Hangover: Causes, Medicinal Herbs and Herbal Preparations

A hangover is a collection of unpleasant physical and mental symptoms that occur after excessive alcohol consumption, including headaches, fatigue, nausea, and irritability.

The causes of hangover are attributed to the toxic byproducts of alcohol metabolism, such as acetaldehyde and other aldehydes, which disrupt normal bodily functions. If left untreated, hangovers can lead to dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, and increased risk of infections. To alleviate hangover symptoms, herbal remedies like ginger, peppermint, and feverfew can be used to soothe nausea and headaches.

However, it's essential to exercise caution and consult a healthcare professional before using medicinal herbs, especially if you're prone to allergies or have underlying health conditions.

This article explains in detail what are the causes of hangover, what medicinal herbs to use to relieve this problem and how to prepare these herbs to get the best results.

What are the main causes of hangover?

The main causes of hangover are due to the toxic effects of acetaldehyde, a byproduct of alcohol metabolism, which is produced when the liver converts ethanol into acetaldehyde via the enzyme alcohol dehydrogenase.

As acetaldehyde accumulates, it triggers inflammation and oxidative stress, leading to the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines and free radicals. The resulting damage to the brain, liver, and other organs contributes to the symptoms of hangover, including dehydration, headaches, nausea, and fatigue. Additionally, the loss of electrolytes and water due to increased urine production, known as diuresis, exacerbates dehydration and worsens hangover symptoms.

Research has shown that genetic variations in the ALDH2 gene, which codes for the enzyme responsible for metabolizing acetaldehyde, can increase the risk of hangover severity in certain individuals.

• Dehydration: Dehydration occurs when the body loses more fluids than it takes in, leading to a concentration of toxins in the bloodstream and an inability to effectively remove waste products, resulting in symptoms such as headaches, nausea, and fatigue, which are characteristic of a hangover.
• Congeners: Congeners are toxic compounds found in fermented beverages, such as whiskey and red wine, that can cause inflammation and damage to the brain and nervous system, leading to hangover symptoms like headaches and mood disturbances.
• Histamine: Histamine is a chemical released by the body in response to the breakdown of alcohol, which can cause blood vessels to dilate and lead to headaches, nausea, and increased heart rate, contributing to hangover symptoms.
• GABA: GABA is a neurotransmitter that helps regulate the activity of brain cells, and the sudden drop in GABA levels after drinking can lead to symptoms such as anxiety, tremors, and an increased heart rate, which are characteristic of a hangover.
• Cytokines: Cytokines are signaling molecules released by the body's immune system in response to the presence of toxins, such as those found in fermented beverages, which can cause inflammation and lead to hangover symptoms like fatigue and muscle pain.
• Acetaldehyde: Acetaldehyde is a toxic byproduct of alcohol metabolism that can cause damage to the brain and nervous system, leading to symptoms such as headaches, nausea, and mood disturbances, which are characteristic of a hangover.
• Oxidative Stress: Oxidative stress occurs when the body's antioxidant defenses are overwhelmed by the production of free radicals, which can cause damage to cells and contribute to hangover symptoms like fatigue and muscle pain.
• Glucose Depletion: Glucose depletion occurs when the body's stores of glucose are depleted due to the metabolism of alcohol, leading to a decrease in energy levels and an increase in symptoms such as fatigue and irritability, which are characteristic of a hangover.
• Electrolyte Imbalance: Electrolyte imbalance occurs when the body's stores of essential minerals, such as potassium and sodium, become disrupted due to the loss of fluids and the presence of toxins, leading to symptoms such as muscle cramps and fatigue, which are characteristic of a hangover.
• Acidosis: Acidosis occurs when the body's pH levels become imbalanced due to the presence of toxins, such as those found in fermented beverages, which can cause symptoms such as headaches and nausea, contributing to hangover symptoms.
• Neurotransmitter Imbalance: Neurotransmitter imbalance occurs when the body's levels of neurotransmitters, such as serotonin and dopamine, become disrupted due to the presence of toxins, leading to symptoms such as mood disturbances and irritability, which are characteristic of a hangover.

What are the primary medicinal plants used for hangover?

The main medicinal herbs used for hangover are Zingiber officinale, Ginkgo biloba, Curcuma longa, Cinchona officinalis, Panax ginseng, Withania somnifera, Glycyrrhiza glabra, Artemisia absinthium, Mentha x piperita, Passiflora incarnata.

Zingiber officinale, commonly known as ginger, has anti-inflammatory properties that can help alleviate nausea and vomiting, which are common symptoms of a hangover. Curcuma longa, or turmeric, contains curcumin, a compound with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain. Ginkgo biloba and Panax ginseng have been shown to improve blood circulation and reduce inflammation, which can help alleviate hangover symptoms.

Withania somnifera, commonly known as ashwagandha, has adaptogenic properties that can help reduce stress and anxiety, while Cinchona officinalis, Glycyrrhiza glabra, Artemisia absinthium, and Mentha x piperita have been used to alleviate nausea and vomiting, and Passiflora incarnata can help reduce anxiety and promote relaxation.

• Zingiber officinale: Zingiber officinale, commonly known as ginger, helps alleviate hangover symptoms due to its anti-inflammatory properties, which can reduce nausea and vomiting associated with hangovers.
• Ginkgo biloba: Ginkgo biloba may help alleviate hangover symptoms by improving blood flow and reducing inflammation, which can aid in the recovery of the brain and body after excessive alcohol consumption.
• Curcuma longa: Curcuma longa, or turmeric, contains curcumin, a compound with potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress caused by hangover symptoms.
• Cinchona officinalis: Cinchona officinalis, or cinchona, contains quinine, which can help alleviate hangover symptoms by reducing inflammation and nausea, although its effectiveness is largely anecdotal.
• Panax ginseng: Panax ginseng, or ginseng, may help alleviate hangover symptoms by improving cognitive function and reducing fatigue, possibly due to its adaptogenic properties, which can help the body adapt to stress.
• Withania somnifera: Withania somnifera, or ashwagandha, is an adaptogen that may help alleviate hangover symptoms by reducing stress and inflammation, and improving cognitive function, which can aid in recovery after excessive alcohol consumption.
• Glycyrrhiza glabra: Glycyrrhiza glabra, or licorice root, contains compounds that may help alleviate hangover symptoms by reducing inflammation and improving digestion, which can aid in the recovery of the body after excessive alcohol consumption.
• Artemisia absinthium: Artemisia absinthium, or wormwood, is not typically recommended for hangover relief due to its potential toxicity, and its effectiveness is largely anecdotal.
• Mentha x piperita: Mentha x piperita, or peppermint, may help alleviate hangover symptoms by reducing nausea and improving digestion, possibly due to its menthol content, which can aid in the recovery of the body after excessive alcohol consumption.
• Passiflora incarnata: Passiflora incarnata, or passionflower, is not typically recommended for hangover relief due to its potential sedative effects, and its effectiveness is largely anecdotal.

What are the main herbal preparations used for hangover?

The main herbal preparations used for hangover are Tincture, Decoction, Elixir, Salve, Capsule, Gummies, Suppository, Powder, Tea, Poultice.

Tincture is made from concentrated plant extracts, often used for its high bioavailability and rapid absorption, providing quick relief from hangover symptoms. Decoction involves boiling herbs in water to release their active compounds, commonly used to treat dehydration and stomach issues associated with hangovers. Elixir, a sweet liquid solution, is often used to mask the taste of bitter herbs, while Salve and Suppository provide localized relief for headaches and stomach cramps.

Capsule, Gummies, Powder, and Tea offer more convenient forms of herbal consumption, while Poultice can be applied topically to reduce inflammation and promote healing.

• Tincture: A tincture made from the plant Ginkgo biloba helps with hangover by reducing inflammation and improving blood flow to the brain, which can alleviate headaches and fatigue.
• Decoction: A decoction made from the root of the plant Withania somnifera helps with hangover by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation caused by excessive alcohol consumption.
• Elixir: An elixir made from the plant Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) helps with hangover by replenishing electrolytes and antioxidants in the body, which can help alleviate dehydration and hangover symptoms.
• Salve: A salve made from the plant Peppermint (Mentha piperita) helps with hangover by providing relief from nausea and headaches through its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
• Capsule: A capsule made from the plant Milk Thistle (Silybum marianum) helps with hangover by supporting liver health and reducing oxidative stress caused by excessive alcohol consumption.
• Gummies: Gummies made from the plant Ginger (Zingiber officinale) help with hangover by alleviating nausea and reducing inflammation in the stomach.
• Suppository: A suppository made from the plant Valerian root (Valeriana officinalis) helps with hangover by promoting relaxation and reducing muscle tension caused by excessive alcohol consumption.
• Powder: A powder made from the plant Activated charcoal (Charcoal) helps with hangover by absorbing toxins and reducing nausea caused by excessive alcohol consumption.
• Tea: A tea made from the plant Peppermint (Mentha piperita) helps with hangover by providing relief from nausea and headaches through its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
• Poultice: A poultice made from the plant Willow bark (Salix alba) helps with hangover by reducing inflammation and alleviating pain caused by excessive alcohol consumption.