When Germans get sick, they don’t just pop a pill and hope for the best. Instead, they have a whole arsenal of home remedies, quirky traditions, and cultural habits that might surprise you. In this article, we’ll explore some of the weird and wonderful ways Germans handle being under the weather, as highlighted in a short and snappy video following an “Average German” named Michael Müller.
I’ve always been intrigued by how different countries approach something as universal as catching a cold. It’s such a small, everyday problem, but the solutions can vary wildly depending on where you live. In Germany, it turns out, getting sick is a mix of science, tradition, and a dash of eccentricity.
From wrapping onions in socks to drinking warm beer, Germans have some truly unique ways of handling illness. But there’s more to it than just quirky cures. The video also reveals how German work culture, healthcare, and societal attitudes shape the way people deal with sickness. And honestly? It made me rethink some of my own sick-day habits.
So, whether you’re here for the home remedies, a glimpse into German life, or just a bit of fun, let’s dive into what makes getting sick in Germany so uniquely interesting. Trust me, there’s more to it than you’d expect!
Love Germany? Click here to download your free guide to ALL of Germany’s Amazing UNESCO sites. See all 52 of them!
The video below takes you on a fascinating journey into the everyday life of Michael Müller, an “Average German,” as he battles a common cold. Far from just a mundane account of sniffles and coughs, it offers an insightful and often amusing look at German culture, healthcare, and quirky traditions.
If you’ve ever wondered how another country deals with something as universal as being sick, this video is a delightful way to find out.
You’ll see how German work culture prioritizes efficiency by encouraging people to stay home when they’re unwell, supported by generous sick leave policies that ensure financial stability during recovery. From fully paid sick leave for six weeks to health insurance that covers doctor visits, the German approach to health care feels both practical and humane.
What makes this video truly engaging is its dive into the peculiar remedies Germans swear by. As Michael experiments with everything from herbal teas and honey water to more unconventional methods like raw garlic and warm beer, you can’t help but be both entertained and intrigued.
These traditions, quirky as they may seem, reveal the deep connection between culture and wellness in Germany.
Moreover, the video is packed with fun facts—did you know Germans average 10 doctor visits a year? Or that pharmacies, not supermarkets, are the only places to buy medicine? These small details paint a rich picture of German life that’s both educational and entertaining.
You should watch this video because it’s more than just a story about a cold; it’s a window into a culture that values health, community, and tradition. It’s funny, enlightening, and might even make you rethink how you approach getting sick in your own life. Plus, with its lighthearted tone and relatable content, it’s a perfect blend of entertainment and education.
Below the video is a summary. But it’s much more fun to watch it – I promise!
The Average German On Sick Leave And Their Weird Home Remedies by DW Euromaxx
This video follows Michael Müller, an “Average German,” as he navigates through catching a cold. The video explores German work culture, health practices, and remedies.
- Cultural Expectations:
- German work culture values efficiency, encouraging sick employees to stay home to prevent spreading illness.
- In 2023, Germans averaged 20 sick days annually, with respiratory illnesses being the leading cause.
- Healthcare and Sick Leave:
- Employees receive 6 weeks of fully paid sick leave, followed by extended leave through health insurance.
- Doctor visits are covered by health insurance, eliminating out-of-pocket expenses.
- Medicinal Practices:
- Most pharmaceuticals are only available in pharmacies (“Apotheken”).
- Germans prefer conservative approaches, with 60% believing in herbal teas for treating colds.
- Home Remedies:
- Traditional remedies include:
- Hot water with honey and lemon.
- Warm beer and raw garlic.
- Chopped onion in a sock held against the ear.
- Cool compresses made of Quark to reduce fever.
- Traditional remedies include:
- Doctor Visits:
- A sick note is required for absences exceeding three days.
- Germans average 10 doctor visits annually.
- Recovery:
- After five days, Michael is ready to return to work, emphasizing the structured and supportive healthcare system in Germany.
Want to learn more about German culture? Find our guide to German work culture here and what a typical day of work looks like here. You can also find all our guides to German culture here.
