Is it true that there are health benefits of bourbon? Is bourbon good for you? Does a hot toddy help the flu or cold? These are questions that you should ask the pharmacist.
A hot toddy is a classic winter beverage made with hot water, honey, lemon, and bourbon. While we often think of bourbon as an indulgence, there are several health benefits of bourbon that you may not be aware of!
In this blog post, your pharmacist shares the traditional hot toddy recipe with ingredients and discusses the various health benefits of bourbon that make it an ideal winter drink.
The history of the hot toddy
The hot toddy has been a popular beverage for centuries, with recipes dating back to the 1700s. Originating in Scotland and Ireland, the hot toddy is traditionally made with whiskey, honey, lemon juice, and hot water. Some variations also include tea, spices, or other liqueurs.
The hot toddy was initially intended as a remedy for the common cold. People believed that the drink’s heat helped open the airways and that the alcohol acted as an antiseptic. The honey was thought to soothe the throat and help fight infection.
While the effectiveness of these medicinal properties has yet to be scientifically proven, the hot toddy remains a popular drink and home remedy to this day.
No matter which variation you decide to make, selecting the right type of whiskey is key to crafting the perfect hot toddy. Generally, bourbons are considered to be the best whiskeys for hot toddies since they tend to have sweeter notes that pair well with honey and lemon juice.
Whether you’re looking to treat yourself or cure a cold, sipping on a hot toddy is sure to provide some warmth and comfort. By exploring the various hot toddy recipes out there and experimenting with different types of bourbon, you can create your favorite version of this classic beverage.
How to make a hot toddy
Hot toddies have been around for centuries, and the recipe has evolved. The traditional hot toddy is made with whiskey, hot water, honey, and a slice of lemon. It is traditionally served as a cold and flu remedy but can be enjoyed anytime.
There are many variations of the classic hot toddy recipe. For example, you can use rum instead of whiskey or mix the whiskey with tea instead of hot water. You can also add spices like cinnamon, cloves, or nutmeg to give it more flavor.
When I was at home with covid, I decided to make myself a hot toddy.
Here is my recipe:
-Mix two ounces of whiskey, one teaspoon of honey lemon, and 1/4 cup of boiling water in a lemon ginger tea bag in a mug.
-Add a squeeze of lemon juice from a fresh lemon or apple cider.
-Stir until the honey is completely dissolved
-Garnish with a slice of lemon or a cinnamon stick.
When selecting a whiskey for your hot toddy, the best whiskey to use is one with a high proof that will help to ward off any germs. The best bourbon for a hot toddy is one with notes of oak, caramel, and vanilla that can complement the sweetness of honey.
If you’re looking for a health benefit from your hot toddy, you may want to opt for a rum-based version. Rum is known to have health benefits, such as reducing inflammation and boosting the immune system.
For an added twist on this popular cold remedy, you can use tea instead of hot water when making your hot toddy. This will create a sweeter, more flavorful beverage that can be enjoyed both hot and cold. To make a hot toddy recipe with tea, replace the hot water with eight ounces of hot tea.
The health benefits of bourbon
When it comes to health benefits, bourbon is often overlooked. While it may not be the first thing you think of when it comes to healthy drinks, some health benefits are associated with drinking a hot toddy made with bourbon.
Studies have shown that moderate consumption of alcohol can reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke. The antioxidants in bourbon can help lower cholesterol levels, improve blood circulation, and prevent the onset of dementia. According to the American Heart Association, moderate alcohol consumption means an average of one to two drinks per day for men and one drink per day for women.
The best bourbons for a hot toddy
Several bourbons stand out for those looking to get the most out of their hot toddy. Makers Mark is known for its sweetness and hint of vanilla, while Four Roses has a spicy, woody taste with hints of floral notes. Bulleit Bourbon has a sweet nose and mild finish, while Woodford Reserve is known for its robust flavor.
When it comes to creating the perfect hot toddy recipe with tea, there are a few options. If you’re looking for an easy way to incorporate tea into your hot toddy, try adding a teabag to your mixture. Alternatively, you can use brewed tea as the base for your hot toddy.
No matter which type of bourbon or tea you choose, you can’t go wrong with making a hot toddy. The best bourbon for a hot toddy will depend on your preferences and tastes, but you’ll be sure to enjoy this delicious winter-time favorite.
Conclusion
The hot toddy is an age-old drink that has long been used to help relieve cold and flu symptoms, along with other home remedies. Whether you make your hot toddy with bourbon, whiskey, rum, or even tea, it’s sure to warm you up on a chilly winter’s night and soothe a sore throat. The health benefits of bourbon can also provide an added wellness boost when you choose to use it in your hot toddy.
To get the most out of your hot toddy, look for a good quality bourbon or whiskey high in antioxidants and low in sugar or sugar free. For those looking to customize their hot toddy experience, try using a hot toddy recipe with tea for a unique flavor combination.
You may visit the local pharmacy for the self-management of cold and flu symptoms at home. Always ask the pharmacist which over-the-counter medications are right for you. Some cough and cold medications should not be taken with high blood pressure, kidney disease, or diabetes. You may find the answers to some of the most commonly asked questions during cold a flu season here.
The content on this site is for informational or educational purposes only and does not substitute medical advice.
