In today’s world, where there seems to be a pill you can take for just about whatever ails you, sometimes going the natural route is the better way. Such may be the case with the common hangover, an affliction that seems to strike more frequently during this festive season, for some strange reason.
A hangover happens when alcohol that has been consumed is finally eliminated from the body—when the blood-alcohol level returns to zero. The toxin is now gone, but the damage it has done is not. The result is generally some combination of headache, upset stomach, thirst, food aversion, nausea, diarrhea, tremulousness, fatigue, and a general feeling of yuckiness. Scientists haven’t yet found all the reasons for this network of woes, but they have proposed various causes.
Go Natural
When it comes to relief, Amanda Miller, writing for the eco-minded website Green Daily, suggests the following old-fashioned tried-and-true remedies.
Honey
Honey has a natural sweetener, fructose, that helps speed up the absorption of alcohol in your body. It’s also high in potassium, which also helps counter the effects of alcohol. Natural sugars are the best ways to raise blood sugar, which may be low after a night of celebrating. A teaspoon of honey with your morning tea or cereal may could be just the tonic.
Ginger
Ginger helps fight nausea. Organic ginger candies are available, or you may prefer organic ginger tea to help you rehydrate. Ginger root is also available in capsule form.
Peppermint
Peppermint is another nausea fighter. It helps dissolve unwanted gas from the stomach and intestines. Sip some peppermint tea, or suck on an organic candy cane.
Vitamin B, Ginseng and Caffeine
If you’re feeling drained after a night of carousing, taking a vitamin B complex can help perk you up, Miller writes. And although many people thirst for coffee on the morning after, it may not be the best thing for you. Caffeine is a diuretic, which causes you to urinate more often, and may dehydrate you further. Ginseng tea may be a better choice.
