Everyone who visited Latvia, by all means takes away in a suitcase or memoirs the Riga balm. This drink has long been a real symbol of the country, and such popularity has gained positive properties. But it is worth remembering that a black Riga balsam can bring not only good, but also harm. Side effects are in the most modern medicines, what can we say about the drink, whose composition was developed in 1762.
The benefits and harm of black Riga balsam
From the moment of creation until today the exact composition of the Riga balsam is kept in secret, it is generally known only that 24 components are used for its creation. These include: mint, lime blossom, valerian, melissa, brandy, balsamic birch buds, honey, blueberry and raspberry fruit, sugar, essential oils, ginger . Due to such a rich composition, the balsam has a number of healing properties:
- tones up, improves brain activity, accelerates metabolism and gives cheerfulness;
- improvement of the gastrointestinal tract;
- prevention of colds, increasing the body's resistance to colds;
- soothing effects for insomnia and stress, it is recommended to use before bedtime.
In addition, the Riga balsam is also capable of causing damage, which is mainly associated with the alcohol basis of the product. Although it is an alcoholic beverage, it should be consumed in therapeutic doses, otherwise there will be no benefit from it than from a bottle of vodka. Also you need to pay attention to the expiration date, after its expiration of medicinal properties the drink has not.
Categorically, you should not consume balm during pregnancy, breastfeeding, the presence of heart disease and alcohol dependence, a recent heart attack , a traumatic brain injury or a stroke. With care, Riga balsam should be consumed by allergy sufferers, if there is a pronounced reaction to honey, herbs and berries, then it is better to refuse the drink altogether.