It was actually called "Haymaker's Switchel" because it was consumed by fellows hand-mowing hay on hot summer days. It's a "sports drink" from the 18th century.
Water
Cider Vinegar
Real Molasses*
Ginger
What you end up with is some calories, some is sugar and some is carbs which release slower than the sugar, some potassium, and the vinegar gives you electrolytes and helps regulate the sugar.
IF you use some raw honey, it helps boost resistance to allergens
They didn't know all of that back then, they just knew that it refreshed a field laborer better than just plain water.
* "Real" molasses is not blackstrap molasses as the video mentions not using blackstrap or sulfured molasses. Modern made molasses that is sold for cooking actually has all of the sugar removed at the plant, then they add some sugar back in when they sell it for baking. Sorghum syrup or Sorghum molasses is probably a better choice today than supermarket molasses, but you have to get it from a brewing supply house. Raw honey or unheated honey you will need to know a beekeeper, or pay $$ at the organic food store. OH it has to be "local" produced honey to give you any allergy benefits. Otherwise you get a boost vs. the allergens where the honey was harvested, and not where you live and are exposed to allergens.
LD
