Chicken soup has been touted as a cure for the common cold for centuries. But is chicken soup a “miracle cure” in a bowl or is this just a myth?

Growing up, my nana always shared with us her home remedies to cure common ailments and one of her favourites was of course chicken soup. Whenever we were coming down with something – her famous chicken soup would come to the rescue! She loved herbs as much as I do and she would load this soup up with an array of herbs and vegetables from her garden and always slowly cook it over the day. Without fail this soup would have us soldiering on in no time.

After years of studying nutrition and the benefits of herbs, I believe that there is a scientific basis to the benefits of chicken soup for curing the common cold and that this isn’t just a myth. Read on to find out why.

5 Ways That Chicken Soup Can Cure a Cold

1. High in minerals: Using chicken bones and a wide array of vegetables and cooking these over a long period of time means that the soup will be high in minerals like zinc, calcium, phosphorus. All these minerals are important to health but particularly zinc to help the body fight infection.
2. Garlic is a Strong Antibiotic to help Fight Infection: Garlic has strong antibacterial and antiviral actions that help the body to fight infection. Allicin is the constituent that is responsible for its healing benefits but can be destroyed when heated. A great tip when cooking garlic to preserve its maximum healing benefits: Crush garlic, then wait 10 minutes before cooking to maximize health benefits. Allowing the crushed garlic to stand for 10 minutes before cooking further enhances formation of allicin, ensures the maximum synthesis of allicin, and also makes it more stable and resistant to the heat of cooking. Then cook on a low heat for a short period of time (or add it towards the end of the cooking time).
3. Thyme is a Strong Anti-Microbial herb: Thyme can help to soothe a sore throat and is anti-tussive- helping to reduce coughing.
4. Ginger is Anti-inflammatory & Expectorant: Ginger is a warming herb that can be used to stimulate circulation to the peripheral areas, reduce inflammation and help relieve congestion.
5. Warm fluids are hydrating & help to Reduce Symptoms of Colds: Soups are not only the perfect comfort food in Winter but can help to relieve a stuffy nose or sore throat. Check out my favourite chicken soup recipe below and enjoy!

Find our Slow-Cooked Chicken Soup recipe here.