hot toddy

Cinnamon stick, cloves and black peppercorns

...and so the snuffling cold continues.

I can't say that I'm not enjoying it. I feel high. I'm walking around in a technicolour vitamin haze.

Do you crave anything in particular when every sinus is blocked within an inch of its life?

I crave whole oranges and bananas and freshly squeezed fruit concoctions...apple, celery, ginger and lemon...carrot.

Who needs medication, when you have whisky?

Who said colds were dull?

Whisky

A hot toddy is hugely soothing and extremely medicinal. Traditionally with alcohol, I've kept with the whisky, but you don't need to add it.

Make your hot toddy as pure and perfect as you can.

The greatest natural healer.

If you're a keen foodie or health nut you'll know about manuka honey. It might come at £10 a pot, but it is renowned for its antibacterial properties...

...I told you. The BEST natural healer.

Alcohol = numbing
Manuka = antibacterial
Lemon = vitamin c
Spices = ancient healing properties

Whisky, manuka honey and a mug

Here is the break down:

• 1 cinnamon stick
• 4 cloves
• 4 black peppercorns
• 1 pint of water
• (optional extras: slices of fresh root ginger, 4 cardamon pods)

Put all these ingredients into a pan and simmer for 15 minutes, then strain.

When ready, pour a measure of whisky into a mug. Fill the remaining space with the hot spiced water, stir in a teaspoon of manuka honey and squeeze a healthy dose of lemon juice (or to your liking).

Then sit back...inhale...absorb and forget all your troubles.

Hot toddy!