I think that people suggesting their own variants on cold-treatments is a way for them to show they care. "Drink a lot of water!" "Put on socks before you go t

I think that people suggesting their own variants on cold-treatments is a way for them to show they care. "Drink a lot of water!" "Put on socks before you go to bed!" "Netty pot!" "Drink lots of tea!" All of these are kind of common knowledge. I think the act of encouraging people to rest up and take care of themselves is just a generic way to show you hope they get better. And maybe, if they really are so sick that they aren't thinking clearly, it'll then serve as a reminder to get some tea.