Drink tequila to kill a cold, says Nigella

A COUGH or cold would send most of us rummaging through the medicine cabinet.

But when struck down with flu, it seems Nigella Lawson heads for the drinks cabinet instead – reaching for a bottle of tequila.

The television chef revealed her remedy to her 2.3million followers on Twitter yesterday. The 57- year- old said: ‘ Feeling fluey. So forgive me, but gargling with tequila and taking to my bed.’ But while Miss Lawson suggested turning to spirits to remedy a sore throat, the NHS recommends gargling with salty water instead.

Gargling with tequila – or any high-proof alcohol – does not have any proven medical benefits. Some speculate that it could have an antiseptic effect, but this would not be enough to defeat flu or cold viruses.

However, it may help numb the throat and temporarily ease soreness. Many other home remedies include strong alcohol such as a hot toddy – whisky, lemon, honey and hot water – for a cold, but their effectiveness is also debated.