When you’re feeling under the weather, it can be difficult to know if you have a cold or the flu. Although they share many similar symptoms, they are distinct illnesses caused by different viruses.

Symptoms such as coughing, congestion, and sore throat can be addressed with home remedies and over-the-counter medicines. Additionally, drinking certain beverages can help ease your symptoms and speed up recovery. Here are some drinks to try when you have a cold or the flu.

1. Ginger Tea

Ginger has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which make it an excellent ingredient to combat cold and flu symptoms.

How to make ginger tea:.

1. Peel and chop a 1-inch piece of ginger root.
2. Bring a cup of water to boil in a pot.
3. Add the ginger to the boiling water and simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Remove from heat, strain, and add honey or lemon if desired.

2. Hot Lemon Water

Lemons are rich in vitamin C, which may reduce the severity and duration of cold and flu symptoms. Drinking hot lemon water can also help soothe a sore throat.

How to make hot lemon water:.

1. Boil a cup of water in a pot.
2. Cut a lemon in half and squeeze the juice into the water.
3. Optionally, add honey or ginger for additional flavor and health benefits.

3. Turmeric Milk

Turmeric has natural anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, which can help you feel better when you’re sick. Consuming turmeric in the form of a warm milk drink can soothe a sore throat, improve digestion, and even help you sleep.

How to make turmeric milk:.

1. Heat a cup of milk in a pot.
2. Whisk in a teaspoon of turmeric powder.
3. Add honey or cinnamon to taste.
4. Enjoy while hot.

4. Chicken Soup

Chicken soup is a classic remedy for colds and flu, and for good reason. The warm broth can soothe a sore throat and provide hydration, while the chicken contains cysteine, an amino acid that may thin mucus and improve coughing.

How to make chicken soup:.

1. Heat some olive oil in a pot.
2. Add chopped onion, celery, and carrots and sauté until softened.
3. Add chicken broth and bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat and add cooked chicken.
5. Simmer until heated through and serve hot.

5. Peppermint Tea

Peppermint tea is well-known for its soothing qualities for the digestive system and also has beneficial effects on respiratory issues. Drinking peppermint tea can help relieve a sore throat, cough, and congestion.

How to make peppermint tea:.

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1. Bring a cup of water to boil in a pot.
2. Add one peppermint tea bag or a teaspoon of dried peppermint leaves.
3. Allow the tea to steep for 5-10 minutes.
4. Add honey if desired and enjoy.

6. Honey and Lemon Water

Combining honey and lemon is an effective way to relieve sore throat and cough symptoms.

How to make honey and lemon water:.

1. Boil a cup of water in a pot.
2. Add 1-2 teaspoons of honey and 1-2 teaspoons of lemon juice.
3. Stir well and drink while hot.

7. Herbal Tea Blends

Herbal teas are a great way to relieve cold and flu symptoms. Some of the most effective herbs for this purpose include echinacea, elderberry, and chamomile.

How to make an herbal tea blend:.

1. Select your preferred herbs and place them in a tea infuser or pot.
2. Boil a cup of water in a separate pot.
3. Pour the water over the herb mixture and let it steep for 5-10 minutes.
4. Remove the herbs and enjoy your tea hot. Add honey or lemon if desired.

8. Apple Cider Vinegar Drink

Apple cider vinegar has natural antibacterial and immune-boosting properties, making it an effective drink for combating colds and flu. Combining it with honey and warm water can also soothe a sore throat.

How to make an apple cider vinegar drink:.

1. Mix 1-2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar with 1-2 tablespoons of honey in a cup.
2. Add hot water and stir well. Optional to add lemon or ginger.
3. Drink while hot.

9. Vegetable Soup

Like chicken soup, vegetable soup is a great way to stay hydrated and get essential vitamins when you’re feeling under the weather.

How to make vegetable soup:.

1. Heat some olive oil in a pot.
2. Add chopped onion, celery, and garlic and sauté until softened.
3. Add chopped vegetables of your choice such as carrots, zucchini, and tomatoes.
4. Add vegetable broth and bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat and simmer until vegetables are tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste and serve hot.

10. Water

Staying hydrated is crucial when you have a cold or flu. Drinking water regularly can help thin mucus and flush away germs.

How to stay hydrated:.

1. Drink at least 8-10 glasses of water per day.
2. Drink warm or hot water to soothe a sore throat.
3. Avoid sugary drinks or caffeinated beverages, which can dehydrate you.

There you have it – 10 drinks to try when you have a cold or flu. Remember that staying hydrated and getting plenty of rest is crucial for recovery. If your symptoms persist or worsen, see your doctor.