Ireland’s nightlife is back, and so naturally if you drink alcohol, so too are the sometimes brutal hangovers that come with it.
The internet is filled with mythical cures that often make you feel more ill than relieved of the headache and nausea - and often include bizarre concoctions in shakes or the classic hair of the dog method.
However, if you’re looking for a more health-conscious cure, there are actually some herbs and oils you can take to ease the pain of your latest hangover.
According to the experts at Healthline, these five supplements will have you on the mend in no time after a big night out.
Red ginseng
One study found that taking red ginseng reduced blood alcohol levels, as well as hangover severity.
According to one study : "While the plasma acetaldehyde concentration slightly increased, the RGD showed positive effects on hangover symptoms.
"Considering the reduction of plasma alcohol levels, expiratory concentrations, and hangover severity, we conclude that red ginseng relieves the symptoms of alcohol hangover."
Prickly pear
Some evidence shows that this type of cactus could help treat hangovers. A 2004 study found that prickly pear extract decreased hangover symptoms and cut the risk of hangover severity in half.
Web MD also claims that this is as an effective hangover cure and says: “Researchers found that taking a dietary supplement containing extracts of a type of prickly pear fruit before drinking alcohol may reduce some common hangover symptoms, such as nausea, dry mouth, and loss of appetite.”
Ginger
A study found that combining ginger with brown sugar and tangerine extract improved several hangover symptoms, including nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
The Cleveland Clinic says: “Ginger has been found to reduce nausea, so incorporating it into your diet the day after drinking can settle your upset stomach and help you feel better.
“Reach for dried ginger, ginger tea or try grating ginger into a fresh smoothie.”
Borage oil
One study looked at the effectiveness of a supplement containing both prickly pear and borage oil, an oil derived from the seeds of starflower.
The study found that it reduced hangover symptoms in 88% of participants.
Eleuthero
Also known as Siberian ginseng, one study found that supplementing with eleuthero extract alleviated several hangover symptoms and decreased overall severity.
So if you’re experiencing the brutal effects of several drinks the next day, reach for the ginseng, or google where near you sells this product.
