Beer is a unique drink for many reasons. It's a great drink to have with friends, and it's reasonably priced, but there's a lot more to this golden liquid than just that.
History of beer
Beer brewing is one of the oldest practices of humankind. Ancient Egyptians and Babylonians have been cultivating barley grain since 6000 BC. Brewing began by accident when barley loaves fermented after being left out in the rain. The 'beer' was sipped after dates and honey were added to the 'brew'. In ancient Egypt, beer was even used as a currency. However, the spread of Islam around 800 AD wiped off Egyptian brewing.
Germany and the Czech Republic are today's leading beer producers in Europe, but beer was not made in these parts until 800 BC. After crushing numerous Germanic tribes in 100 BC, the Romans (who had been fermenting wine for a long time) stole the knowledge of beer brewing and spread it over the continent. The Danes and Saxons were the first to bring beer to Britain. Beer was brewed at monasteries during the Dark and Middle Ages.
Due to its alcoholic component, beer proved to be a beneficial and safe supply of fluids for the populace during the Black Death (and since in times of water-based disease epidemics). The German Purity Law was established in 1516 by the Bavarian Dukes Wilhelm IV and Ludwig X. According to the law, only barley, hops, yeast, and water were allowed to be used in the brewing of beer. Today, only a small percentage of breweries follow the purity law. Several big breweries were built in England as a result of the industrial revolution. The microscope revolutionised science by allowing for the discovery of yeast and thorough research of the fermentation process (Louis Pasteur was primarily responsible for this work.)
New specialised yeast strains were developed, enabling the production of a wide variety of lagers and beers. Prohibition in the United States nearly devastated the brewing sector in the 1920s. Even today, the popularity of beer in the United States is eclipsed by that of lager. Beer can now be stored and enjoyed year-round thanks to the invention of the refrigerator. The legalisation of homebrewing in the United Kingdom in 1978 only added to the country's enthusiasm for the beverage.
Also read: 'Beer' with us!
On the occasion of International Beer Day, we've compiled a list of some of the ways that beer can enhance your hair and skin.
Beer skincare:
- The vitamins in beer can help reduce acne breakouts and bring a natural glow to your skin. Try making a beer face pack at home, and you'll notice the difference.
- Beer is a cleanser and helps soften dead skin cells, enhancing the smoothness of the skin. By adjusting the skin's pH levels, beer cleanses and nourishes it.
- When mixed with a little lemon juice, beer can clear skin pores and reduce brown spots. This will give you a fresh and clean skin look.
Beer haircare:
- A beer conditioner can make your hair look bouncy and silky. Wash your hair with beer, and you'll see how much volume you get. In addition, a beer wash is an easy way to get rid of frizzy hair.
- Protein is the building block of hair, and malt, which is used to make beer, is a high-protein source. Hair can be enhanced and made shinier by using beer.
It may be surprising to know that beer, or any other alcoholic beverage for that matter, can be good for our health. While wine is healthy for your heart, beer has many health benefits. Let us know your views in the comment section below.