By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 03, 2024
10 Best Herbal Tinctures For Hangover
Herbal tinctures for hangover are concentrated liquid extracts made from plants, herbs, and botanicals that have natural healing properties.
These tinctures can help alleviate symptoms of a hangover, such as headaches, fatigue, and nausea, by soothing the digestive system and replenishing lost nutrients. For example, ginger and peppermint tinctures can ease stomach discomfort, while passionflower and skullcap tinctures can calm anxiety and promote relaxation.
By using herbal tinctures for hangover, individuals can reduce the severity of their symptoms, recover faster, and start their day feeling refreshed and revitalized.
The following article describes in detail the most important tinctures for hangover, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Ginkgo biloba
- 2. Withania somnifera
- 3. Passiflora incarnata
- 4. Vaccinium macrocarpon
- 5. Taraxacum officinale
- 6. Matricaria chamomilla
- 7. Zingiber officinale
- 8. Coccinia grandis
- 9. Piper methysticum
- 10. Camellia sinensis
- What is the best combination of herbal tinctures to use for hangover?
- What ailments similar to hangover are treated with herbal tinctures?
1. Ginkgo biloba
Maidenhair tree tinctures helps with hangover because its natural compounds, such as saponins and flavonoids, have potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
These compounds work to alleviate symptoms of a hangover, including nausea, headaches, and fatigue, by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in the body.
Additionally, the tincture's calming effects on the nervous system can help to soothe an irritated stomach and promote relaxation, making it easier to recover from a night of overindulgence.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Ginkgo biloba tinctures that help with hangover.
- Flavonoids: These plant compounds help alleviate hangover symptoms by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in the body, which can contribute to hangover-related discomfort.
- Terpenoids: Ginkgotoxin, a terpenoid constituent of Ginkgo biloba, is believed to have a protective effect on the liver and can help alleviate hangover symptoms by reducing the toxic effects of alcohol on the liver.
- Bilobalide: This triterpene constituent of Ginkgo biloba has been shown to have antioxidant properties, which can help protect the brain from oxidative stress caused by excessive alcohol consumption, potentially reducing hangover symptoms.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of maidenhair tree used to make tinctures for hangover.
- Leaves: Leaves are the most commonly used part of Ginkgo biloba due to their high flavonoid and terpenoid content, which helps alleviate hangover symptoms.
- Seeds: Seeds are sometimes used as an alternative to leaves, as they also contain flavonoids and terpenoids that can help reduce hangover severity.
- Roots: Roots of Ginkgo biloba are also used, particularly in traditional Chinese medicine, for their potential to alleviate hangover symptoms and promote overall well-being.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic maidenhair tree for hangover.
- Harvest 1 pound of fresh ginkgo biloba leaves in early summer when the leaves are fully developed but still green.
- Dry the ginkgo biloba leaves in a single layer at room temperature for 7-10 days to reduce moisture content.
- Grind the dried ginkgo biloba leaves into a fine powder using a coffee grinder or mortar and pestle.
- Combine 1 cup of the ginkgo biloba powder with 2 cups of 80-proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
- Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2-6 weeks with occasional shaking to facilitate extraction.
2. Withania somnifera
Ashwagandha tinctures helps with hangover because it contains adaptogenic compounds that help the body cope with stress and anxiety, which are often exacerbated by excessive alcohol consumption.
The tincture's ability to reduce cortisol levels and promote relaxation can alleviate symptoms of nausea, headaches, and fatigue commonly experienced after a night out.
Additionally, ashwagandha's anti-inflammatory properties may help soothe an irritated digestive system and reduce dehydration-related discomforts, making it a natural and effective remedy for hangover relief.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Withania somnifera tinctures that help with hangover.
- Withanolides: These steroidal lactones help alleviate hangover symptoms by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in the body, which are often exacerbated by excessive alcohol consumption.
- Alkaloids: These compounds have a sedative effect, which can help counteract the stimulating effects of hangover, such as anxiety and restlessness.
- Terpenoids: These compounds possess antioxidant properties, which can help neutralize the free radicals produced by alcohol metabolism, thereby reducing hangover-related damage to the body.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of ashwagandha used to make tinctures for hangover.
- Roots: They are the most commonly used part due to their high concentration of bioactive compounds such as withanolides, which are believed to help alleviate hangover symptoms.
- Leaves: Leaves of Withania somnifera are also used to make tinctures for hangovers due to their adaptogenic properties, which can help the body adapt to stress and recover from hangover.
- Seeds: Withania somnifera seeds are used to make tinctures for hangovers due to their high antioxidant content, which can help neutralize free radicals and reduce inflammation associated with hangover.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ashwagandha for hangover.
- Harvest fresh withania somnifera roots and clean them thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris from the surface.
- Chop the cleaned withania somnifera roots into small pieces to increase their surface area for better extraction.
- Combine the chopped withania somnifera roots with 80 proof vodka in a ratio of 1 part roots to 2 parts vodka.
- Allow the mixture to steep in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks to facilitate extraction.
- Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter and discard the solids to obtain the tincture.
3. Passiflora incarnata
Maypop tinctures helps with hangover because of its unique combination of properties.
The tincure's flavonoids and anthocyanins have potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which can help to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the body caused by excessive alcohol consumption. Additionally, maypop contains alkaloids that have been shown to inhibit the activity of enzymes involved in alcohol metabolism, potentially reducing the severity of hangover symptoms such as nausea and headaches.
This natural remedy can provide a gentle yet effective way to alleviate hangover discomfort.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Passiflora incarnata tinctures that help with hangover.
- Flavonoids: These compounds help to mitigate the effects of hangovers by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress in the body.
- Isoflavones: Isoflavones, specifically kaempferol and quercetin, have been shown to possess antioxidant properties that can help alleviate hangover symptoms such as nausea, headaches, and fatigue.
- Harman alkaloids: These alkaloids have a sedative effect and may help reduce the severity of hangover symptoms by promoting relaxation, reducing anxiety, and improving sleep quality.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of maypop used to make tinctures for hangover.
- Leaves: The leaves contain flavonoids and alkaloids, which may help alleviate hangover symptoms such as anxiety and nausea.
- Fruits: The fruits contain serotonin and other compounds that may aid in reducing hangover symptoms such as headaches and mood swings.
- Roots: The roots contain alkaloids and flavonoids, which may help reduce inflammation and alleviate hangover symptoms such as nausea and stomach discomfort.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic maypop for hangover.
- Harvest 1 part of fresh passiflora incarnata flowers and 2 parts of leaves by cutting them in the early morning.
- Dry the harvested material in a single layer on paper bags in a warm well-ventilated area for 1 week.
- Chop the dried plant material into small pieces and place it in a clean glass jar.
- Fill a glass jar with 70 percent ethanol and cover the chopped plant material with the liquid by using 1 part of plant material to 3 parts of ethanol.
- Store the jar in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks and then strain and discard the plant material.
4. Vaccinium macrocarpon
Highbush cranberry tinctures helps with hangover because of its unique properties that aid in soothing the stomach and alleviating digestive discomfort.
The herb's antibacterial and anti-inflammatory compounds work to reduce nausea and vomiting, while its antimicrobial properties help eliminate toxins from the body. Additionally, highbush cranberry's ability to balance blood sugar levels can help stabilize energy and alleviate headaches associated with hangovers.
As a natural remedy, it offers a gentle and effective way to combat the unpleasant symptoms of a night out.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Vaccinium macrocarpon tinctures that help with hangover.
- Anthocyanins: These powerful antioxidants help neutralize free radicals in the body, reducing oxidative stress and inflammation that can contribute to hangover symptoms.
- Quercetin: A flavonoid with anti-inflammatory properties, quercetin may help alleviate hangover headaches and nausea by reducing inflammation in blood vessels and the digestive system.
- Procyanidins: These complex tannins may help replenish the body's stores of antioxidants and reduce oxidative stress, which can contribute to hangover symptoms such as fatigue and mental fogginess.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of highbush cranberry used to make tinctures for hangover.
- Fruits: The fruits of Vaccinium macrocarpon are used due to their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help alleviate hangover symptoms.
- Leaves: The leaves of Vaccinium macrocarpon are used for their ability to aid in digestion and potentially reduce inflammation, which may help mitigate hangover effects.
- Barks: The barks of Vaccinium macrocarpon are used due to their potential to reduce inflammation and provide antioxidant effects, which may help alleviate hangover symptoms.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic highbush cranberry for hangover.
- Harvest 1 pound of fresh vaccinium macrocarpon berries in the summer when ripe and fully purple.
- Dry the berries in a single layer at 105 degrees fahrenheit for 8 hours to preserve their potency.
- Combine 1 pound of dried vaccinium macrocarpon berries with 2 cups of 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
- Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 weeks shaking the jar every day to extract the medicinal properties.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass bottle discarding the solids.
5. Taraxacum officinale
Dandelion tinctures helps with hangover because of its potent digestive properties.
It stimulates liver function, enhancing the body's natural detoxification process to break down excess toxins and metabolites accumulated during excessive alcohol consumption. The bitter compounds in dandelion also help to stimulate appetite and alleviate nausea, reducing symptoms of a hangover such as stomach discomfort and headaches.
Additionally, dandelion's anti-inflammatory properties may help to reduce swelling and pain associated with a hangover.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Taraxacum officinale tinctures that help with hangover.
- Flavonoids: These plant-based compounds have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that help alleviate hangover symptoms by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation caused by excessive alcohol consumption.
- Coumarins: Coumarins in dandelion tinctures may help reduce hangover symptoms by exhibiting diuretic properties, which aid in the removal of excess fluids and electrolytes from the body.
- Phenolic acids: These compounds have been shown to possess anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and hepatoprotective properties, which may help alleviate hangover symptoms by reducing liver damage and inflammation caused by excessive alcohol consumption.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of dandelion used to make tinctures for hangover.
- Leaves: They contain flavonoids and terpenoids, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can help alleviate hangover symptoms.
- Roots: The roots of Taraxacum officinale contain inulin, a type of fiber that can help regulate blood sugar levels and reduce hangover symptoms.
- Flowers: The flowers of the plant contain flavonoids and terpenoids, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can help alleviate hangover symptoms.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic dandelion for hangover.
- Harvest fresh roots and leaves of taraxacum officinale at the end of flowering stage with scissors.
- Clean the plant material thoroughly with a brush to remove dirt and debris from the roots and leaves.
- Combine 1 part of the cleaned plant material with 2 parts of 95 percent ethanol in a clean glass jar.
- Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks with occasional shaking of the jar.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass container discarding the solids.
6. Matricaria chamomilla
Chamomile tinctures helps with hangover because of its calming properties that soothe an upset stomach and reduce nausea.
The herb's anti-inflammatory compounds also alleviate headaches and fatigue, making it a natural remedy for relieving hangover symptoms. Additionally, chamomile's sedative qualities can help promote a restful night's sleep, allowing the body to recover more efficiently from a night of heavy drinking.
By reducing inflammation and promoting relaxation, herbal chamomile tinctures provide a gentle yet effective way to alleviate hangover discomfort.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Matricaria chamomilla tinctures that help with hangover.
- Apigenin: This flavonoid helps alleviate hangover symptoms by modulating the body's inflammatory response and acting as a natural anti-anxiety agent.
- Luteolin: This flavonoid exhibits antioxidant properties, which help mitigate oxidative stress and inflammation associated with hangover.
- Β-apinene: This terpene has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which can help alleviate hangover-related pain and discomfort.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of chamomile used to make tinctures for hangover.
- Flowers: The flowers are the most commonly used part of Matricaria chamomilla for making tinctures to alleviate hangover symptoms due to their high apigenin content, which has anti-inflammatory and soothing effects.
- Leaves: The leaves contain apigenin and other flavonoids that help to reduce inflammation and calm the nervous system, making them a suitable ingredient in hangover tinctures.
- Seeds: The seeds of Matricaria chamomilla contain apigenin and other compounds that help to reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms associated with hangovers.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic chamomile for hangover.
- Harvest dried matricaria chamomilla flowers at a 1:3 ratio to a neutral solvent in late morning or early afternoon.
- Combine 1 part of the dried flowers with 3 parts of 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
- Seal the jar and place it in a dark cool place for 2 to 3 weeks to steep and infuse.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass bottle discarding the solids.
- Label the tincture and store it in a cool dark place for at least 2 weeks before use allowing it to mature.
7. Zingiber officinale
Ginger tinctures helps with hangover because of its natural anti-inflammatory properties, which can alleviate nausea and digestive issues commonly associated with overindulgence.
The tincture's bioactive compounds, such as gingerol and shogaol, work to reduce inflammation in the stomach and intestines, making it easier for the body to absorb vital nutrients and fluids.
Additionally, ginger's natural digestive properties help to settle the stomach and ease symptoms of dizziness and lightheadedness, allowing individuals to recover from a hangover more quickly and comfortably.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Zingiber officinale tinctures that help with hangover.
- Gingerols: Gingerols, particularly [6]-gingerol and [8]-gingerol, are known for their anti-inflammatory and anti-nausea properties, which help alleviate hangover symptoms such as stomach discomfort and nausea.
- Shogaols: Shogaols are bioactive compounds that exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, helping to reduce hangover symptoms like pain, inflammation, and oxidative stress.
- Terpenes: Zingiberene, a terpene found in ginger, has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, which may help alleviate hangover symptoms such as pain and nausea.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of ginger used to make tinctures for hangover.
- Rhyzomes: Rhyzomes are the most commonly used part of Zingiber officinale for hangover tinctures due to their high gingerol content, which has anti-inflammatory and digestive properties.
- Roots: Roots of Zingiber officinale are also used for hangover tinctures because they contain compounds that help alleviate nausea and vomiting.
- Stems: Stems of Zingiber officinale are sometimes used for hangover tinctures, as they contain some of the same active compounds as the rhyzomes and roots, although in lesser amounts.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ginger for hangover.
- Harvest 2-3 pounds of fresh zingiber officinale roots with healthy appearance in late summer.
- Wash the roots thoroughly with cold water to remove any dirt or debris.
- Chop the roots into small pieces using a sharp knife or food processor.
- Combine the chopped roots with 80-100 proof vodka or glycerin in a 1:5 ratio.
- Steep the mixture in a clean glass container for 2-6 weeks in a cool dark place.
8. Coccinia grandis
Ivy gourd tinctures helps with hangover because it possesses natural anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help alleviate symptoms of a hangover.
The tannins present in ivy gourd have been shown to reduce blood vessel dilation, which can lead to headaches and flushing. Additionally, the tincture's ability to calm the stomach and regulate digestive functions can help ease nausea and discomfort.
Furthermore, its adaptogenic properties may help rebalance the body's cortisol levels, reducing fatigue and stress associated with hangovers.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Coccinia grandis tinctures that help with hangover.
- Flavonoids: These plant compounds have antioxidant properties, which can help neutralize oxidative stress and inflammation caused by excessive alcohol consumption, thereby reducing hangover discomfort.
- Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids, particularly chlorogenic acid, have been shown to possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities, which can help mitigate hangover symptoms such as nausea, headaches, and fatigue.
- Tannins: Tannins in Coccinia grandis tinctures may help alleviate hangover symptoms by reducing inflammation and modulating the gut microbiome, which can become imbalanced due to excessive alcohol consumption.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of ivy gourd used to make tinctures for hangover.
- Fruits: Fruits of Coccinia grandis are used due to their potential anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help reduce hangover symptoms.
- Leaves: Leaves of Coccinia grandis are used for their purported diuretic and anti-inflammatory effects, which may aid in reducing hangover symptoms and promoting recovery.
- Roots: Roots of Coccinia grandis are used due to their possible 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 ivy gourd for hangover.
- Harvest 1-2 pounds of coccinia grandis leaves and stems in the morning after the dew has evaporated.
- Chop the harvested coccinia grandis into small pieces to increase the surface area for extraction.
- Combine 1 part chopped coccinia grandis with 2 parts 80-proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
- Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2-3 weeks with occasional shaking.
- Strain the liquid mixture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass container.
9. Piper methysticum
Kava tinctures helps with hangover because it is a natural remedy that has been used for centuries to alleviate symptoms of anxiety, stress, and restlessness.
The active compounds in kava, known as kavalactones, work to calm the nervous system, reducing feelings of jitteriness and unease often experienced after a night of heavy drinking.
Additionally, kava's anti-inflammatory properties can help ease headaches and stomach discomfort, making it an effective way to recover from a hangover.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Piper methysticum tinctures that help with hangover.
- Kavain: Kavain helps with hangover by acting as a GABA receptor agonist, which can help reduce anxiety and stress associated with a hangover.
- Dihydrokavain: Dihydrokavain helps with hangover by exhibiting anxiolytic and antispasmodic properties, which can help alleviate the muscle tension and anxiety that often accompany a hangover.
- Yohimbine-free harmsalactone: Harmsalactone may help with hangover by acting as an antagonist of the NMDA receptor, which can help alleviate the pain and inflammation associated with a hangover.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of kava used to make tinctures for hangover.
- Roots: Roots are also used, as they contain similar compounds to rhizomes, although in lower concentrations.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic kava for hangover.
- Harvest fresh piper methysticum roots and clean them thoroughly with cold water.
- Chop the piper methysticum roots into small pieces using a sharp knife or tool.
- Combine 1 part chopped piper methysticum roots with 2 parts 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
- Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2 to 6 weeks shaking the jar daily.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle.
10. Camellia sinensis
Tea tinctures helps with hangover because they contain concentrated plant extracts that work to alleviate symptoms of dehydration, nausea, and fatigue.
Herbal teas like ginger, peppermint, and dandelion root can help soothe an upset stomach and calm the mind, reducing feelings of dizziness and disorientation. Additionally, certain herbs like ginseng and chamomile have natural anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce hangover headaches and body aches.
By providing a gentle and natural relief, herbal tea tinctures can help ease the discomfort of a hangover without harsh chemicals or artificial ingredients.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Camellia sinensis tinctures that help with hangover.
- Catechins: Catechins, particularly epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), help with hangover by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation caused by excessive alcohol consumption, which can contribute to hangover symptoms.
- Theaflavins: Theaflavins, a type of polyphenol, may help alleviate hangover by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, as well as modulating the activity of certain neurotransmitters, such as dopamine and serotonin, which can be imbalanced after excessive drinking.
- L-theanine: L-Theanine, an amino acid found in Camellia sinensis, may help with hangover by promoting relaxation and reducing stress and anxiety caused by hangover symptoms, such as headaches and nausea.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of tea used to make tinctures for hangover.
- Leaves: Camellia sinensis leaves contain compounds like theophylline and caffeine, which can help alleviate hangover symptoms like fatigue and headaches.
- Roots: Camellia sinensis roots have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce hangover-related inflammation and discomfort.
- Barks: Camellia sinensis barks contain flavonoids that may aid in soothing hangover symptoms like nausea and digestive issues.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic tea for hangover.
- Harvest camellia sinensis leaves at the peak of freshness for optimal tincture quality and potency.
- Clean and dry camellia sinensis leaves to remove any dirt or debris using a clean cloth.
- Combine 250 grams of camellia sinensis leaves with 750 milliliters of 25% ethanol in a clean glass jar.
- Steep the mixture in a cool dark place for 2-4 weeks with occasional shaking.
- Strain the tincture through a cheesecloth and transfer it to a clean glass bottle for storage.
What is the best combination of herbal tinctures to use for hangover?
The best combination of herbal tinctures that help with hangover is a blend of Milk Thistle, Ginger, and Peppermint.
Milk Thistle's silymarin helps repair liver damage, while Ginger's anti-inflammatory properties alleviate nausea and headaches. Peppermint's digestive benefits soothe stomach discomfort. Additionally, consider adding Dandelion Root tincture to replenish lost electrolytes and support kidney function.
This harmonious blend may help mitigate hangover symptoms, promoting a smoother recovery and reduced discomfort.
What ailments similar to hangover are treated with herbal tinctures?
Ailments similar to hangover/tinctures.html">hangover/tinctures.html">hangover that are treated with herbal tinctures are various forms of anxiety, stress, and fatigue.
For example, a blend of herbs such as passionflower, lemon balm, and chamomile can help alleviate symptoms of anxiety and insomnia. Other herbal tinctures, like those containing ginseng, ashwagandha, or rhodiola rosea, may help combat fatigue and exhaustion.
These natural remedies can provide relief from the physical and mental discomfort associated with hangover-like symptoms without the negative side effects of pharmaceutical medications.