Absinthe is traditionally made from wormwood, aniseed, fennel and a number of
other herbs that vary according to the recipe. Because of its green color
Absinthe is often called the "green fairy".Absinthe was originally produced in
the 18th century as a healing elixir. However, this spirit, which is
traditionally drunk mixed with water, became very popular in France in the
second half of the 19th and early 20th century, especially among artists and
writers. At the height of its popularity, the drink had the reputation of being
addictive and causing serious health problems due to its thujone content. As
early as 1915, the drink was banned in a number of European states and the USA.
Modern studies have not been able to prove the suspicion of damage caused by the
consumption of absinthe; the health damage identified at that time is today
attributed to the poor quality of the alcohol and the high quantities of alcohol
consumed. Since 1998 Absinthe is available again in most European countries.