What were the most used drugs in battles and wars?

score:6

Accepted answer

It's probably alcohol, with tobacco (nicotine) and caffeine at distant second and third.

These drugs don't directly enhance performance, but are great at maintaining morale. In the case of alcohol, although it impairs performance and is easily abused, can also increase courage - see the term Dutch Courage. Many historical militaries also practiced a "last drink" ritual before engaging in particularly risky battles, like Japan's bushi-nin. See also: https://skeptics.stackexchange.com/q/25250

For evidence that these drugs were widely used, look no further than soldiers' rations:

  • The C-ration included cigarettes and instant coffee
  • The Red Army's rations included a small amount of vodka
  • French rations included (very cheap) wine, and sometimes coffee

Upvote:2

The natural drug epinephrine (adrenaline).

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