For generations, a natural Indian remedy has been celebrated for its effectiveness in easing the symptoms of coughs and colds—common ailments during the colder months. As winter persists with chilly spells across the UK, many continue to seek simple, natural ways to soothe their discomfort.
TikTok user @Bettylikestoeat recently shared a homemade cold remedy that is widely used in India. The recipe combines turmeric, honey, black pepper, ginger, and fresh orange juice into a vibrant, flavorful health shot. She emphasized the importance of ginger in the mix, calling it “essential if you have a cold.”
While the exact measurements weren’t given, the final result was a bright orange drink with a taste reminiscent of popular commercial wellness shots. Betty compared it to similar ginger shots available from Pret-a-Manger, which typically cost around £4, noting that her homemade version is just as tasty.
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All ingredients can be easily sourced from Tesco for under £3.50, and many households may already have some of them on hand. Each ingredient brings known benefits to combat cold symptoms. Orange juice provides abundant vitamin C and nutrients to support the immune system and keep the body hydrated, while honey soothes sore throats and acts as a natural cough suppressant, as supported by the NHS (though it’s not suitable for children under 12 months).
Turmeric, rich in the anti-inflammatory compound curcumin, is frequently used in herbal remedies to relieve sore throats, reduce congestion, and enhance immunity. Black pepper helps increase the absorption of curcumin, amplifying these effects. Ginger adds warmth and further anti-inflammatory properties, making the combination particularly powerful.
In a separate video, Betty shared another favorite family remedy from her Cantonese heritage: a heated Coca-Cola drink mixed with lemon and ginger. While not medicinal, this folk remedy is popular in Hong Kong for soothing sore throats and cold symptoms, thanks to the steam and warmth, as well as the natural benefits of ginger and the quick energy boost from sugar.
This Indian cold remedy is a simple, affordable way to harness the healing power of natural ingredients during cold seasons.