Chills, fever, headaches and even body aches. Faced with the painful symptoms of the flu, all remedies are good to try to get better. Among them, grog has become a must. This hot drink, prepared with hot water, rum, lemon and a spoonful of honey, is seen by some as a miracle cure. But is grog really effective or is it just a tradition with no scientific basis?
The creation of grog dates back several centuries: “Grog originated in India and was exported by English sailors. It was initially a drink made from palm sap, remastered by the English with hot water and whiskey or rum” reminds us of Dr Charles Pavoine, general practitioner. In France, this recipe was adapted with rums from the colonies and then combined with grandmother’s medicines to warm bodies tired by viruses.
Charles Pignonec confirms this to us: “The most effective ingredient in grog is hot water. It helps reduce sore throats, fatigue and fever, thanks to its vapors and its thermoregulatory effect on the body.” Lemon, rich in vitamin C, can also have an impact but “its effect remains limited if you do not consume it regularly”. As for honey, it acts on sore throats and promotes better sleep. On the other hand, the alcohol present in grog only has a “slight vasodilator effect and can regulate body temperature but it can also aggravate throat irritation. specifies the doctor.
For him and “many doctors”grog can be recommended in case of flu “because it provides comfort by alleviating symptoms.” However, he advises limiting consumption to one grog per day if rum is added, to avoid interactions with certain medications and the harmful effects of alcohol consumption. For those who wish to avoid alcohol, there are simple alternatives to prepare:By removing the rum and adding ingredients like cinnamon or ginger, which have anti-inflammatory properties, we can obtain a drink that is as effective and pleasant.”
You will have understood that if grog is not a magic potion to cure the flu, it can alleviate certain symptoms and provide comfort. Hot water, honey and lemon are the main allies, while alcohol remains an optional ingredient. Finally, don’t forget that the best treatment for the flu is rest.