There’s nothing like that first twinge of illness to make you truly appreciate your health. As the saying goes, health is wealth.
When you’re feeling under the weather, add this Citrus Cold Flu Fighter to your sick-season toolkit. While on our babymoon in the Maldives this January, I started to feel a cold coming on—probably from travel fatigue and a pregnancy-weakened immune system. The resort served a citrus-based drink that felt like a lifesaver, so I grabbed the recipe as soon as I got home and immediately recreated it. As a dietitian, I approve: the ingredients support immunity and soothe sore throats, and the drink is cozy and comforting—even in warm weather.
IMMUNE-BOOSTING BEV
I focus on crafting recipes that use better-for-you ingredients, and that includes beverages. From smoothies and homemade nut milks to matcha, I treat drinks with the same care as snacks and meals. This immune-boosting beverage combines vitamin C-rich citrus with honey, garlic and onion for a soothing, restorative sip. Yes—garlic and onion are in it, but they don’t overpower the drink; they complement the citrus and work to support immune health.
SOOTHING, SATISFYING AND NOURISHING
I loved this drink so much I ordered it constantly during the trip. It’s genuinely soothing, satisfying and nourishing—perfect any time you want comfort and immune support. My partner Bridge summed it up: the ingredients might sound unusual together, but the drink is delicious.
INGREDIENTS YOU’LL NEED:
This Citrus Cold Flu Fighter tastes healing and uplifting. Here’s a quick breakdown of the ingredients and why they help:
- Fresh organic orange juice – a refreshing base high in vitamin C, folate and potassium.
- Lemon – adds vitamin C and a bright, balancing acidity.
- Garlic cloves – a natural immune-supporting ingredient with antibacterial properties.
- White onion – provides antibacterial compounds, vitamins and fiber; both garlic and onion blend into the drink so they don’t dominate the flavor.
- Raw honey – soothes a sore throat and adds gentle sweetness along with antibacterial qualities.
Thinking about this drink already feels comforting. If you’ve tried other immunity shots or warming drinks, you’ll enjoy this one as well.
HOW TO MAKE A CITRUS COLD FLU FIGHTER
1. Heat the orange juice and squeezed lemon in a small saucepan over medium heat for 2 minutes.
2. Add the garlic, onion and any remaining ingredients except the honey. Bring to a gentle simmer and heat for about 10 minutes.
3. Transfer the mixture to a high-powered blender, slightly lift the lid to allow steam to escape, and blend for about 1 minute until smooth. Stir or blend in the honey at the end.
4. Serve hot or pour over ice for a chilled version. This recipe yields one drink—double or batch as needed and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
SHOP THIS RECIPE:
RECIPE SUBSTITUTIONS & QUESTIONS
Fresh-squeezed or high-quality store-bought orange juice both work; choose a juice made only from oranges and not from concentrate when possible. Fresh lemon juice is preferred, but if using bottled lemon juice, adjust the amount to taste—about 1 tablespoon approximates half a lemon.
If you want to vary the flavor or boost benefits, try adding a pinch of cayenne or fresh ginger for extra warmth and immune support. Turmeric is another anti-inflammatory option, though it will change the flavor profile.
WHAT IS THE BEST JUICE TO FIGHT A COLD?
Staying hydrated is the most important rule when fighting a cold or flu. Citrus juices like orange and lemon, plus juices such as beet, carrot and ginger blends, help replenish fluids and provide nutrients that support the immune system.
Note for pregnant readers: this drink is citrus-forward and may cause heartburn for some. Adjust accordingly.
Give this Citrus Cold Flu Fighter a try next time you’re feeling run-down. If you prefer savory broths, bone broth is another daily favorite for its soothing, nourishing properties.
HERE’S MORE BETTER-FOR-YOU BEVERAGES YOU’LL LOVE:
My Everyday Glow-To Smoothie
PB & Raspberry Smoothie
How To Make Nut Milk: 4 Ways
Peppermint Hot Cocoa With Homemade Coconut Whipped Cream
Watch the reel I made of this recipe.
Citrus Cold Flu Fighter
5 mins
15 mins
20 mins
Equipment
- High-powered blender
- Small saucepan
Ingredients
- 2 cups fresh organic orange juice
- 1/2 lemon, squeezed
- 3 garlic cloves
- 3 tbsp white onion, chopped
- 2 tbsp raw honey
Instructions
- Heat orange juice and squeezed lemon in a small saucepan over medium heat for 2 minutes.
- Add the garlic and onion, bring to a simmer, and heat for about 10 minutes.
- Pour into a high-powered blender, slightly lift the lid to allow steam to escape, and blend for 1 minute until smooth. Stir or blend in the honey.
- Serve hot or over ice.