During
the Edo Period (1603 – 1868) shochu was treasured as a priceless
medicine by the Tokugawa Shogun household as well as the Daimyo (feudal
lords) households. A small quantity of shochu was ingested as a medical
treatment for such symptoms as blood congestion or hyperemia, sword cuts,
insect bites, as well as backaches.
Shochu’s alcohol content is low compared to other distilled spirits.
And also, because shochu is typically enjoyed blended with hot water and
with a meal, it is easier on the stomach and digestive system than hard
liquor.
However, just like any other alcoholic drink, you can get a hangover from
overindulging in shochu, and excessive drinking can harm your internal
organs. Pregnant women should avoid drinking shochu, and you should never
drive after drinking shochu.
Shochu and Possible Health Effects Here’s another reason to adopt shochu - various scientific research suggests that drinking Authentic Shochu helps maintain a healthy heart and arteries. For example, a 1998 research project by Hiroyuki Sumi MD. PhD. of Kurashiki Art and Science University shows that Authentic Shochu activates several enzymes that help dissolve thrombus. This and other health claims of Authentic Shochu – such as suppressing cardiac infarction and arteriosclerosis, uplifting mood, alleviating stress and prevention of obesity – have been featured in various Japanese TV programs, including the highly popular Omoikkiri TV on the NTV Network in 2000. The graph on the right illustrates the changes in the level of active blood plasmin, which is believed to be effective in dissolving thrombus, after drinking each of the six different alcoholic beverages. |
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