What is Ouzo?

Ouzo is a well-known staple of Greek life and is famous for its unique flavor and comforting traditions. People like to have this very special anise-flavored dry alcoholic beveragedue to its beneficial uses.In this article we are going to tell you Health Benefits Of Ouzo, so read this article carefully to get the complete information. It is also referred as the ‘national liquor’ of Greece. Established in 1856 in the town of Tirnavos, Ouzo has become a symbol of Greek culture with the essential presence in seaside dinners and boisterous nights.

Nutrition Facts & Alcohol Content –

The liquor must be at least 37.5% alcohol by abv (75 proof).

Is Ouzo free of gluten?

Pure grape ouzo is completely free of gluten. It is possible that neutral grain spirits distilled from wheat contain some traces of gluten protein that can affect gluten intolerance.

Can Ouzo become toxic or discolored?

The ethanol present in the alcohol prevents it from ever becoming toxic. Oxygen and light can change the flavor if the bottle is left open and exposed to air but it can never become toxic even for years. A capped bottle in the cabinet will last for decades.

Related: Health Benefits Of Otaheite Apple

Major health benefits of Ouzo –

Ouzo has a number of health benefits and is used in Greek folk medicine. Following are the major benefits which can extensively help you in one or the other ways:

  1. Insomnia – If you have trouble while sleeping then you can try a couple of Ouzos before you go to bed. Ouzo is better than any sleeping pill and helps even the worst insomniacs.
  2. Relaxation – People who feel a little nervous or suffer from anxiety are suggested to take Ouzo as it will make them relax and forget all the worries for a while. It helps in making you smile and relaxes your mood.
  3. Liniment–It is believed that rubbing Ouzo into tired muscles and aching joints relieves the worst symptoms of rheumatism. Ouzo helps in relaxing bones and muscles and gives relief to one.
  4. Acclimatisation –Blood of many people gets thickened as the body attempts to cope with the intense heat.Nosebleeds and swollen ankles are common for the people who are unused to the Greek summer. It is suggested to drink plenty of water and a glass or two of Ouzo as it will surely thin the blood and destroy some of the worst symptoms.
  5. Decongestant–Due to the presence of herbs and spices, Ouzo certainly clears the head. Also, it relieves in the worst symptoms of heavy cough and cold.
  6. Expectorant –It is claimed that rubbing Ouzo into the chest helps in a chesty cough and clears the lungs. Many older Greeks rub Ouzo into their chest and get quick relief.
  7. Antiseptic–Due to the hot climate, Greece people wounds can quickly turn septic. If they use Ouzo as an antiseptic, it will help them as nothing else.
  8. Toothache – If you want to relieve the worst symptoms of toothache, take Ouzo as it is an anesthetic.
  9. Headache and flu – These can be well treated with a warm ouzo beverage before going to bed.
  10. Swollen feet – If your feet get simply hurt or swollen after a harsh day then rub them with lukewarm ouzo. It will help you to get rid of any swelling or pain.

Related: Health Benefits Of Osu Fruit

How to Drink Ouzo?

Different ways to drink ouzo include the following:

  • Ouzo drinks in Greece are served with either Mezedes, small dishes of octopus, fresh bread, olives or cheese.
  • Drink this alcohol with food.
  • Mix cold water into the beverage and sip it along with fresh Greek snacks.

Side Effects of drinking Ouzo –

If alcohol consumption is done in an excessive manner then it may lead to health risks including addiction, chronic diseases and alcohol abuse. There are different laws, rules and regulations for alcohol consumption and purchase in different countries. It is suggested that people who should not drink alcohol include pregnant women, youngsters less than 21 years and people who are recovering from alcoholism. Also, it is advised that people who are planning to drive or any other activity should avoid Ouzo so that they can focus on their skills.

Related: Benefits Of Lemon For Skin

Is Ouzo Good For Your Stomach?

Sipping ouzo along with mezes, the national drink of Greece has healing properties. People take ouzo to treat an upset stomach, alleviate teething pains in infants and relieve a headache. With anti-inflammatory properties and antioxidant activity, ouzo is the best alternative for protecting cells from disease.

How Does Ouzo Help Digestion?

Anise Present In Ouzo Helps In The Proper Functioning Of The Intestine. Also, It Helps In Absorbing Iron From Food. With The Quality Of Dilating The Blood Vessels, Ouzo Can Effectively Reduce Blood Pressure.

Is Ouzo A Digestive And How Does It Help Digestion?

Ouzo is soft and sweetly fragrant anise having the bold and briny flavors of the Greek palate. It is found that anise is a digestive drink which helps in the proper functioning of the intestine as well as absorbing iron from food. With the quality of dilating the blood vessels in abundance, ouzo is also known to reduce blood pressure.

Final words –

Greek Ouzo is one of the staple Greek drinks with a characteristic anise flavorand is savored with Greek foods. The primary liquor of ouzo is distilled from the grape mash leftover from wine production then it is flavored with anise (black licorice) which gives this beverage a unique flavor. Ouzo is clear liquor in the bottle but if anise is not soluble then the alcohol becomes a milky color.Overall, getting a drink of the Greek Ouzo will totally soothe your soul and body. It is preferred if you will have your ouzo in the late afternoon or just before dinner as it will help you to balance your body and relax your inner self. In last, I hope, this blog is sufficient enough to provide the information about Health Benefits Of Ouzo.