Emoliente
An emoliente () is a traditional drink consumed principally in Peru. It is customary to drink it in the morning or evening. Various medicinal properties are attributed to "emolientes" and they are used to treat digestive, reproductive, respiratory and circulatory problems. "Emolientes" were introduced to Peru during the colonial era as a medicinal drink or tisane. In Lima they became popular to the point that there was an "emolientero" (emoliente seller) on practically every street corner. Characteristics. An "emoliente" is a drink based on roasted grains of barley, medicinal herbal extracts, sugar and lemon juice. Amongst the most commonly used  herbs are Andean horsetail, linseeds, alfalfa, ribwort plantain and "boldo". In recent years, "emolliente" sellers, especially those with mobile street carts, have been incorporating a range of medicinal plants into their drinks, some of which have been chosen due to their diuretic properties. These include cat's claw, maca, gale of the wind, "sangre de grado", "muña" and "Aloe". Other so-called "special" "emolientes" may include pollen, honey, "algarrobina", corn silk, spices (such as cinnamon) or infusions made from fruit (quince or pineapple) or potato skins.