Hangover in Traditional Chinese Medicine
Understanding different hangover patterns according to TCM theory
Educational content • Consult qualified practitioners for medical advice
Condition Categories
Condition Categories
A hangover is the body’s response to excessive alcohol consumption, characterized by a constellation of symptoms such as headache, nausea, dizziness, fatigue, and sensitivity to light and sound. These symptoms typically emerge after the intoxicating effects of alcohol have worn off, often peaking the morning after drinking.
From a medical standpoint, hangovers are primarily attributed to the toxic byproducts of alcohol metabolism, dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, and the disruption of sleep. Although uncomfortable, hangovers are generally short-lived, resolving within 24 hours as the body clears the remaining toxins.
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), hangovers are not merely seen as the result of alcohol consumption but as a disruption of the body’s internal balance. Unlike Western medicine, which often focuses on symptomatic relief, TCM seeks to identify the underlying patterns of disharmony that alcohol exacerbates, such as Heat, Dampness, or Qi Stagnation. By determining the specific imbalance, TCM practitioners can tailor treatment to restore harmony, addressing both the immediate symptoms and the root cause of the hangover.
Herbal Formulas for Hangover
Traditional Chinese Medicine formulas used to address hangover