The belief that a shot of brandy or another strong alcoholic drink can soothe a sore throat is a long-standing folk remedy. This practice, often involving warm mixtures like a hot toddy, suggests that alcohol offers both immediate relief and therapeutic benefits. A sore throat, known medically as pharyngitis, is typically caused by viral or bacterial infection resulting in inflammation and irritation of the throat’s mucous membranes. Evaluating the effectiveness of brandy requires separating its temporary sensory effects from its actual physiological impact.
The Science Behind the Folk Remedy
Brandy (about 40% ABV) provides a mild, temporary numbing sensation when it contacts inflamed throat tissue. The ethanol acts as a localized anesthetic, momentarily dulling pain receptors and offering a brief respite from discomfort. This sensation is often compounded by the warmth of the drink, enhancing the feeling of relief in the throat and chest.
Many proponents believe the alcohol “kills germs” responsible for the infection. However, the concentration required to effectively destroy bacteria and viruses is typically between 60% and 80% ABV. Since brandy is usually diluted, its final concentration is far below the level needed for genuine antimicrobial action. The temporary relief is purely symptomatic and does not address the underlying cause.
Health Risks and Side Effects of Using Brandy
Relying on brandy for a sore throat carries several physiological drawbacks that hinder recovery. Alcohol acts as a diuretic, promoting fluid loss and leading to systemic dehydration. Since hydration is necessary to keep mucous membranes moist and thin out mucus, this dehydrating effect can worsen dryness and irritation in an already inflamed throat.
The high concentration of ethanol can directly irritate the sensitive lining of the pharynx, which is already compromised by infection. Repeated exposure to strong alcohol can further damage the throat’s mucosal barrier, potentially delaying healing. Heavy alcohol consumption can also temporarily suppress immune function, reducing the body’s ability to fight off the infection.
A significant danger lies in combining brandy with common over-the-counter cold and flu medications. Many of these products contain acetaminophen; mixing it with alcohol drastically increases the risk of liver damage. Alcohol consumption induces liver enzymes that convert acetaminophen into a toxic byproduct, which can overwhelm the liver and lead to hepatotoxicity. Additionally, many cough syrups contain dextromethorphan, which combined with alcohol can cause excessive drowsiness, dizziness, and impaired judgment, raising the risk of accidents or severe respiratory depression.
Medically Recommended Treatments for Sore Throats
The safest and most effective approach to managing a sore throat focuses on supportive care and symptom relief without the adverse effects of alcohol.
- Maintaining high levels of hydration with non-alcoholic fluids keeps mucosal tissues moist, which is essential for comfort and recovery.
- Gargling with warm salt water can help reduce throat swelling, as the saline solution draws excess fluid out of the inflamed tissues through osmosis.
- Sucking on throat lozenges or hard candies stimulates saliva production, which naturally lubricates the throat and provides temporary relief from dryness and pain.
- Using a cool-mist humidifier, especially while sleeping, adds moisture to the air, preventing the throat from drying out overnight.
- For pain and fever relief, over-the-counter medications like acetaminophen or ibuprofen are recommended when used according to package instructions and without combining them with alcohol.