Absinthe is a highly alcoholic spirit that originated in Switzerland in the late 18th century. It is made from a variety of herbs, including wormwood, anise, and fennel, which give it a distinct green color and unique flavor. Traditionally, it is diluted with water, which causes it to turn a milky white. Absinthe gained popularity in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, especially among artists and writers in Paris. However, it was banned in many countries due to concerns about its effects and the presence of thujone, a compound found in wormwood. Today, absinthe is legal in many places and is enjoyed for its historical significance and complex taste.