Your favorite beverages may have started as prescriptions or poisons
In short: From wartime vitamins to elixirs for longevity, many common drinks originated in the pharmacy rather than the kitchen. This video explores how historical health crises and medicinal needs shaped the modern beverage industry.
The history of the drinks aisle is rooted in survival and science. For example, Gatorade was developed specifically to treat football players who suffered from heat-induced issues, while Ribena served as a wartime vitamin for children. Even common refreshments have medicinal roots: Schweppes began as mineral water, Diet soda was created for diabetic patients, and Fernet-Branca remained on the market as medicine during Prohibition.
The video also examines more dangerous or spiritual origins. Absinthe faced a ban following a murder, Moxie was marketed to treat paralysis, and Chartreuse was originally an elixir of long life. Other notable transitions include Welch's grape juice being invented to replace communion wine and the fact that many famous origin stories, such as that of Vernors ginger ale, are likely myths.
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Sources
- Summary by Intellect · source: The Drinks Aisle Was a Pharmacy - 10 Famous Drinks That Began as Medicine, a Cure or a Poison
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