Throughout history, humans have come up with some truly bizarre and unexpected drinks. From snake wine to beer made from spit, these ancient concoctions may seem unbelievable, but they were indeed part of various cultures and traditions. Let's explore some of these fascinating beverages:

Snake Wine

Snake wine is a traditional drink that originated in Southeast Asia, particularly in Vietnam and China. It involves infusing whole venomous snakes, typically cobras or vipers, into rice wine or grain alcohol. The venomous snakes are usually preserved in the alcohol for months or even years.

The belief behind snake wine is that it possesses medicinal properties and can boost vitality and strength. It is often consumed as a remedy for various ailments, including rheumatism and hair loss. While the venom in the snake is denatured by the alcohol, the drink is still considered potent and is said to have a strong, earthy flavor.

Chicha

Chicha is a traditional fermented beverage that has been consumed for centuries in South and Central America, particularly by indigenous tribes such as the Inca and Maya. It is made by fermenting maize (corn) or other grains with saliva.

The process involves chewing the grains and spitting them into a container, where natural enzymes in saliva break down the starches and initiate fermentation. The resulting liquid is then strained and left to ferment further. Chicha can have varying alcohol content, from mildly fermented to quite potent.

Yogurt Beer

In ancient Tibet, a unique beverage called yogurt beer was consumed. This drink was made by fermenting barley beer with yak milk and yogurt. The combination of these ingredients created a tart and frothy beverage that was enjoyed by the Tibetan people.

Yogurt beer was not only a refreshing drink but also had cultural significance in Tibetan ceremonies and festivals. It was believed to bring good luck and prosperity to those who consumed it.

These are just a few examples of the bizarre ancient drinks that existed in different parts of the world. They provide us with a glimpse into the rich and diverse history of human culture and the unique ways in which people have used beverages for various purposes.

References:

1. Atlas Obscura - Snake Wine
2. National Geographic - Drinking Snake Wine in Vietnam
3. Smithsonian Magazine - Drink Spit-Fermented Corn in Ancient Peru
4. Tibet Travel - Tibetan Yogurt Beer