Episode 89: Absinthe: Thujone, Toxicity and the Myths of the Green Fairy

This week on The Tox Lab, we're diving into the world of absinthe, the infamous "Green Fairy".We begin by exploring what absinthe actually is, from its botanical origins and traditional preparation to its rise in popularity and the myths that eventually surrounded it. We discuss why absinthe became associated with hallucinations, madness, and toxicity, and how these stories contributed to its controversial reputation and prohibition.We then turn to the toxicology of absinthe and examine thujone, the compound often identified as the toxin responsible for "absinthism". We explore how thujone affects the central nervous system, what the evidence actually tells us about thujone toxicity, and whether reported cases of absinthe-related illness can really be attributed to the compound itself. We also take a closer look at what is known about thujone exposure and toxicity in general, discussing how neurological symptoms can arise at high doses and why interpreting reports of adverse effects is challenging when modern toxicological data is limited or based on experimental models rather than real-world exposure.Finally, we bring these threads together by separating fact from fiction, unpacking some of the most persistent myths surrounding absinthe, including whether it truly causes hallucinations and what ultimately led to its bans in many countries.Join us as we explore the chemistry, pharmacology, and toxicology of absinthe, and ask whether the notorious "Green Fairy" really deserved its dangerous reputation, or if its legacy is more myth than science.Hope you enjoy!Links to papers we discussed:https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC1475830/ https://ift.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/epdf/10.1111/1750-3841.14273 Disclaimer: All opinions are our own.Find us on instagram: @the_tox_labEmail us here: [email protected] out our new website: https://thetoxlab.co.uk/ Support us here: https://buymeacoffee.com/thetoxlab