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Absinthe is a spirit that has fascinated many for decades. It has often been associated with mystery, hallucinations, and even madness. However, the truth about absinthe is more complicated than the myths that surround it.

What is Absinthe?

Absinthe is a distilled spirit that is made with herbs, mainly wormwood, anise, and fennel. The spirit originated in Switzerland in the late 18th century and became very popular in France in the 19th century. Absinthe is known for its green color, which comes from the chlorophyll of the herbs it is made from.

Myths and Reality

Absinthe was banned in several countries during the 20th century due to its supposed harmful effects. It was believed that absinthe caused hallucinations, madness, and even death. One of the main myths surrounding absinthe is that it contains a chemical compound called thujone, which is believed to cause hallucinations and other psychoactive effects.

However, modern research has shown that the amount of thujone in absinthe is not enough to cause any significant effects. In fact, the thujone content in absinthe is similar to the amount found in other common herbs like sage, tarragon, and juniper.

Another myth surrounding absinthe is that it was responsible for the trend of “absinthe madness” in the 19th century. This theory suggested that the high alcohol content and thujone in absinthe caused people to experience delirium and psychosis. However, historians have found no evidence to support this theory.

The Real Effects of Absinthe

Although absinthe does not cause hallucinations or madness, it is still a potent spirit. Absinthe has an alcohol content that ranges from 45% to 74% depending on the brand. Drinking too much absinthe can lead to alcohol poisoning, which can cause seizures, coma, and even death.

It is also important to note that the traditional way of drinking absinthe involves diluting it with water and adding sugar. This process is known as the “louche” effect, which causes the drink to turn cloudy. Traditional absinthe glasses have a built-in absinthe fountain with spigots that slowly drip water into the drink. This slow dilution process helps to release the flavors and aromas of the herbs in the absinthe, making it a unique and complex drink.

The Final Word

Absinthe is a spirit that has sparked the imagination of many and has been the subject of myths and legends. While the truth about absinthe may not be as fantastical as the stories that surround it, it is still a unique and potent drink that should be enjoyed responsibly.