According to popular tradition, tomorrow, like every August 1, believers must drink rue to "frighten away the evils of winter" and to prepare the body "for the heat of summer."The "heating" that alcohol provides, on the other hand, would lead to the belief that the concoction would help prevent flu-like states.Rue has many beneficial properties.It is digestive, diuretic, sedative and is sometimes used to stimulate appetite.But you also have to be careful not to take it in large quantities.The most orthodox maintain that the drink or three of tea with rue should be drunk on an empty stomach.The danger is, of course, getting dizzy, and losing the desire to face the work rigors of the day.The tradition apparently dates back to the Guarani Indians, who would have already recognized the medicinal capacities of rue macho, used internally with success against parasites and certain gastrointestinal discomforts and externally to calm the burning and irritation of bug and vermin bites.Rue, on the other hand, according to popular belief, is a plant that should not be missing in any house, as it is conceived as a true spell against bad vibes, the envy of others and bad luck.© EL LIBERAL SA (see mobile version) Editorial Director: Lic. Gustavo Eduardo Ick Santiago del Estero / Argentine Republic