What is carrulim and why do Paraguayans drink it on August 1?

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Carrulim is a traditional Paraguayan drink made from a mixture of caña (a local cane sugar spirit), ruda (rue), and lemon.1

On August 1, many Paraguayans consume this concoction based on long-standing Guaraní beliefs. It is thought that the drink brings happiness, wards off evil, and protects one's health. Furthermore, there is a widespread cultural belief that the month of August is a period prone to misfortune and bad luck, and drinking carrulim is considered a necessary ritual to safeguard against these negative influences.1