It’s peak cold and flu season, and it seems like everyone around me is getting sick right now. Aside from practicing good hygiene, like washing my hands often and avoiding touching my face, there’s one other thing I do to help feel my best this time of year: Make my five-ingredient tonic.

I’ve been making this drink for years, and often have a mug before bed in the winter. I’ll also make it before going on a trip to ensure I’m in tip-top shape. I can’t make any claims that it’ll work for you, but if you’re interested in trying it, here’s how I do it.

All you need are five simple ingredients: ginger, garlic, turmeric, lemon and honey. I always eyeball everything, but I’ve included rough measurements below.

First, boil some water. While you’re waiting, prep your ingredients, adding them to the mug as you go. Finely mince one clove of garlic (or push it through a garlic press to make it easier). Finely chop or grate an inch-long piece of peeled fresh ginger. (I like to do the latter, as you get finer pieces. You can also use frozen ginger cubes as well.) Next, add the juice of one whole lemon, about a teaspoon of ground turmeric, and a tablespoon or two of honey (to taste). Pour the boiling water over it, stir, wait a few minutes for it to cool, then drink!

I personally like to drink my tonic right before bed because it’s warm and soothing, but you can drink it any time of day. You can also make the mixture, let it cool, pour it into little jars, and stick them in the fridge for a cold shot instead.

Note: Turmeric can stain, so be mindful when mixing the tonic. You might not want to use your favorite mug!

Potential health benefits

I’m no doctor, but all five of these ingredients are said to have some pretty great health benefits. Ginger is known to have anti-inflammatory and anti-viral properties that can help the body fight off infections. It can also aid with nausea and speed up digestion, thanks to its compound gingerol, which boosts the rate at which food moves through your stomach.

Garlic contains the compound allicin, which can help reduce your risk of getting sick, shorten the length of illness, and lessen symptoms. Turmeric has been used in ayurvedic medicine for centuries and contains the polyphenol called curcumin, which is packed with antioxidants and helps reduce inflammation.

It’ll likely come as no surprise that lemons are packed with antioxidants and vitamin C, which also helps to support your immune system — specifically your white blood cell count, aka your defense system, to fight off any illnesses.

Finally, the honey isn’t just there for sweetness. It also has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.

I drink this combination because it tastes great, and it gives me some peace of mind towards supporting my overall health. It’s great for the winter months, but I love it any time of year.

(Alexandra Foster is an assistant editor for TheKitchn.com, a nationally known blog for people who love food and home cooking. Submit any comments or questions to editorial@thekitchn.com.)

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