AKA: The Green Fairy, La Fée Verte
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III. Chemical Profile ( IUPAC name)
(1R,2R,5S,8S,9S,12S,13R,14S,15S,16R,17S,20S,21S,24S)-12,17-dihydroxy-3,8,12,17,21,25-hexamethyl-6,23-dioxaheptacyclo[13.9.2.01,16.02,14.04,13.05,9.020,24]hexacosa-3,25-diene-7,22-dione
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IV. History
Absinthe, a potent alcoholic beverage, originated in the late 18th century in Switzerland and gained immense popularity in 19th-century France, especially among artists and writers. It was traditionally made from distilled botanicals, including wormwood, anise, and fennel. Due to its association with bohemian culture and alleged harmful effects, including hallucinations attributed to thujone in wormwood, absinthe was banned in many countries in the early 20th century. Modern studies have debunked many myths about its dangers, and absinthe has seen a revival since the 1990s, with the bans lifted in most countries.
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V. Legal Information
Absinthe was banned in many countries in the early 20th century due to concerns about its effects on health and behavior. However, modern research has shown that thujone, the compound once believed to cause hallucinations, is present in low concentrations that are not harmful. As a result, the bans have been lifted in most countries, including the United States and European Union, with regulations on thujone content. Absinthe is now legally produced and sold in many parts of the world.
Not Scheduled
Absinthe is not classified under the Controlled Substances Act but is regulated by the Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB) in the United States and equivalent agencies in other countries.
Key US Federal Policies:
The Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB) regulates the production and sale of absinthe in the United States. Absinthe must be 'thujone-free,' meaning it contains less than 10 ppm (parts per million) of thujone. Labels and advertising must not imply that absinthe has hallucinogenic or mind-altering properties.
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VI. Physical Effects
Absinthe's high alcohol content, typically between 45% and 74%, can lead to effects similar to those of other strong spirits, such as euphoria, dizziness, and impaired motor function. The presence of thujone, once believed to cause hallucinations, is now understood to be present in such low concentrations in modern absinthe that it has negligible effects. Consumption in large amounts can lead to alcohol poisoning, liver damage, and other health issues associated with excessive alcohol intake.
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VII. Psychological Effects
Psychologically, absinthe can induce feelings of relaxation and euphoria, similar to other alcoholic beverages. The ritualistic preparation and consumption of absinthe, often involving a special spoon, sugar cube, and cold water, contribute to its unique cultural and psychological experience. Myths of absinthe-induced hallucinations and madness have been largely debunked, and its effects are primarily due to its high alcohol content.
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VIII. Culture
Absinthe has a rich cultural history and lore, particularly in late 19th and early 20th-century France. It was famously consumed by artists and writers such as Vincent van Gogh, Oscar Wilde, and Ernest Hemingway, who believed it enhanced creativity. Known as 'The Green Fairy,' absinthe was celebrated in literature and art but also blamed for social issues and mental health problems. Its mystique and the rituals surrounding its preparation contributed to its legendary status. The absinthe ban and subsequent revival have only added to its allure.
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