America still runs on snake oil, but not like the good old days. Every few years, some criminal chemist discovers and markets a concoction which "health" stores and urban delis sell to the bridge and tunnel crowd. Once the FDA figures it out, it's gone. Generally related to caffeine but often far worse.
Hadacol was the one which inspired lore and legend. A Southern slop with a potent mixture of B-Vitamins and alcohol from New Orleans. While the instructions were a teaspoon four times a day, it was sold by the glass in after-hours clubs and dry counties.
The powerful stuff was invented and marketed by Lousiana State Senator Dudley J. LeBlanc and even sold in pharmacies. The senator was pretty good at promotions. Witness the Captain Hadacol SUPER HERO who appeared in an official comic book. He doesn’t look so good until he pulls himself to the fridge and pulls a draw. Even sullen kids with no pep could benefit from a swig. My Hadacol token here was good for 25 cents off.
The drink inspired all manner of celebratory songs, mostly by rockabilly types aimed at white trash. Famously Professor Longhair had the best Hadacol song, and you can find it online.
