Texan Claims Snake Vodka a Healing Tonic

-April 2, 2008

A Texas rattlesnake rancher arrested for selling alcohol without a liquor license plans to fight the charges against him, claiming that his beverage is actually a healing tonic.

“Ancient Asian Elixir”
For over 20 years, Bayou Bob Popplewell, 63, has raised turtles and rattlesnakes at his Brazos River Rattlesnake Ranch, where he also concocts an “ancient Asian elixir” by putting rattlers in vodka bottles.

“It’s almost a spiritual thing,” Popplewell said.

According to Popplewell, customers of Asian descent believe his brew has medicinal qualities. A lecturer of Asian studies at the University of Texas said Popplewell’s claim is not without merit.

“Snake Alley”
In Taiwan, vendors sell a drink of strong liquor and snake gall bladder on a street referred to as “Snake Alley,” said Camilla Hseih. She said the drink is believed to improve sexual performance, like Viagra.

Permit Required
Still, authorities said Popplewell needs a permit to sell vodka. Over 400 bottles of snake vodka were confiscated from Popplewell’s ranch.

(Source: Associated Press)

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