Ethanol — commonly known as alcohol — is the most widely used drug in the world. Since the dawn of civilization, it has had a profound impact on humanity. Throughout history, spirits have served many different purposes, from medicine to perfume, sometimes even in the form of pure distilled liquor. In the past, people would splash a bit onto their clothes before heading out to a party — festive, to say the least! Here are ten fun and fascinating facts about the substance that might just make you crave a greasy pizza the next day.
1 Alcohol and shooting definitely don’t mix — for several reasons…
In professional shooting sports, alcohol has actually been considered a performance-enhancing substance, as shooters could drink small amounts to relax and slow their heart rate, giving them an unfair advantage. In other words, alcohol and shooting don’t belong together (for more reasons than just this one), which is why it is classified as doping. [source]
2 Alcohol was classified very differently in Russia until recently…
Until 2011, anything containing less than 10% alcohol was legally classified as food, not as an alcoholic beverage. This classification has since changed, largely in response to rising and concerning levels of alcoholism in the country. [source]
3 “Only in Russia”, you might think — but sadly, it happens everywhere…
A Russian chimpanzee named Zhora had to undergo rehabilitation after developing an alcohol dependency, caused by visitors repeatedly giving him drinks as “rewards”. [source]
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4 Soon you might be able to sober up as fast as you get drunk…
Researchers are studying a chemical compound that can dramatically reduce blood alcohol concentration (BAC), with the potential to help people sober up in a very short time. The proposed “medication” is primarily intended for use within law enforcement and the justice system. [source]
5 The U.S. government deliberately poisoned its own citizens…
During Prohibition in the United States, the federal government intentionally poisoned industrial alcohol in an effort to curb illegal drinking in the country. Tragically, it is estimated that as many as 10,000 people lost their lives as a result. [source]
6 Well, if you’re going to die anyway, then…
Bill Wilson, the well-known co-founder of Alcoholics Anonymous, reportedly demanded whiskey on his deathbed during the final days of his life. According to accounts, he was denied the whiskey — and allegedly became furious as a result. [source]
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7 Nikola Tesla drank whiskey every day — for a very strange reason…
The world-famous inventor Nikola Tesla reportedly drank whiskey every single day, believing it would help him live to the age of 150. Unfortunately, it didn’t — and today we know much better than that. [source]
8 Moscow quite literally drank all its vodka…
After Germany’s surrender at the end of World War II, massive celebrations erupted across Moscow. The partying became so intense that the city reportedly ran out of vodka entirely — not figuratively, but literally. [source]
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9 Gin and tonic was originally created for medical use…
Gin and tonic traces its origins back to British colonial India, where British officials mixed medicinal quinine tonic (used to prevent malaria) with gin to make the bitter remedy more palatable and enjoyable. [source]
10 Do you enjoy eating and drinking extreme heat? Then you might want to try this…
The world’s hottest vodka, measuring a staggering 250,000 Scoville units, is so intense that the producers seal the bottle with a lead cap that must be cut open using wire cutters. They even urge people on their website not to buy it. But if that sounds more like a challenge than a warning, it’s called Naga Chilli Vodka. Just don’t blame us if you end up feeling very unwell afterward. [source]
Xtra Alcohol can make you feel warmer — while actually cooling you down…
Drinking alcohol creates a false sensation of warmth by causing blood vessels near the skin to dilate, which is why people often feel warmer after a few drinks. In reality, this process makes the body lose heat faster, increasing the risk of hypothermia in cold environments. In other words, alcohol can trick your brain while quietly lowering your core body temperature. [source]
5 Common Questions About Alcohol
It acts as a central nervous system depressant, affecting coordination, judgment, reaction time, and mood, even at low levels.
The body typically processes about one standard drink per hour, but detection time varies depending on metabolism, body weight, and testing method.
Yes, regular use can lead to dependence and addiction, especially when consumption becomes frequent or is used to cope with stress or emotions.
Although it may make you feel sleepy, it actually disrupts deep sleep cycles, leading to poorer sleep quality and more awakenings.
Some studies suggest possible benefits at very low intake levels, but overall health risks increase with consumption, and no amount is completely risk-free.
