The Beer That Had Medieval Drinkers Seeing Things
The Beer That Had Medieval Drinkers Seeing Things
Exploring the Surprising History of Black Henbane in Brewing
Craft beer today may pack a punch, but imagine drinking a brew so potent it caused hallucinations! In medieval Europe, that was a real risk. The culprit? A plant known as black henbane, or Hyoscyamus niger. This notorious nightshade family member was intentionally added to ales for its intoxicating—and sometimes frightening—effects.
Hyoscyamus niger -otherwise known as Henbane
The Strange Brew of Black Henbane
Before hops became the flavoring standard, medieval brewers often experimented with an array of herbs and plants, known collectively as “gruit.” Black henbane was a go-to ingredient in some regions. Its effects were intense: the plant could create a strong buzz, quicken inebriation, and even produce sensations far beyond ordinary drunkenness. For brewers, this meant happy (if slightly unhinged) patrons, thirsty for more. But the line between a good time and a hazardous experience was thin; just a bit too much henbane could lead to hallucinations and even dangerous health effects.
One peculiar trait of black henbane made it especially problematic: it causes a severe dry mouth. With every sip, drinkers grew thirstier, often downing pint after pint. For a 14th-century partygoer, that might sound ideal—until the hallucinations set in.
How Henbane Lost Its Place in Beer History
Henbane – Brittanica
By the early 1500s, the popularity of henbane-laced beer started to fade. Germany’s Beer Purity Law of 1516, or Reinheitsgebot, officially banned the use of ingredients like black henbane in favor of hops, which was safer, more affordable, and improved shelf life. Hops soon became the norm, and henbane was left behind, though not without lingering whispers of witchcraft and mysticism.
Since women often brewed beer, they were sometimes associated with the plant’s “magical” properties and faced accusations of witchcraft. In his 1827 Homeopathic Materia Medica, William Boericke even described the henbane experience as one of “mania,” highlighting its disturbing, almost diabolical effects.
Henbane as a Medieval Remedy
Henbane
While black henbane is best known for its wild effects in beer, it was also valued for its medicinal properties. Civilizations from ancient Greece to Persia used it in small doses to treat chronic pain, insomnia, epilepsy, and more. Although modern medicine has retained certain henbane compounds like hyoscyamine, it remains a toxic substance and should only be used under medical supervision.
The Safer—and Tastier—Alternative: Hops
Hops on the vine
Luckily, today’s brewers stick with hops, giving us beers that satisfy without the risk of hallucinations or worse. Curious about gruit ales? While they’re rare, a few craft breweries experiment with gruit-inspired recipes (minus the henbane, of course). It’s a fascinating throwback to the days before hops reigned supreme.
Next time you crack open a beer, raise a glass to hops and the steady hands of modern brewers. And if the idea of a henbane-laced ale has piqued your interest, remember: medieval brews were risky business. Hops not only bring bitterness but also a refreshing peace of mind—a perfect companion for today’s craft beer scene.
Cheers to history, mystery, and the safety of hops!
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- The Beer That Had Medieval Drinkers Seeing Things – Exploring the Surprising History of Black Henbane in Brewing
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