## The Comfort of Familiarity: Revisiting Classic Sick Day Remedies
There’s a certain comfort in routine, and when it comes to illness, many of us grew up with a distinct set of traditions. Forget the doctor’s visit – the go-to cure often involved a carefully curated collection of remedies, passed down through generations. We recently spoke with Kelly and Hot Wings to unpack these enduring practices, offering a nostalgic glimpse into how we’ve long sought relief from the common cold.
Kelly, a long-time Michigander, has a consistently reliable approach to battling illness. “I’ve always gone straight to Theraflu,” she explained. “It’s just what works, you know?” This reliance on commercially available cold medicine speaks to a broader trend – a desire for immediate, accessible solutions when feeling unwell. Meijer, a prominent Michigan retailer, confirms a steady demand for Theraflu during peak cold and flu seasons.
## Vernor’s and Whiskey: A Michigan Tradition
However, Kelly’s experience isn’t entirely isolated. Across Michigan, the consumption of Vernor’s, a ginger ale-like beverage with a complex history, has become deeply ingrained in the state’s culture. Often consumed alongside saltines, Vernor’s represents a comforting ritual for many Michiganders when feeling under the weather. The beverage’s unique flavor profile – a blend of spices, herbs, and carbonated water – has been a staple for over a century.
On the other hand, Hot Wings, a 70s native, leans towards a more traditional approach. “I grew up with whiskey mixed with lemon,” he recalls. “It helped me sleep. Simple as that.” While seemingly unconventional, this method reflects a widespread sentiment: utilizing readily available spirits to soothe discomfort.
## Beyond the Medicine: The Rituals of Recovery
Hot Wings’ recovery plan also incorporates ‘Free Beer and The Price Is Right’ – highlighting a desire for distraction and comfort alongside the physical remedy. These anecdotal approaches showcase how recovery extends beyond simply alleviating symptoms; it’s about creating an environment of well-being.
## What This Means for Consumers
This resurgence of older remedies points to a continued desire for familiar, accessible comfort when feeling unwell. While modern medicine offers sophisticated treatments, the appeal of simple, time-tested solutions remains strong. The demand for products like Theraflu and the ongoing tradition of Vernor’s consumption demonstrate a preference for trusted brands and locally rooted customs.
## Pros and Cons
Pros:
Affordable, readily available, culturally significant, provides a sense of comfort and nostalgia.
Cons:
Lack of scientific evidence, potential for misuse of alcohol, effectiveness varies greatly depending on individual symptoms.
## Decade Flashback
As we look back on the past decade, it’s clear that many of our childhood memories have stayed with us. From our favorite TV shows to our go-to remedies for when we’re feeling under the weather, these experiences have shaped who we are today. The Free Beer and Hot Wings Holiday Vacation 2025-2026 photo gallery is now live on our website. Check it out to see more from our team’s adventures over the past year.
