Always Has Been: Chapter 1: The Influence of Franciscus Sylvius on the Rise of Gin

In 1679, Dutch physician Franciscus Sylvius highlighted the medicinal potential of bitters, garnering attention throughout Europe. Sylvius espoused that gin, a liquor made from distilled plant extracts with a bitter profile, offered remarkable health benefits. This notion greatly resonated with the people, sparking a trend and increasing gin's popularity across the continent. The perceived health advantages of gin contributed to its widespread consumption and enduring cultural significance.