Russia Is Now Selling Alcohol From Vending Machines

We knew this day would come. Russia has made self-medicating more convenient by selling thornapple tincture, a medicine of 70% ethyl alcohol, from vending machines throughout the Kaluga region. The “medicine” purportedly eases heart pains, but is widely consumed by Russia’s most intense drinkers due to its high alcohol content and low cost. Now there is no need to lie to a pharmacist because vending machines will offer 100 ml bottles for just 20 rubles ($0.32) and they’re available 24 hours a day! Advertisements for the medicinal alcohol machines seem to know their audience. Without mentioning any medicinal properties, Boyarka24 machines promise huge revenue because demand for the “fluid” is skyrocketing thanks to “hard times.”