Remember the days when you were young and had a terrible cold, that cup of wonderfully hot, spicy and soothing drink that Grandma gave you? We are going to reveal the common ingredients and why they work.

Ginger has been used by the Chinese for more than 2,000 years and is one of natures amazing antiviral herbs. It is generally used to treat an upset stomach, but it also helps to fight colds by removing congestion, relieving sinus pain and clearing sore throats. As the Chinese says, take a nice hot ginger drink to induce sweating and eliminate the coldness inside your body!

Honey Weve all heard how good honey is havent we? Although not sure why, modern research has shown that honey has the following healing properties:

• blocks the growth of oral bacteria
• coats the throat and reduces throat irritation
• effective when used in the treatment of gastric or peptic stomach ulcers
• effective in the treatment of various wounds and infections
• effective antioxidant, which allows the blood to circulate better and provide more oxygen to areas of the body such as the brain
• can be applied externally to promote healing when applied to wounds and burns
• Last but not least - their sweet flavour is often crucial to cover up the otherwise bland/bitter taste of other herbs!

Cinnamon has been used for centuries to fight infection, stop vomiting and relieve the feelings of nausea. The 12th-century German nun and herbalist Hildegard of Bingen even recommended it as the universal spice for sinuses and a treatment for colds, flu, and inner decay and slime. Of course, its sweet flavour doesnt hurt at all!

Cloves are actually the dried buds of the clove tree. Used in China for more than two thousand years, Cloves are supposed to be an aphrodisiac. We do know that oil of Clove is a time-honored remedy for toothache. Clove oil is highly antiseptic and used to stop vomiting.

Garlic is the highly regarded herb in ancient Egypt and the Roman Empire legend has it that the Romans fed it to their soldiers before the battles! Garlic contains several antiviral compounds, including allicin, one of the most potent antibiotics in plants, thus making it an excellent boost to the immune system. Chives, scallions, onions and leeks have similar properties.

Echinacea (purple coneflower), used by the American Indians for centuries, is one of the top-selling herbs in North America. It is believed to help stimulate the production of white blood cells and makes your body stronger in fighting against cold or flu.

Lemon Balm promotes sweating and is ideal for those who suffer from cold sores throughout the winter. It also has relaxing properties if served as tea. Please note that those having an underactive thyroid should not use lemon balm on a regular basis.

St. Johns Wort is a valuable herb during the winter months, as well as exerting an anti-depressant and nerve relaxing effect it also works as an anti-viral. It is an ideal herb for overworked, stressed people with a tendency to feeling down in the dumps due to low light levels in the winter.

Ginseng is a valuable herb that helps the body cope with stress, strengthen the immune system thus helping to work against cold viruses. Please note that Ginseng is not suitable for use during acute infections.

Peppermint is a valuable herb used in the treatment of bronchitis, colds and flu. It reduces fevers by inducing sweating and cooling the body. It is also a painkiller for headaches and some migraines. It is a soothing decongestant and makes an effective inhalation for clearing blocked sinuses.

Yarrow has anti-inflammatory properties and promote sweating, great for fever, feverish colds and flu according to many herbalists. It is often taken in combination with elderflower and peppermint.

Citrus Fruits have the best source of vitamin C, which helps the body to fight against infection. A combination of citrus fruit will make a delicious and healthy drink.

Whisky is the traditional remedy for soothing sore throats. In fact, alcoholic drinks in general have antiseptic and anti-bacterial properties and a small amount is good for fighting colds and soar throats.