This simple candy can help your cold or flu feel a little bit better

There are many simple ways Beaverton residents can remain healthy during this cold and flu season. We are seeing more people wearing masks when they have a cough and keeping their distance when meeting with others. Of course, colds are more likely to spread during cooler weather, because we are indoors more, are closer together, and we are not outside as much getting the benefits of sunlight with vitamin D.

It is not surprising that cough drop sales are up, especially this time of year. It is interesting to note that cough drops evolved from throat lozenges, which have been around for over 3500 years. The first documentation of the use of throat lozenges is in Egypt in 1550 BC. These lozenges were made of a combination of a number of things, including honey, herbs, spices and citrus, which of course provides the antioxidant vitamin C. What is interesting to note is that these are the same ingredients found in most cough drops today. Even the earliest lozenges helped to reduce hoarseness, throat irritation and coughs.

Cough drops, as we know them today, were invented in the 1800s and originally were called “cough candy”. The word “candy” was most likely added, because some of the earliest producers of cough drops were candy companies. Now the word “cough drops” is used for both the drops and lozenges.

Some of the earliest producers of cough drops where the Smith brothers, Halls and Luden. William Luden first started making candy, in the early 1870s and then, in cooperation with a pharmacist invented menthol cough drops. These cough drops were not colored red as the other earlier brands, but were amber, and in addition to honey he added licorice flavor. His unique way of marketing by giving free samples to railroad workers, who then spread the word, and thus propelled the Luden brand quickly to the top.

Beaverton residents can be proactive in preventing the spread of colds and flu by not rubbing their eyes, nose or mouth without first, washing or otherwise sanitizing their hands. Be sure to cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough. Disinfecting often-handled items like cell phones, doorknobs and keys are other helpful ways Beavertonians can keep from getting a cold or spreading germs.

There are other simple things we can do to stay healthy, which include drinking plenty of water, relaxing and getting lots of sleep. Sucking on a cough drop, especially before going to bed also helps relax a person. Taking vitamin D, and eating more probiotics like yogurt, sauerkraut and Kombucha tea can also help with staying healthy. Now there is a combination of foods!

It is interesting to note that although not officially recognized as a national holiday, there is a National Cough Drop Day, and this year, as with all the preceding years, it is on May 13th. Yes, Beaverton, let’s go celebrate the invention of cough drops!

Nancy Neal Yeend is a local grandmother, a retired Realtor, and mediator/dispute management strategist. She enjoys going to parks, identifying birds and visiting memory care facilities with her Therapy Dog, Wolfie.