Q. I have arthritis in my hands and my back. I heard that gin-soaked raisins would help the pain. Is that true? If so, what is the recipe for mixing, and what is the dose? I would prefer something without alcohol.
A. We have heard for years that gin-soaked raisins help some people with arthritis pain. Here is one example: “I am completely convinced that taking a teaspoon a day of gin-soaked raisins has done what the chiropractor could not do for my feet and ankles.
“I have a gardening business and MUST walk, shovel, rake and move around on uneven ground. I was in such pain it was becoming difficult to work, but this is my only source of income. Ibuprofen didn’t really help, but the raisins turned the condition around.”
Another reader offered this possible alternative to gin for soaking the raisins: “Mix two parts vinegar to one part honey. I just made some for my arthritic daughter to try. I used 1/4 cup honey and 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar, poured it into a 1/2 pint jar and added golden raisins until the jar was full. At 9 or 10 raisins a day, that should be plenty for her to see if it works or not.”
