DESCRIPTION
Alcohol is a drug that affects the nervous system – altering mood and perception, for example — and in excessive amounts it can seriously, sometimes fatally, damage the body. However when taken in small amounts it can have a positive effect on health.
FOOD USES
Some types of alcohol are used in therapeutic practice as carriers or preservatives for other healing substances; for example, vodka or brandy are often used to make a herbal tincture.
Wine tonics stimulate the appetite.
Digestives made from red wine and certain herbs aid digestion when taken after a rich or heavy meal.
Alcohol taken in small quantities may help guard against heart disease, diseases of the arteries, and the formation of gallstones caused by cholesterol.
Red wine is a rich source of flavonoids, which help protect the body from viruses and allergens.
CAUTION
Do not drink alcohol if you are pregnant, are taking antibiotics or aspirin, or have gout. Never give alcohol to someone who is suffering from shock, or someone who is or has been unconscious.
DATA FILE
Properties
Alcohol has culinary, cosmetic, and therapeutic uses. It relaxes and warms the body, acts as an antiseptic and diuretic, and is a depressant.
Special notes
- Safe levels of alcohol consumption are around 10-20g. per day, that is, around two glasses (4fl. oz./125ml.) of wine or just under one pint of beer a day.
- Alcohol can be toxic in large amounts, and under certain circumstances it should be avoided altogether.
Contraindications
- If you are taking any other prescription or over-the-counter drugs – including vitamin and mineral supplements – seek advice from your pharmacist or general practitioner before drinking alcohol.
- Alcohol is best avoided by people who suffer from migraine.
