10 Best Herbal Teas For Hangover

Herbal teas can be a natural and soothing remedy for alleviating hangover symptoms.

Teas such as peppermint, ginger, and chamomile are commonly recommended for their digestive and calming properties. Peppermint tea helps soothe nausea and ease stomach discomfort, while ginger tea can reduce inflammation and support digestion. Chamomile tea promotes relaxation and may help ease headaches associated with a hangover.

Combining these herbal teas with hydration and rest can provide a gentle way to recover from the effects of alcohol.

1. Thistle (Silybum marianum)

Silybum marianum, commonly known as milk thistle, is a herbal remedy often used in herbal teas to support liver health and may help alleviate some symptoms of a hangover.

The active compound in milk thistle, silymarin, is believed to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that can protect the liver from damage caused by excessive alcohol consumption. Drinking milk thistle tea after a night of heavy drinking may help detoxify the body and reduce feelings of nausea, fatigue, and headache associated with a hangover. However, it is important to note that while milk thistle may offer some supportive benefits, it should not be seen as a cure for alcohol-related ailments or a substitute for adequate hydration and rest.

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

2. Camellia (Camellia sinensis)

Camellia sinensis, the plant from which green, black, and white teas are derived, contains antioxidants and caffeine that may help alleviate hangover symptoms.

The caffeine in Camellia sinensis tea can help counteract the drowsiness caused by alcohol, while its antioxidants support liver function and may reduce inflammation. Some studies suggest that the polyphenols in these teas can aid in detoxifying the body and replenishing essential nutrients lost during alcohol consumption. However, it is important to note that excessive caffeine intake may exacerbate dehydration and anxiety, so moderation is key.

While Camellia sinensis tea is not a cure-all for hangovers, it can be a beneficial complement to hydration and rest in the recovery process.

3. Chaste tree (Vitex agnus-castus)

Vitex agnus-castus, commonly known as chasteberry, has been traditionally used in herbal medicine for its potential to support hormonal balance and alleviate symptoms of premenstrual syndrome.

While not a cure for hangovers, some studies suggest that chasteberry may help reduce inflammation and support liver function, which could aid in the body's recovery after excessive alcohol consumption. Herbal teas made from vitex are often consumed for their calming properties and may help ease nausea and headaches associated with hangovers. However, more research is needed to fully understand its efficacy in treating hangover symptoms.

As with any herbal remedy, it’s important to consult a healthcare provider before using chasteberry, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are taking medications.

4. Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis)

Rosmarinus officinalis, commonly known as rosemary, is a fragrant herb that has been traditionally used in herbal teas to help alleviate hangover symptoms.

The essential oils in rosemary, such as pinene and camphor, are believed to support liver function and aid in the detoxification process, which can be beneficial after excessive alcohol consumption. Rosemary tea may also help reduce headache and nausea, common symptoms of a hangover, by improving blood circulation and reducing inflammation. Additionally, its antioxidant properties may help neutralize free radicals caused by alcohol metabolism.

While rosemary tea is not a cure-all for hangovers, it can serve as a soothing and supportive remedy when consumed in moderation as part of a holistic recovery approach.

5. Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra)

Glycyrrhiza glabra, commonly known as licorice root, has been traditionally used in herbal teas to help alleviate hangover symptoms.

This herb contains compounds like glycyrrhizin, which may support liver function and aid in the metabolism of alcohol. Drinking licorice root tea can help soothe the stomach and reduce inflammation, common side effects of excessive alcohol consumption. It is often combined with other herbs like ginger or lemon to enhance its detoxifying properties.

While licorice root tea is generally considered safe in moderate amounts, excessive consumption may lead to side effects such as hypertension, so it should be used with caution.

6. Stinging nettle (Urtica dioica)

Urtica dioica, commonly known as stinging nettle, is a herbal remedy that has been traditionally used to support overall health and detoxification.

When brewed into a tea, it can help alleviate some symptoms of a hangover by promoting diuresis and supporting liver function. The high concentration of antioxidants and minerals in stinging nettle tea may help reduce inflammation and replenish essential nutrients depleted during alcohol consumption. However, it is important to note that while it may offer some relief, it should not be seen as a cure for hangovers or a substitute for responsible drinking habits.

As with any herbal remedy, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare professional before regular use, especially for those with existing health conditions or on medication.

7. Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla)

Matricaria chamomilla, commonly known as chamomile, is a popular herbal tea often used to alleviate hangover symptoms due to its calming and anti-inflammatory properties.

It contains compounds like apigenin, which may help reduce anxiety and promote relaxation, making it a soothing remedy after a night of excessive alcohol consumption. Chamomile tea is also believed to aid in digestion and may help ease nausea and stomach discomfort often associated with hangovers. While it does not directly neutralize alcohol, it can support the body’s recovery process by promoting rest and reducing stress.

However, it is important to note that chamomile should not replace proper hydration and rest, which are essential for full recovery from a hangover.

8. White water lily (Nymphaea alba)

Nymphaea alba, also known as white water lily, has been traditionally used in herbal remedies for its potential health benefits.

Its leaves and flowers contain compounds that may help in reducing inflammation and supporting liver function, which are crucial for recovery from a hangover. When brewed into a herbal tea, Nymphaea alba can help replenish electrolytes and soothe the digestive system, easing symptoms like nausea and fatigue. This tea is often combined with other herbs such as ginger or mint to enhance its detoxifying properties.

While it may not cure a hangover entirely, Nymphaea alba herbal tea can serve as a natural and soothing remedy to alleviate some of its uncomfortable effects.

9. Cumin (Cuminum cyminum)

Cuminum cyminum, commonly known as cumin, is often used in herbal teas to help alleviate hangover symptoms.

This aromatic spice contains compounds like thymol and carvacrol, which may support digestion and reduce inflammation. Drinking cumin herbal tea can help replenish electrolytes and ease nausea associated with a hangover. It also has mild diuretic properties that may aid in rehydration.

While not a cure-all, cumin tea can be a comforting and natural remedy to support recovery after excessive alcohol consumption.

10. Peppermint (Mentha piperita)

Mentha piperita, commonly known as peppermint, is often used in herbal teas to help alleviate hangover symptoms.

The refreshing scent and cooling properties of peppermint can help soothe nausea and ease digestive discomfort, which are common after excessive alcohol consumption. Peppermint tea may also help in reducing headaches and promoting a sense of clarity by improving circulation and reducing inflammation. Its mild diuretic effect can assist in rehydrating the body, which is essential during a hangover.

While it is not a cure-all, peppermint herbal tea can be a comforting and natural remedy to support recovery after a night of drinking.