10 Best Herbal Essential Oils For Hangover

Herbal essential oils such as peppermint, lavender, and ginger are often used to help alleviate hangover symptoms due to their calming and digestive properties.

Peppermint oil can help soothe nausea and improve mental clarity, while lavender is known for its ability to reduce stress and promote relaxation. Ginger oil is particularly effective in easing stomach discomfort and combating the effects of alcohol-induced dehydration. These essential oils can be used through aromatherapy, topical application, or diffusion to provide relief.

However, it's important to use them safely and consult a healthcare professional, especially if you have any allergies or medical conditions.

1. Rosmarinus officinalis

Rosmarinus officinalis, commonly known as rosemary, is a popular herb whose essential oil is widely used for its aromatic and therapeutic properties.

The essential oil of rosemary contains compounds like cineole and camphor, which are known for their stimulating and refreshing effects on the mind and body. When used for hangover relief, rosemary essential oil may help to improve mental clarity and reduce feelings of fatigue, often associated with alcohol consumption. It can be diffused, applied topically (after dilution), or used in inhalation techniques to support overall well-being during recovery.

While it is not a cure for hangovers, rosemary essential oil can be a natural complement to help alleviate some of the discomforts associated with excessive alcohol intake.

2. Vitex agnus-castus

Vitex agnus-castus, also known as chasteberry, is a herbal essential oil that has been traditionally used to support hormonal balance and alleviate symptoms of menstrual discomfort.

While not a direct cure for hangovers, it may help reduce some associated symptoms like fatigue and irritability by promoting overall wellness. The essential oil is often used in aromatherapy to calm the nervous system and ease tension, which can be beneficial during a recovery period. Some studies suggest that chasteberry may aid in liver function, which could support the body's detoxification process after alcohol consumption.

However, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before using essential oils for hangover relief, as they can interact with medications or have contraindications for certain individuals.

3. Piper nigrum

Piper nigrum, commonly known as black pepper, contains essential oils that have been traditionally used for their stimulating and digestive properties.

The essential oils derived from black pepper, particularly compounds like piperic acid and piperine, may help in alleviating some symptoms of a hangover by supporting liver function and aiding in the metabolism of alcohol. These oils can be used in aromatherapy or diluted in a carrier oil to promote circulation and reduce headache and fatigue associated with hangovers. However, it is important to note that while these oils may offer some supportive benefits, they should not replace proper hydration, rest, and a balanced diet in recovery.

Always consult a healthcare professional before using essential oils, especially in higher concentrations or for prolonged periods.

4. Mentha piperita

Mentha piperita, commonly known as peppermint, is a widely used herb in aromatherapy and natural remedies, particularly for its refreshing and invigorating essential oil.

The essential oil of peppermint contains powerful compounds like menthol and menthone, which can help alleviate the symptoms of a hangover by stimulating the mind and improving alertness. Its cooling effect can also help soothe headaches and nausea, which are common after excessive alcohol consumption. When used in diffusers, inhalers, or topical applications, peppermint essential oil can provide a natural and effective way to combat the discomfort of a hangover.

However, it is important to use it in moderation and consult with a healthcare professional if necessary.

5. Ginkgo biloba

Ginkgo biloba herbal essential oils are derived from the leaves of the ancient ginkgo tree, known for its cognitive-enhancing and antioxidant properties.

While not a direct cure for hangovers, these essential oils may help alleviate some symptoms by improving blood circulation and reducing inflammation. They are often used in aromatherapy to promote mental clarity and reduce fatigue, which are common after a night of heavy drinking. However, it is important to note that essential oils should be used with caution, as they are potent and may cause irritation if not diluted properly.

For best results, they can be diffused or applied topically in combination with other hangover remedies for a holistic approach to recovery.

6. Cinnamomum verum

Cinnamomum verum, commonly known as true cinnamon, contains essential oils that have been traditionally used to alleviate hangover symptoms.

The essential oil of cinnamon is rich in cinnamaldehyde, a compound known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help reduce the effects of alcohol-induced inflammation. When used aromatically or topically, cinnamon essential oil can help stimulate circulation and promote a sense of clarity, potentially easing headaches and fatigue associated with hangovers. However, it is important to dilute the oil properly before use to avoid skin irritation.

While some anecdotal evidence supports its use, scientific research on its efficacy for hangovers is limited, and it should not replace medical advice or treatment.

7. Curcuma longa

Curcuma longa, commonly known as turmeric, is a herbal plant that contains curcumin, a compound known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

While essential oils derived from Curcuma longa are not typically used for hangovers in traditional medicine, some alternative practitioners suggest they may help alleviate symptoms such as nausea and inflammation. These essential oils can be used in aromatherapy or diluted for topical application, potentially offering a calming effect. However, it is important to note that there is limited scientific evidence supporting the use of turmeric essential oils specifically for hangover relief.

As with any herbal remedy, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional before use, especially if you are experiencing severe or persistent hangover symptoms.

8. Salvia officinalis

Salvia officinalis, commonly known as sage, contains essential oils that have been traditionally used to support digestive and cognitive health.

The essential oils derived from sage, such as cineole and camphor, possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that may help alleviate some symptoms associated with a hangover, such as nausea and headaches. While there is limited scientific research on the specific effects of sage essential oils on hangovers, some studies suggest that its compounds can help detoxify the body and reduce oxidative stress caused by alcohol consumption. When used in aromatherapy or diluted in carrier oils, sage essential oils may promote mental clarity and ease gastrointestinal discomfort.

However, it is important to consult a healthcare professional before using essential oils, especially in conjunction with alcohol or medications.

9. Citrus sinensis

Citrus sinensis, commonly known as the sweet orange, is a source of valuable herbal essential oils that may offer relief for hangover symptoms.

These essential oils, extracted through cold pressing or distillation, contain compounds like limonene and linalool, which have natural anti-inflammatory and mood-enhancing properties. When used aromatically or topically, they can help alleviate headaches, nausea, and fatigue associated with a hangover. The refreshing scent of orange essential oil is also known to stimulate mental clarity and reduce stress, which can be beneficial after alcohol consumption.

While not a cure for hangovers, citrus sinensis essential oils may support the body's natural recovery process and provide a calming, revitalizing effect.

10. Zingiber officinale

Zingiber officinale, commonly known as ginger, is a widely used herbal plant whose essential oils have been explored for their potential to alleviate hangover symptoms.

The essential oils derived from ginger contain compounds such as gingerol and shogaol, which are known for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. These properties may help in reducing nausea, headaches, and fatigue—common symptoms associated with a hangover. Additionally, ginger essential oil is believed to stimulate digestion and promote the elimination of toxins from the body.

While more research is needed, some individuals use ginger essential oils in aromatherapy or as a topical application to support recovery after alcohol consumption.