An Italian man in Australia was treated with a vodka drip for three days when the doctors ran out of medicinal alcohol. While this may seem humorous, far-fetched, or downright bizarre, there are others who feel the benefit from the "medicinal" qualities of vodka. In fact, vodka was first marketed as a medicine when it was first produced during the Middle Ages. Eastern Europeans have long used it as a remedy against bitter cold winters. Ukrainians, who also enjoy vodka, have begun to popularize "wine therapy." However, "vodka therapy" is used world wide as a home remedy for broken hearts, broken banks, and boredom.

Vodka as Medicine Photo Credit: Ivan Bajic © 2007