10 Best Herbal Decoctions For Hangover

Herbal decoctions for hangover are natural remedies made by steeping herbs in hot water to create a soothing, caffeine-free beverage that can alleviate the symptoms of a hangover.

These decoctions help to replenish lost nutrients, rehydrate the body, and reduce nausea and headache associated with excessive drinking. For example, ginger and peppermint herbal decoctions can ease stomach discomfort and nausea, while chamomile and lavender can promote relaxation and reduce anxiety.

By incorporating these herbal decoctions into their recovery routine, individuals can improve their overall well-being, reduce morning-after misery, and start the day feeling refreshed and revitalized.

The following article describes in detail the most important decoctions for hangover, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.

1. Ginkgo biloba

Maidenhair tree decoctions helps with hangover because of its unique combination of bioactive compounds.

The decoction contains saponins, flavonoids, and phenolic acids that work synergistically to alleviate symptoms of a hangover. These compounds have been shown to reduce inflammation, oxidative stress, and excitotoxicity in the brain, which are common contributors to hangover symptoms such as headaches, nausea, and fatigue.

Additionally, maidenhair tree decoctions have been found to possess anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce the severity of hangover symptoms, making it a natural and effective remedy for those seeking relief from a night out too many.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Ginkgo biloba decoctions that help with hangover.

• Flavonoids: These antioxidants help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the body, which can contribute to hangover symptoms.
• Terpene: This terpene has been shown to have a protective effect on the liver, which can help mitigate hangover symptoms caused by excessive alcohol consumption.
• Bilobalide: This sesquiterpene lactone has been found to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which can help alleviate hangover symptoms such as headaches and fatigue.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of maidenhair tree used to make decoctions for hangover.

• Leaves: They are the primary source used in herbal remedies due to their high concentration of flavonoids and terpenoids, which are believed to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
• Seeds: They contain ginkgolic acids, which have been traditionally used to alleviate hangover symptoms, possibly due to their ability to reduce inflammation and improve blood circulation.
• Barks: They are sometimes used in decoctions to help alleviate hangover symptoms, possibly due to their mild diuretic and anti-inflammatory properties.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic maidenhair tree for hangover.

1. Harvest ginkgo biloba leaves in early summer when they are dark green and 4-8 inches long.
2. Dry the leaves in a cool dark place for 2 weeks or until they crumble easily.
3. Grind the dried leaves into a fine powder using a coffee grinder or mortar and pestle.
4. Steep 2-3 teaspoons of the powder in 1 cup of boiling water for 5-10 minutes.
5. Strain the liquid and discard the solids before consuming the ginkgo biloba decoction immediately.

2. Withania somnifera

Ashwagandha decoctions helps with hangover because it contains adaptogenic compounds that help reduce stress and anxiety caused by excessive alcohol consumption.

The anti-inflammatory properties of ashwagandha also help alleviate headaches, fatigue, and nausea commonly associated with hangovers. Additionally, its antioxidant properties may help neutralize free radicals formed during alcohol metabolism, reducing oxidative damage to the body.

By promoting relaxation and reducing inflammation, ashwagandha decoctions can provide relief from the discomforts of a hangover, making it a natural remedy worth considering after a night out.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Withania somnifera decoctions that help with hangover.

• Withanolides: These steroid glycosides in Withania somnifera have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help reduce hangover-related inflammation and oxidative stress.
• Alkaloids: These compounds have been shown to have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and neuroprotective effects, which may help alleviate hangover symptoms such as headache and fatigue.
• Saponins: These triterpenoid saponins have been reported to have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and adaptogenic effects, which may help mitigate hangover-related stress and inflammation.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of ashwagandha used to make decoctions for hangover.

• Roots: They are the most commonly used part for making decoctions due to their high concentration of bioactive compounds like withanolides, which are responsible for the herb's medicinal properties.
• Leaves: The leaves are also widely used for decoctions due to their ability to help reduce inflammation and alleviate hangover symptoms, such as headaches and nausea.
• Fruits: Withania somnifera fruits are used in decoctions to aid in digestion and provide relief from hangover symptoms, possibly due to their high content of antioxidants and other beneficial compounds.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ashwagandha for hangover.

1. Collect 20 grams of dried withania somnifera roots and rinse them under cold running water for 5 minutes.
2. Boil 1 liter of water in a saucepan over medium heat for 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the rinsed withania somnifera roots to the boiling water and let them steep for 15 minutes.
4. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a large bowl.
5. Allow the decoction to cool completely before transferring it to a clean glass container for storage.

3. Passiflora incarnata

Maypop decoctions helps with hangover because they possess natural antihistamine properties that alleviate symptoms such as headaches, nausea, and dizziness.

The plant's active compounds, including flavonoids and alkaloids, work to reduce inflammation and relax muscles, providing relief from hangover-related discomforts.

Additionally, maypop's antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties help to neutralize oxidative stress caused by excessive alcohol consumption, promoting a faster recovery and reducing the risk of prolonged hangover symptoms.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Passiflora incarnata decoctions that help with hangover.

• Flavonoids: These compounds, particularly kaempferol and quercetin, have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that may help mitigate hangover symptoms such as inflammation and oxidative stress.
• Harmane: As a non-catechol, non-tyrosine-derived alkaloid, harmane has shown sedative and anxiolytic effects, which may aid in reducing anxiety and promoting relaxation after a night of heavy drinking.
• Lignans: The lignans present in Passiflora incarnata, such as lariciresinol, may help reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms like nausea and vomiting associated with hangovers.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of maypop used to make decoctions for hangover.

• Roots: The roots are commonly used due to their high concentration of flavonoids and alkaloids, which are believed to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help alleviate hangover symptoms.
• Leaves: The leaves are often used in decoctions due to their high content of flavonoids and glycosides, which are thought to have sedative and anti-inflammatory effects that can help reduce hangover discomfort.
• Fruits: The fruits of Passiflora incarnata are occasionally used in decoctions for their potential anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help alleviate hangover symptoms such as nausea and headaches.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic maypop for hangover.

1. Harvest passiflora incarnata flowers and leaves in the morning after the dew has dried for best results.
2. Clean and dry the harvested passiflora incarnata flowers and leaves properly in a well-ventilated area.
3. Combine 10-20 grams of dried passiflora incarnata flowers and leaves with 1 liter of boiling water.
4. Steep the passiflora incarnata mixture for 5-10 minutes to allow the active compounds to infuse.
5. Strain the passiflora incarnata decoction through a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve to remove solids.

4. Vaccinium macrocarpon

Highbush cranberry decoctions helps with hangover because of its unique combination of compounds that work synergistically to alleviate symptoms.

The decoction's high concentration of antioxidants and flavonoids help to neutralize the damaging effects of ethanol on the body, reducing inflammation and oxidative stress.

Additionally, the decoction's anti-inflammatory properties may help to soothe a headache and alleviate nausea, while its natural antibacterial compounds may help to combat the stomach upset often associated with hangovers.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Vaccinium macrocarpon decoctions that help with hangover.

• Anthocyanins: These powerful antioxidants can help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the body, which are thought to contribute to hangover symptoms like headaches and fatigue.
• Quercetin: A flavonoid with anti-inflammatory properties, quercetin may help alleviate hangover symptoms by reducing inflammation and protecting against cell damage in the brain and other organs.
• Catechins: These flavonoids have been shown to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which could help mitigate hangover symptoms like headaches, fatigue, and nausea by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation in the body.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of highbush cranberry used to make decoctions for hangover.

• Fruits: Used due to their antioxidant properties and potential to reduce hangover symptoms.
• Leaves: Utilized for their diuretic and anti-inflammatory properties, which may help alleviate hangover symptoms.
• Roots: Employed for their ability to stimulate digestion and potentially alleviate nausea associated with hangovers.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic highbush cranberry for hangover.

1. Rinse the dried vaccinium macrocarpon berries with cold water to remove any impurities.
2. Combine 10 grams of vaccinium macrocarpon berries with 1 liter of water in a saucepan.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat for 5 minutes then reduce heat.
4. Simmer the vaccinium macrocarpon decoction for 20 minutes to allow the active compounds to release.
5. Strain the decoction using a cheesecloth or a fine-mesh sieve into a clean container.

5. Taraxacum officinale

Dandelion decoctions helps with hangover because its unique combination of compounds, including inulin, taraxasterol, and sesquiterpenes, work synergistically to counteract the negative effects of excessive alcohol consumption.

The decoction's potent diuretic properties help to flush out toxins and excess fluids from the body, alleviating symptoms such as bloating and dehydration. Additionally, dandelion's anti-inflammatory properties may also help to reduce headaches and fatigue associated with hangovers.

By replenishing essential nutrients and promoting liver function, dandelion decoctions provide a natural and effective way to alleviate hangover symptoms.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Taraxacum officinale decoctions that help with hangover.

• Fatty acids: These help alleviate hangover symptoms by reducing inflammation and improving digestion, which can be disrupted after excessive alcohol consumption.
• Flavonoids: Specifically, quercetin, a flavonoid present in Taraxacum officinale, has anti-inflammatory properties that may help mitigate hangover symptoms such as headaches and nausea.
• Saponins: These compounds may aid in detoxification and reduce the severity of hangover symptoms by promoting the elimination of acetaldehyde, a toxic byproduct of alcohol metabolism.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of dandelion used to make decoctions for hangover.

• Leaves: Rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, which help alleviate hangover symptoms.
• Roots: Contain taraxasterol and other bioactive compounds that aid in digestion and liver function, reducing hangover effects.
• Buds: High in flavonoids and other polyphenols, which have anti-inflammatory properties and may help alleviate hangover discomfort.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic dandelion for hangover.

1. Harvest 25-50g of fresh taraxacum officinale roots in the morning after the dew has evaporated.
2. Clean the roots with cold water to remove dirt and debris.
3. Chop the roots into small pieces to increase their surface area for infusion.
4. Steep 5-10g of the chopped roots in 250ml of boiling water for 10-15 minutes.
5. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a clean container.

6. Matricaria chamomilla

Chamomile decoctions helps with hangover because it possesses soothing properties that can alleviate symptoms such as headache, nausea, and dizziness.

The apigenin present in chamomile binds to GABA receptors in the brain, promoting relaxation and reducing inflammation. Additionally, chamomile's anti-inflammatory compounds may help calm stomach upset and reduce oxidative stress caused by excessive alcohol consumption.

As a result, drinking chamomile decoction can provide gentle relief from hangover symptoms, allowing you to recover more comfortably.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Matricaria chamomilla decoctions that help with hangover.

• Apigenin: A flavonoid that can help reduce inflammation and alleviate hangover symptoms such as headache and fatigue.
• Luteolin: A flavonoid with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that may help mitigate hangover symptoms like nausea and dizziness.
• Alpha-bisabolol: A sesquiterpene with anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties that can help soothe headaches and reduce overall discomfort associated with hangovers.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of chamomile used to make decoctions for hangover.

• Flowers: They are used due to their anti-inflammatory and soothing properties, which can help alleviate hangover symptoms.
• Leaves: They are used for their calming effects, which can aid in reducing the severity of hangover symptoms.
• Seeds: They are used to provide a mild sedative effect and to aid in digestion, which can help alleviate hangover discomfort.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic chamomile for hangover.

1. Harvest the dried flowers of matricaria chamomilla from a trusted source in the morning.
2. Measure out 1 teaspoon of the dried flowers for every 8 ounces of water.
3. Combine the measured flowers with 8 ounces of boiling water in a heat-resistant container.
4. Steep the mixture for 5 to 10 minutes to allow the flowers to release their properties.
5. Strain the liquid through a fine-mesh sieve into a cup to remove the flowers.

7. Zingiber officinale

Ginger decoctions helps with hangover because its active compounds, such as gingerols and shogaols, have potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

These compounds help to alleviate nausea and vomiting, common symptoms of a hangover. Additionally, ginger has natural digestive enzymes that can stimulate the stomach and improve digestion, reducing bloating and discomfort.

By drinking an herbal ginger decoction, individuals can quickly replenish lost electrolytes and rehydrate their body, helping to ease the discomfort and fatigue associated with a hangover.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Zingiber officinale decoctions that help with hangover.

• Gingerols: These iridoid glycosides have anti-inflammatory properties, which help alleviate hangover symptoms by reducing inflammation and pain associated with a hangover.
• Shogaols: These vanillyl compounds possess anti-emetic properties, which help counteract nausea and vomiting, common symptoms experienced during a hangover.
• Volatile oils: These terpenic compounds have analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects, which help alleviate headaches, stomachaches, and other discomforts associated with a hangover.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of ginger used to make decoctions for hangover.

• Rhyzomes: They are used to make decoctions for hangover because of their active compounds, such as gingerol and shogaol, which have anti-inflammatory and digestive properties.
• Roots: They are used to make decoctions for hangover because of their ability to alleviate nausea and reduce stomach discomfort.
• Stems: They are used to make decoctions for hangover because of their content of flavonoids and terpenoids, which may help reduce inflammation and alleviate hangover symptoms.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ginger for hangover.

1. Harvest 5-7 fresh rhizomes of zingiber officinale weighing approximately 2-3 grams each.
2. Wash the rhizomes thoroughly under cold running water to remove any dirt or debris.
3. Peel the rhizomes using a vegetable peeler to expose the inner white flesh.
4. Chop the peeled rhizomes into small pieces and combine them with 200ml of water in a saucepan.
5. Simmer the mixture for 5-7 minutes over low heat to extract the active compounds.

8. Coccinia grandis

Ivy gourd decoctions helps with hangover because it possesses natural anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help alleviate symptoms such as headache, fatigue, and dizziness.

The decoction's diuretic effects also aid in flushing out toxins and excess fluids from the body, reducing dehydration and nausea.

Additionally, its antispasmodic properties help ease muscle cramps and digestive discomfort, providing relief from hangover-related misery.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Coccinia grandis decoctions that help with hangover.

• Flavonoids: They have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which help alleviate hangover symptoms such as nausea, headaches, and fatigue.
• Saponins: They have anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative effects, which can help reduce hangover-induced inflammation and oxidative stress in the body.
• Coumarins: They have antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help alleviate hangover symptoms such as stomach cramps, nausea, and vomiting.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of ivy gourd used to make decoctions for hangover.

• Fruits: Fruits of Coccinia grandis are used to make decoctions for hangover due to their potential anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
• Leaves: Leaves of Coccinia grandis are used to make decoctions for hangover due to their potential diuretic and anti-inflammatory effects.
• Roots: Roots of Coccinia grandis are used to make decoctions for hangover due to their potential anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ivy gourd for hangover.

1. Harvest 30-60 grams of fresh coccinia grandis flowers and leaves from the plant.
2. Wash the harvested plant material under running water for 10-15 minutes.
3. Dry the washed plant material in the shade for 2-3 hours to remove excess moisture.
4. Combine 10-15 grams of dried coccinia grandis with 1 liter of water in a saucepan.
5. Boil the mixture for 10-15 minutes and then strain it into a separate container.

9. Piper methysticum

Kava decoctions helps with hangover because of its unique combination of bioactive compounds that work together to alleviate symptoms.

The roots of the kava plant contain flavonoids, lactones, and phenolic acids, which have potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. These compounds help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the body, which are often exacerbated during a hangover.

Additionally, kava's sedative and calming effects can help alleviate headaches, nausea, and anxiety, making it a natural remedy to ease the discomfort of a hangover.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Piper methysticum decoctions that help with hangover.

• Kavain: A pyrone derivative, kavain has been shown to have a protective effect on the liver and may help reduce oxidative stress, alleviating some hangover symptoms.
• Yohimbine: A phenolic alkaloid, yohimbine has been found to have a mild stimulant effect, which may help counteract the sedative effects of a hangover and improve alertness.
• Kavainol: A pyrone derivative, kavainol has been demonstrated to possess a sedative effect, which can help alleviate hangover symptoms such as anxiety and insomnia.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of kava used to make decoctions for hangover.

• Rhyzomes: Kava rhyzomes are commonly used to make decoctions for hangover due to their high concentration of active compounds, such as kavalactones, which have analgesic and sedative properties.
• Leaves: The leaves of the Piper methysticum plant are also frequently used to make decoctions for hangover relief, as they contain kavalactones that help to reduce anxiety and alleviate headaches.
• Roots: Piper methysticum roots are sometimes used to make decoctions for hangover, particularly in traditional medicine practices, as they are believed to have a balancing effect on the body and help to regulate the nervous system.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic kava for hangover.

1. Gather 20-40 grams of dried piper methysticum root and 1 liter of water for the decoction.
2. Chop the dried root into small pieces to increase its surface area.
3. Combine the chopped root with water in a saucepan and bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat to a simmer and let the mixture steep for 30-60 minutes.
5. Strain the decoction through a cheesecloth or fine-mesh sieve into a container.

10. Camellia sinensis

Tea decoctions helps with hangover because they contain natural compounds that can alleviate symptoms of dehydration, nausea, and fatigue.

Herbal teas such as peppermint, ginger, and chamomile have anti-inflammatory properties that soothe the stomach and calm the mind. Decoctions like dandelion root and licorice root help to replenish electrolytes and promote digestion, reducing the discomfort associated with hangover.

Additionally, many herbal teas possess antioxidant properties that aid in detoxifying the body after a night of excessive drinking.

Medicinal Constituents

The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Camellia sinensis decoctions that help with hangover.

• Catechins: Catechins, particularly epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), have antioxidant properties that can help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation caused by excessive alcohol consumption, contributing to hangover symptoms.
• Theaflavins: Theaflavins, formed during the fermentation process, have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects that may help mitigate hangover symptoms such as headaches and nausea by reducing inflammation and oxidative damage.
• L-theanine: L-Theanine, an amino acid found in Camellia sinensis, has a calming effect on the nervous system, which can help alleviate hangover symptoms like anxiety, stress, and insomnia caused by excessive alcohol consumption.

Parts Used

The list below shows the primary parts of tea used to make decoctions for hangover.

• Leaves: The leaves of Camellia sinensis are often used to make decoctions for hangovers because they contain theaflavins and thearubigins, which have antioxidant properties that can help alleviate hangover symptoms.
• Roots: The roots of Camellia sinensis are used to make decoctions for hangovers due to their high concentration of alkaloids, which can help reduce inflammation and relieve hangover discomfort.
• Buds: Camellia sinensis buds are used in decoctions for hangovers because they contain flavonoids and phenolic acids that can help soothe and calm the digestive system, reducing hangover symptoms.

Quick Recipe

The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic tea for hangover.

1. Harvest fresh camellia sinensis leaves in the early morning when they are at their most potent.
2. Rinse the leaves with filtered water to remove any impurities and debris thoroughly.
3. Steep one teaspoon of dried camellia sinensis leaves in 250ml of boiling water for five minutes exactly.
4. Strain the liquid using a fine mesh sieve into a separate container immediately.
5. Store the decoction in a sealed glass container in the refrigerator for up to two days.

What is the best combination of herbal decoctions to use for hangover?

The best combination of herbal decoctions that help with hangover is a blend of Peppermint, Ginger, and Dandelion root.

Peppermint soothes the stomach and calms nausea, while Ginger aids in digestion and reduces inflammation. Dandelion root helps to detoxify the liver and replenish lost electrolytes. Together, these herbs can help alleviate hangover symptoms and promote a faster recovery.

You can steep 1 tablespoon each of dried Peppermint and Ginger roots, and 2 tablespoons of Dandelion root in boiling water for 5-7 minutes to make a soothing and effective decoction.

What ailments similar to hangover are treated with herbal decoctions?

Ailments similar to hangover/decoctions.html">hangover/decoctions.html">hangover that are treated with herbal decoctions are various digestive issues, such as food poisoning, indigestion, and stomach upset.

Herbal decoctions like peppermint, chamomile, and ginger are commonly used to alleviate symptoms of nausea, vomiting, and bloating. Additionally, decoctions made from licorice root, fennel seeds, and cardamom are also effective in soothing digestive discomforts and reducing inflammation.

These herbal remedies can provide natural relief without the side effects associated with over-the-counter medications.