Before cocktails became popular at parties and bars, these were first concocted to use as medicine. The first glass was created by Spanish explorer Sir Francis Drake in 1586 aboard a ship to ensure his crew members did't get seasick, according to Cocktail Revolution.
Historians said Drake used four key ingredients when making the medicinal mixture, similar to what alchemists also used to cure minor ailments in those days. Those ingredients were:
- Mint, for easing stomach discomfort
- Lime, for treating and preventing scurvy, which was common among sailors at that time, according to Ask A Biologist
- Bark from the chuchuhuasi tree, to cure dysentery or gastroenteritis, according to Discovering Bristol
- Cane sugar, to lend a sweet taste to the mix
The drink allowed Drake and his sailors to proceed with their adventures at sea without any incidents. Eventually, the concoction became known as El Draque, after Drake's nickname. However, in the 21st century, this drink is more commonly known as the mojito, with a few variations, according to Delicious History Blog.
Today, some bartenders still prepare the drink with its original ingredients or only by adding sparkling water to strengthen its taste. And just like how it was originally created, today's El Draque is still believed to have medicinal effects, according to Uncommon Caribbean.
The infographic below shows the basics of mixing an El Draque.
