Hangovers are caused by an overidulence in alcohol that results in a buildup of toxins your liver can not work fast enough to remove. Herbs that act as hangover cures work by either supporting the liver's alcohol metabolizing function or inhibiting the alcohol from entering and building up in your bloodstream. In addition to herbal treatments, there are several behavioral steps you can take to minimize your hangover such as drinking plenty of water and not drinking on an empty stomach.
Aloe Vera
Aloe vera is traditionally used to treat internal disorders such as constipation, type 2 diabetes and even Crohn's disease. However, it can also be a hangover cure according to folk medicine. You can use the juice of the aloe plant to deter alcohol from entering the blood, therefore quickening recovery from intoxication. The suggested dosage is 1/4 to 1/2 cup prior to the consumption of alcohol. It is important to note that you should not take aloe vera if you have diarrhea because it may also act as a laxative.
Kudzu
According to Ilene Sternberg for The Brooklyn Botanic Garden, the Chinese have been using kudzu's starchy root tubers to treat headaches, hangovers and alcohol dependency for at least 1,300 years. Kudzu is a wild-growing vine and the tubers contain a chemical compound called daidzin, which is used in Chinese medicine to suppress alcohol cravings and diminish the effects of overindulgence.
Milk thistle
Milk thistle assists with detoxification and strengthens your liver's ability to remove alcohol from the blood. The University of Maryland's Health Center reports that some studies looking at milk thistle to treat alcoholic liver disease have found significant improvements in liver function. Although the herb does not appear to be effective if you have severe liver disease, milk thistle can provide support for mild disorders or occasional occurrences such as hangovers.
