Ancient Roman detox drink: Vinegar's surprising benefits
Many people, after the holidays or from time to time, decide to go on a detox diet to cleanse the body of toxins. It turns out that the ancient Romans already knew a recipe for a drink with similar effects. They mixed two ingredients to create posca – a drink also mentioned in the Gospel of John.
A simple drink made from water and vinegar saved the lives of Roman soldiers during military expeditions, when access to clean water was often an issue. Fermented wine, or wine vinegar, was most commonly used. When mixed with water, it purified the drink from harmful bacteria that could cause diarrhoea and food poisoning. Stomach upsets often determined the outcome of a military clash.
Roman drink with herbal additions
The tradition of drinking a "lemonade" made with water and vinegar spread throughout ancient Greece and later Byzantium. Andrew Dalby mentions it in his book Tastes of Byzantium (2010), referring to the writings of Aetius and Paul of Aegina. The Byzantine recipe included not only water and vinegar but also additions of cumin, fennel seeds, mint, anise, or thyme.
Other sources indicate the drink was also sweetened with honey, which helped fight bacteria. Its effects were described in medieval medical texts, suggesting it was mainly used for this purpose.
Religious aspect
In the Gospel of John, there is mention of one of the legionaries offering the crucified Jesus a sponge soaked in "vinegar" on hyssop, i.e., a long branch. It likely referred to the aforementioned posca – not pure vinegar, but a mixture of water and wine vinegar.
How does vinegar affect the body?
Acetic acid acts as a natural disinfectant—not only externally but also internally. Currently, apple cider vinegar is more commonly used instead of wine vinegar. Consuming it in appropriate amounts not only helps combat potential pathogens but may also aid in regulating blood sugar levels and weight loss.
Vinegar consumed before a meal reduces the so-called insulin spike by slowing the digestion of carbohydrates. Some even suggest that drinking 1-2 tablespoons of vinegar daily as part of a weight loss diet speeds up fat burning. Additionally, acetic acid supports the production of digestive juices, speeding up metabolism.
Dosage and side effects
The recommended daily dose is 1-2 tablespoons of vinegar diluted in a glass of water. This mixture should be drunk before a meal, preferably through a straw to protect tooth enamel. The healthiest options are organic, unfiltered apple cider or wine vinegar.
Be cautious about consuming undiluted vinegar as in excessive concentration it can cause stomach irritation, damage to tooth enamel, or electrolyte imbalances. If you are taking diabetes medications, diuretics, or medications related to heart conditions, a consultation with a doctor is necessary.
How to make the Roman drink?
The recipe comes from a publication by the Preppers Poland group on Facebook, which brings together people preparing for tougher times.
Ingredients:
- 1-2 tablespoons of wine vinegar,
- about 1 litre of cold water,
- optionally: 1-2 teaspoons of honey and a pinch of salt, selected herbs such as mint, coriander, thyme, fennel, bay leaf, or black pepper.
Instructions:
- Pour the vinegar into the cold water, add honey, and mix well. If desired, add crushed herbs.
- Set aside for about 30 minutes (or longer) in a cool place. If herbs were added, strain the drink through a fine sieve and pour it into a glass.
