We asked readers for their best home remedies when they have a cold, and WBEZ “Say More” hosts asked listeners for their suggestions on the show. Here’s what you told us, lightly edited for clarity:
“Hot cup of water with lime juice squeezed into it with the lime peel with a little Splenda, let it sit for about 10 minutes, then drink. I actually drink this every day, and I haven’t a cold or even been sick in years.”
— Essie Owens Pritchard
“Johnny Walker Red, boiling hot water, honey, slice of lemon studded with cloves and cinnamon stick.”
— Eve Gibson Pytel
“About 10 Cuties at a time and blue Gatorade and sleep.”
— Alejandra Sanchez
“As soon as I feel a cold coming on, I take seven 1,000-mg vitamin C tablets for three days, and it will always go away. I have done this for over 30 years.”
— Linda Padgurskis
“A hot toddy made with tequila, lemon and honey in hot water.”
— Angela Cantu
On WBEZ’s “Say More with Mary Dixon and Patrick Smith,” listeners called in with their advice. Here are some of their suggestions:
“Sleep is the miracle drug for sure, and next to that I love gargling.”
— Chris, River Forest
“I take ginseng … and elderberry syrup. … Stay hydrated, always add a little lemon.”
— Gail, Evanston
“I drink some tea with cod liver oil, honey and lemon.”
— Phil, Maywood
“We use a steamer at night in the bedrooms. … We’re always working at keeping moisture for the nasal passages and lungs.”
— Georgine, North Aurora
Listen to the show to hear what Guest Dr. Steven Rothschild, chair of Rush University’s Department of Family Medicine and primary care physician, thought of the callers’ suggestions — and to get his tips about how to avoid a cold in the first place.