Alcohol and the molecule to which it’s first
metabolized, acetalde-hyde, disrupt many
systems and organs in the body. Their
constant presence can therefore cause a broad
range of serious and even fatal diseases.
The Source of Happiness and Oblivion
Observers of the human condition have
long remarked on the ways in which
alcohol helps people deal with that
condition. Here are two of the earliest and
simplest formulations, from the Ayurvedic
tradition of India, and from the Old
Testament.Wine is the foremost of all things that lead
to cheerfulness.
Abuse of wine is the foremost of all causes
that lead to loss of intelligence and
memory.
— Charaka-Samhita, ca. 400 BCE
Give strong drink unto him that is ready to