make dehydration worse.
2. Weakened Immune Response:
Studies show alcohol can temporarily suppress immune function. Your white blood cells — the body’s defense team — become less effective at fighting off infections. So while you’re sipping whiskey hoping for relief, your immune system might actually be slowing down.
3. Irritation of the Throat & Sinuses:
Whiskey’s alcohol content can dry out mucous membranes and irritate inflamed tissue. If your throat is already sore or raw from coughing, alcohol may intensify the burn rather than soothe it.
4. Interference with Medications:
Mixing whiskey with cold medicine is a big no. Common ingredients like acetaminophen (Tylenol) or antihistamines can react poorly with alcohol, leading to drowsiness, liver strain, or other side effects.
5. Sleep Disruption:
Sure, whiskey can make you sleepy — but it doesn’t lead to quality rest. Alcohol disrupts REM sleep, leaving you more tired and less recovered the next day.
So, Is There Any Safe Way to Enjoy It?
If you’re going to enjoy whiskey while you’re under the weather, moderation is everything. We’re talking a small pour — maybe a single ounce mixed into a warm Hot Toddy — and plenty of water afterward.
The comfort you feel isn’t necessarily from healing properties, but from the warmth, flavor, and calm it brings. And that’s perfectly fine — comfort is still part of feeling better.
Root Out’s Remedy: The Modern Hot Toddy
If you do indulge, make it count — and make it delicious.
Ingredients:
-1½ oz Root Out Whiskey
-1 tbsp honey
-½ oz lemon juice
-4 oz hot water
Dash of cinnamon or ginger (optional)
Instructions:
Combine ingredients in a mug, stir until honey dissolves, and sip slowly. The natural vanilla and sassafras in Root Out pair perfectly with honey and citrus for a smooth, nostalgic twist.
Bottom Line: Comfort, Not Cure
A small pour of whiskey might ease the edge of a cold for a moment, but it’s not a cure — and too much can make things worse. Use it for comfort, not treatment. Pair it with hydration, rest, and real care.
At Root Out, we believe whiskey should lift your spirit — not replace your medicine cabinet.
⚠️ Disclaimer:
This article is for informational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult a licensed healthcare professional before using alcohol or any home remedy for illness.
