Hangover Causes, Medicinal Herbs And Herbal Preparations
Hangover is a state of physical and mental discomfort caused by excessive consumption of alcohol, characterized by symptoms such as headache, fatigue, nausea, and dehydration.
Herbal remedies have been used for centuries to alleviate these symptoms, offering a natural and effective solution to treat hangovers.
Herbs like peppermint, ginger, and passionflower are commonly used due to their anti-inflammatory and calming properties, which help to soothe the stomach and reduce nausea.
Preparations such as ginger tea, peppermint oil, and passionflower tincture can be particularly effective in treating hangovers, as they allow the body to absorb the active compounds quickly and efficiently, providing rapid relief from symptoms.
What causes hangover?
The primary causes of hangover are the accumulation of toxic substances, such as acetaldehyde, in the body due to excessive consumption of alcohol, particularly ethanol, and the subsequent dehydration and electrolyte imbalance caused by the body's attempt to metabolize these substances.
Secondary causes may include factors like poor sleep, consuming food or medication that irritates the stomach, and hormonal changes during menstruation, all of which can exacerbate the symptoms of a hangover.
Individuals with certain lifestyles, such as those who frequently engage in binge drinking, work late-night shifts, or consume large amounts of sugar and caffeine, may be more prone to developing hangovers.
Additionally, people with a family history of alcoholism or those who experience stress and anxiety may also be more susceptible to hangovers due to their body's increased sensitivity to the effects of alcohol.
What herbs heal hangover?
The medicinal herbs used to treat hangover are Ginkgo biloba, Milk thistle, and Peppermint, which have been traditionally used to alleviate symptoms associated with excessive alcohol consumption.
Ginkgo biloba has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, thanks to its bioactive compounds such as flavonoids and terpenoids, which can help reduce liver damage and inflammation.
Milk thistle's silymarin compound has hepatoprotective and antioxidant effects, which can help protect the liver from alcohol-induced damage and promote its recovery.
Meanwhile, Peppermint's menthol and limonene compounds can help alleviate nausea and vomiting, common symptoms of hangover, due to their antiemetic and digestive-aiding properties.
What preparations treat hangover?
The herbal preparations used to treat hangover are varied and often involve teas, infusions, and tinctures that aim to replenish lost electrolytes, soothe the stomach, and alleviate headaches.
A warm infusion of a flowering plant rich in flavonoids can help to calm the digestive system, while a cooling tea made from the leaves of a plant native to Europe can reduce inflammation and ease pain.
A refreshing tincture of a citrusy root can stimulate digestion and boost energy levels, while a soothing drink made from the petals of a fragrant flower can help to rebalance the body's fluids.
Additionally, a stimulating infusion of a plant commonly used in Asian medicine can help to clear the mind and reduce the severity of hangover symptoms.
The articles in the following links discuss in detail the best herbal preparation used to treat hangover.