As odd as this may sound, many people swear by it.
Are gin-soaked raisins the natural cure that some people claim, or simply a myth?
The news soon hit media outlets across the country.
How to Make Gin-Soaked Raisins
It is unclear why golden raisins are used instead of black raisins.
There is also no real understanding as to why nine raisins are called for.
Although some experts will recommend more or fewer raisins, nine seems to be the general consensus.
Despite the lack of research, followers of natural medicine offer theories as to why gin-soaked raisins actually work.
Juniper has, in fact, been used for centuries for this purpose.
Juniper contains plant-based compounds known asflavonoidsthat are thought to reduce inflammatory chemicals in the body calledcytokines.
These might help alleviate arthritis pain.
Others contend that another group of compounds, calledterpenes, is responsible for the pain relief.
Terpenes are aromatic chemicals found in juniper and marijuana that may have analgesic (pain-relieving) properties.
To date, there is little scientific evidence of this.
Sulfur
Other natural health experts think thatsulfurused to process golden raisins may be the active ingredient.
Rather than being sun-dried like black grapes, the grapes used to create golden raisins are mechanically dried.
More research is needed to determine how these therapies may be used to treat arthritis.
Summary
Gin-soaked raisins are a home remedy that some people believe can treat arthritis pain.
To date, there are few studies to support the claims.
Frequently Asked Questions
Traditionally, the raisins are covered only with a cheesecloth at room temperature.
The evaporation process may take longer and can leave your refrigerator smelling of sweetened gin.
No, you won’t become intoxicated since the alcohol will have already evaporated.
McGill University.Gin…without the tonic.
2019;5(8):e02376.
2021;12(1).