A third of Brits have turned to home remedies more in 2024 than they did the previous year, including chicken soup, ginger tea, and eating garlic cloves
According to a study, the go-to home remedies for colds this year include a hot honey and lemon drink, saltwater gargling, and a warm bath.
It’s been found that about a third of those surveyed have increased their reliance on these home remedies in 2024 compared to the prior year.
A poll of 2,000 adults revealed that 50% trust in the efficacy of these remedies, and 65% rely on them for comfort when feeling ill, opting for treatments such as chicken soup, ginger tea, and eating garlic.
Commissioned by Broncho5in1, the research found that over a third believe these remedies have been passed down through their family, and if a remedy has worked before, 48% are likely to use it again.
A spokesperson for the cough brand Broncho5in1 said: “People are trying all sorts of weird and wacky home remedies to treat a cough and cold because they are understandably confused and overwhelmed at the number of options available.”
“With ingredients readily available at home, whether in the kitchen cupboards or bathroom cabinets, it’s no surprise people are avoiding a trip out in the cold and using what they already have.”
“But people should be cautious about relying on such remedies. Some are simply old wives’ tales which have been passed down through generations.”
The study also revealed that 43% of people have difficulty identifying the type of cough they have, with 80% claiming this makes it challenging to know which medical product to purchase. The most common types of coughs were found to be tickly, chesty, and dry.
According to those surveyed, early signs of a cough include frequently needing to clear the throat and changes in voice tone. However, over four in 10 people failed to recognise a sore throat as an early symptom.
When a cough appears, as many as 30% try natural remedies, while a quarter use over-the-counter products simultaneously.
A spokesperson for Broncho5in1 emphasised: “With the cold and flu season upon us, it is important people know how to spot a cough at the first signs. Many people don’t realise that a sore throat can be a sign of a cough brewing. It’s better to catch a cough early on when it’s just developing to avoid further suffering.”
Top 10 most used home remedies:
- Honey and lemon in hot water
- Gargling salt water
- Taking a hot bath
- Chicken soup
- Oranges/orange juice
- Hot toddy (whiskey, honey and lemon juice)
- Ginger tea
- Peppermint tea
- Spicy food
- Hot cocoa
