Flu sufferers are being advised that curry can help beat off aches, pains and shivers.

Dr Ron Eccles Director of the Common Cold Research Centre in Cardiff says that the spices used to make the dish have anti-bacterial properties.

He said: "It is my own personal recommendation, the hotter the better.

"Spices have surprisingly got a lot of antibacterial activity.

"They are the plant's own immune system. There is a lot of goodness in spices."

Dr Eccles said spicy food assists in the production of mucus, which can act to wash bacteria away.

Spices also produce anti-oxidant activity which creates an effect similar to vitamin C.

He added that eating food prepared with garlic, onion, allspice, oregano, cloves, bay leaves, peppers or corriander should help to inhibit bacterial growth.

He said: "It will make your nose run, but that is good for you. The more mucus the better.

"It is a bit embarrassing, but mucus is our best line of defence."

Dr Eccles said a medicinal vindaloo could also help flu victims get back on their feet quicker.

Even lager gets the thumbs up from the doctor - but only in moderation.

"It could well shorten the duration of your cold, it will help you feel better by promoting mucus secretions and anti-bacterial activity," he said.

"But go for one lager no more, alcohol tends to dehydrate you.

"It is certainly a much more pleasant way of treating a cold than the traditional honey and lemon drink."