A traditional Indian cold remedy, passed down through generations, has captured widespread attention after going viral on the social media platform TikTok. As winter continues to bring chilly weather across the UK, many are seeking effective ways to combat the unpleasant symptoms of coughs and colds that are common during January and February.
The Viral TikTok Discovery
TikTok user @Bettylikestoeat recently tested and shared this simple remedy, which is reportedly popular in many Indian households. The straightforward blend combines turmeric, honey, and black pepper with orange juice to create a potent wellness shot.
The social media creator also added ginger to her mixture, explaining: "I just feel like it is essential if you have a cold." While the original commenter who inspired the video did not provide exact measurements, Betty embraced a bit of guesswork, resulting in a vibrant orange-coloured drink that she described as "so tasty."
A Homemade Alternative to Shop-Bought Shots
After sampling her creation from a shot glass, Betty compared the flavour to popular commercial wellness shots. She remarked: "That is delicious. It tastes like one of those ginger shots you can buy from Pret-a-Manger for £4."
For those interested in recreating this remedy, all necessary ingredients can be purchased for under £3.50 from Tesco, and many households may already have some items in their fridges or cupboards.
Ingredients List
- Clear Honey (340g)
- Ground Black Pepper (25g)
- Ground Turmeric (45g)
- Smooth Orange Juice (1L)
Why These Ingredients Work
Individually, each component of this remedy has well-documented benefits for alleviating cold symptoms, making their combination a logical approach to maximising therapeutic effects.
Orange juice is valued for its abundant vitamin C content and other nutrients that support immune function and help maintain hydration levels. The NHS recommends honey, particularly when mixed with hot or warm water, for its throat-soothing qualities and its ability to reduce both the frequency and severity of coughs, acting as a natural cough suppressant. It is important to note, however, that honey should not be given to babies under 12 months old.
Spices such as turmeric, which contains the anti-inflammatory compound curcumin, are commonly included in herbal tea mixtures. Turmeric is said to help relieve sore throats, clear congestion, and strengthen immunity, especially when combined with black pepper, which enhances the absorption of its beneficial compounds.
Another Cultural Remedy Shared
Previously, the same TikTok user revealed a comparable remedy from her upbringing in a Cantonese household, where a distinctive Coca-Cola concoction served as a go-to home treatment for colds. Heating the well-known fizzy beverage and adding lemon and ginger was something she and her relatives "swore by" when feeling unwell.
While not strictly medicinal, this widespread folk remedy, particularly popular in Hong Kong, is thought to soothe sore throats and relieve cold symptoms. The therapeutic effect is attributed to the steam, warmth, and properties of ginger, alongside the energy boost provided by sugar.
