Arrack is spirit-based liquor, distilled from fermented fruit, grains or sugarcane. The process is simple and requires the use of minimal equipment. It is a popular form of intoxication in Asia, especially among those who belong to the lower levels of the income strata.
In the 19th century, palm toddy-based arrack made in Sri Lanka was immensely popular. In today's world, though, it is Indonesia that makes the best arrack.
In the East Indies and the Middle East, arrack is distilled from the fermented sap of the toddy palm or from fermented molasses, rice or other raw materials.
Arrack is also popularly known as rack, raki and arak.
Ethyl alcohol, or ethanol, is the base for all alcoholic drinks, including hooch. The only difference is that, in hooch, a dash of methyl spirit is added for that extra 'kick'. Besides, it is both cheap and easily accessible.
But if the quantity of methyl is too much, the concoction becomes poisonous. In fact methyl spirit, which is generally used as fuel for lighting and heating purposes, is unfit for human consumption. In both Kerala and Tamil Nadu, it has been the killer ingredient in hooch tragedies.
The effects of methyl-mixed country liquor vary. Small amounts produce calmness and relaxed muscles, but larger doses cause slurred speech, staggering gait and altered perception. Very large doses can cause respiratory problems, depression, night-blindness, other vision problems, coma and even death.
Regular use of country liquor results in physical and psychological addiction. Those who are used to taking large quantities and suddenly stop can experience severe withdrawal symptoms, including anxiety, insomnia, tremors, delirium, convulsions and possible death.
Kerala excise officials who have impounded truckloads of methyl spirit point out that the spirit is usually smuggled in from Karnataka. In Uttar Pradesh and Orissa, battery water is used for the quick fermentation of country liquor. In the dry state of Gujarat, paint water is mixed with spirit to make these illegal brews even more heady.