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Do You Have a Bottle of Gin in Your Medicine Cabinet?
The Origin of Gin
Gin is widely believed to have been invented in Holland in the 16th century by Dutch physician, Franciscus Sylvius. It was originally used for medicinal purposes as it was thought to improve circulation and help with other ailments.
The name “gin” comes from the Dutch word for juniper, genever, which is the ingredient that gives the spirit its distinctive piney flavor. It’s fitting that it is named for juniper, since that’s what defines the liquor -- in order for a drink to be classified as gin, the predominant flavor must be juniper.
A medical treatment
Using alcohol as a medicinal treatment might sound counterproductive, but there is evidence that drinking gin in moderation can have some benefits. The juniper berries that give gin its flavor also contain antioxidants and flavonoids, which can help fight infection, reduce inflammation, and aid in digestion.
Several common gin cocktails have been created to fight illness throughout history. The Gin & Tonic was invented in India in the 19th century in an effort to avoid malaria. The quinine in the tonic water was the disease-fighting component of the drink, and the gin was added to mask the bitterness of the tonic water.
The Gimlet was also created in the 19th century with a medicinal intent. The British Royal Navy mixed gin and lime juice to prevent scurvy, and thus, another classic cocktail was born.
Who loves gin the most?
Despite gin’s Dutch roots, the popularity of the drink is widespread. The English were introduced to the spirit during the Dutch War of Independence in the 17th century. They brought the drink back with them and it was such a hit that gin is now the national spirit of England.
But even though it’s officially England’s national spirit, the country can’t hold a candle to the largest gin-drinkers in the world. The Philippines make up the largest market, reportedly accounting for about 43% of worldwide gin consumption.
Trivia Questions
- Science: A raw ingredient of aspirin originally came from boiling the bark of what tree?
Reveal answer
Willow - Beer/Alcohol Science: What scientific principle applies to a Black and Tan, whereas heavy, dark beer floats on top of the lighter beer?
Reveal answer
Viscosity/Density/Fluid Mechanics - Beverages: What drink holds the title as the official state beverage for the most states in the U.S.?
Reveal answer
Milk - Beer/Alcohol: What Bacardi-owned liqueur is flavored with elderflowers?
Reveal answer
St. Germain - Beer/Alcohol: What does X.O. on a bottle of cognac mean?
Reveal answer
Extra Old - Alcohol: Where is Glenfiddich made?
Reveal answer
Scotland
Did you know? People take aspirin differently across the world. Americans swallow tablets whole, the British dissolve them in water, and the French prefer to use them as suppositories.
Did you know? People take aspirin differently across the world. Americans swallow tablets whole, the British dissolve them in water, and the French prefer to use them as suppositories.
Did you know? Whiskey starts its life as beer. Whiskey is made from "wort", which is the "beer" that gets distilled.