Over in Russia, vodka is a well-known and well-loved national beverage. While it’s just as favored for its strength and flavor in the United States, it wasn’t until recently we started to hear about the health benefits of vodka.
Vodka and Russian History
Vodka, believe it or not, did not start its life as a beverage for enjoyment. The term was literally used to describe medications, known as tinctures, made from the elixir. Many of its uses were not internal, but external. In times of war, vodka can be used not only as an antiseptic, but as a mild sedative or diuretic as well. Because it is merely diluted alcohol, vodka has been used as a disinfectant, for both surgical materials and wounds. Imagine having a shot of vodka poured over an open wound because there are no other antiseptic solutions within reach. Ouch!