10 Best Herbal Syrups For Hangover

Herbal syrups for hangovers are natural remedies that combine various plant-based ingredients to help alleviate the symptoms of a headache, nausea, and fatigue caused by excessive alcohol consumption.

Common herbs used in these syrups include ginger, licorice root, turmeric, and echinacea, which are known for their anti-inflammatory and digestive properties. These syrups often also contain electrolytes and vitamins to replenish what is lost during alcohol-induced dehydration. They are typically easy to consume and can be mixed with water or tea for a soothing effect.

While they may not cure a hangover, they can provide relief and support the body's natural recovery process.

1. Chaste tree (Vitex agnus-castus)

Vitex agnus-castus, commonly known as chasteberry, has been traditionally used to support hormonal balance and may help alleviate some symptoms associated with hangovers, such as fatigue and mood swings.

When formulated into a herbal syrup, it can be easily absorbed by the body and may provide a calming effect on the nervous system. While it is not a cure for hangovers, it may aid in reducing the severity of symptoms by supporting liver function and promoting overall wellness. The syrup is often combined with other herbs like ginger or milk thistle to enhance its detoxifying properties.

However, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before using it, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are taking other medications.

2. Peppermint (Mentha piperita)

Mentha piperita, commonly known as peppermint, is often used in herbal syrups to help alleviate hangover symptoms due to its soothing and digestive properties.

These syrups typically combine peppermint with other herbs like ginger, lemon, and licorice to enhance their effectiveness in easing nausea, headaches, and stomach discomfort. The menthol in peppermint can help relax the muscles in the digestive tract, promoting better digestion and reducing bloating. Additionally, the refreshing scent of peppermint may help clear the mind and improve alertness after a night of heavy drinking.

While not a cure for a hangover, peppermint herbal syrups can serve as a natural and pleasant remedy to support recovery and comfort.

3. Thistle (Silybum marianum)

Silybum marianum, also known as milk thistle, is a herbal remedy commonly used in the form of syrup to support liver health and potentially alleviate hangover symptoms.

The active compound in milk thistle, silymarin, is believed to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that may help protect the liver from damage caused by excessive alcohol consumption. Herbal syrups containing silybum marianum are often marketed as natural detoxifiers that can aid in the body's recovery after a night of drinking. While some studies suggest that milk thistle may support liver function, more research is needed to confirm its effectiveness in specifically treating hangovers.

As with any herbal supplement, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional before use, especially for individuals with existing medical conditions or those taking other medications.

4. Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra)

Glycyrrhiza glabra, commonly known as licorice root, has been traditionally used in herbal medicine for its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties.

When prepared as a syrup, it can help alleviate the symptoms of a hangover by supporting liver function and reducing inflammation in the digestive tract. The syrup contains glycyrrhizin, a compound that may help detoxify the body and ease the effects of alcohol-induced dehydration. Its mild expectorant action can also soothe a sore throat and ease congestion often associated with hangovers.

While it is generally considered safe in moderate doses, excessive use may lead to side effects such as hypertension, so it should be used with caution.

5. Blessed thistle (Cnicus benedictus)

Cnicus benedictus, commonly known as blessed thistle, has been traditionally used in herbal remedies for its potential digestive and detoxifying properties.

While it is not a direct cure for hangovers, some herbal syrups containing Cnicus benedictus are believed to support liver function and aid in the body’s natural detoxification processes. These syrups may help alleviate some symptoms of a hangover, such as nausea and fatigue, by promoting digestion and reducing inflammation. However, it is important to note that scientific evidence supporting its effectiveness for hangovers is limited, and it should not replace proper hydration and rest.

As with any herbal remedy, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional before use, especially for individuals with pre-existing medical conditions or those taking other medications.

6. Catnip (Nepeta cataria)

Nepeta cataria, commonly known as catnip, has been traditionally used for its calming and digestive properties, and some herbal syrups incorporate it to help alleviate hangover symptoms.

These syrups often blend catnip with other herbs like ginger, chamomile, and peppermint to support digestion and reduce nausea. The mild sedative effects of catnip may help ease the anxiety and fatigue associated with a hangover. While scientific evidence on its effectiveness for hangovers is limited, many people report feeling more comfortable after consuming these herbal syrups.

As with any herbal remedy, it's advisable to consult a healthcare professional before use, especially for those with allergies or existing medical conditions.

7. Camellia (Camellia sinensis)

Camellia sinensis, the plant from which green and black teas are derived, contains compounds that may support liver function and aid in the detoxification process, making it a potential ingredient in herbal syrups designed to alleviate hangover symptoms.

These syrups often blend Camellia sinensis extracts with other herbal ingredients like ginger, turmeric, and milk thistle to enhance their detoxifying and anti-inflammatory properties. While not a cure for hangovers, these syrups may help reduce nausea, fatigue, and headaches by supporting the body’s natural recovery processes. Some formulations also include antioxidants and vitamins to replenish nutrients depleted during alcohol consumption.

However, it’s important to note that these syrups should not replace hydration and rest, which are essential for full recovery from a hangover.

8. Turmeric (Curcuma longa)

Curcuma longa, commonly known as turmeric, has been traditionally used for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, and recent studies suggest it may aid in alleviating hangover symptoms.

Turmeric-based herbal syrups are gaining popularity as natural remedies for hangovers due to their potential to reduce inflammation and support liver function. These syrups typically contain curcumin, the active compound in turmeric, which may help in detoxifying the body and easing nausea associated with alcohol consumption. While they are not a cure for hangovers, they can serve as a complementary support to conventional remedies.

However, it's important to consult a healthcare professional before using turmeric syrups, especially for individuals with existing health conditions or those on medication.

9. Black pepper (Piper nigrum)

Piper nigrum, commonly known as black pepper, has been traditionally used in herbal remedies for its potential to aid in hangover relief.

The active compound in black pepper, piperine, is believed to enhance the absorption of other nutrients and may support liver function, which can be beneficial after alcohol consumption. While there is limited scientific evidence specifically linking black pepper syrup to hangover relief, some people use it as a natural remedy to alleviate symptoms like nausea and fatigue. Herbal syrups containing black pepper are often combined with other ingredients like ginger or honey to improve taste and effectiveness.

It's important to note that while these syrups may offer some comfort, they should not replace proper hydration, rest, and medical advice if severe hangover symptoms persist.

10. Ginger (Zingiber officinale)

Zingiber officinale, commonly known as ginger, has been traditionally used to alleviate the symptoms of a hangover due to its anti-inflammatory and digestive properties.

Ginger herbal syrups are often formulated with other soothing ingredients like honey, lemon, or turmeric to enhance their effectiveness. These syrups can help ease nausea, reduce inflammation, and support the body's natural detoxification processes after excessive alcohol consumption. They are typically easy to consume and can be taken as a quick remedy to soothe the stomach and provide energy.

While not a cure for hangovers, ginger syrups offer a natural and comforting option for relief.