The benefits of drinking hot water, honey, and lemon are multiple: citrus boosts the immune system, honey is a natural cough suppressant, and water aids in detoxifying the body. While spices such as cinnamon, cayenne, and clove also have healing properties. Cinnamon contains antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, cayenne shrinks blood vessels (relieving congestion), and cloves have a natural numbing effect. 

The addition of alcohol acts as a sedative, regrettably most of the alcohol burns off due to the hot water, which is another reason you may want to consider pouring yourself a double! All of these parts add up to a winter cold cure-all. 

Traditionally, a hot toddy is made with whisky though nowadays there are many variations. If you do abide with the classic, a nice peaty scotch adds a beautiful smokiness to your toddy; but why not try something new like apple brandy, single barrel bourbon, or spiced rum? 

By substituting the spirit, you can change the direction of your toddy; spices offer the same variety. Typically, warming spices are used in this pick-me-up, but it is always fun to experiment and try something new. The addition of ginger, lime, or cardamom can add new flavours while still benefiting your health. Some concoctions work out beautifully - other times… not so much, in that case, I’d suggest hiding the evidence.