It’s about the worst time of year for cold and flu season. It’s late winter, the air is cold and dry. The skies are overcast and dreary, and we’re all over the winter weather. Chronic coughs, nasal congestion, and sneezing plague our households and workplaces.

Back in the late 18th Century, the hot toddy was the remedy of the day. There are many variations on this drink, but at it’s core there’s hot water, alcohol, sugar, and spices, often with some citrus. Back in the day, doctors actually prescribed it for the common cold. Historically, the alcohol was rum or whiskey, but you can use whatever you like.

Where does the funny name come from? Supposedly the etymology of the word finds its origins in India, where the Hindi word “taddy” meant a beverage made from fermented palm sap. There’s also a separate origin story about an Irish doctor named Todd who prescribed the drink as his remedy of choice for the common cold. Whatever the origin story, it certainly warms you up.

Now, I certainly don’t advocate drinking alcohol when you’re really sick. If you’re already dehydrated from a bad case of the flu, it’ll only make it worse. But if the cold’s simply getting to you or you have that sore, scratchy throat, there’s almost nothing better.

Our version of the hot toddy is pretty simple. It’s our grog recipe! Grog is made with rum, water, sugar, and lemon or lime. Make that water nice and hot, and you have your hot toddy. Garnish with a little nutmeg or cinnamon for some extra spice.