Hangoveraccording to TCM
Symptom family: Alcohol-Related Conditions
Sub-symptom(s): Nausea Due To Hangover Hangover Headache
What is Hangover?
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.
How Does TCM View Hangover?
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.
Causes of Hangover According to TCM
In TCM, hangovers can be attributed to various patterns of disharmony, with Damp-Heat in the Stomach and Spleen being a common culprit. This pattern occurs when alcohol introduces Heat and Dampness into the body, overwhelming the digestive system and leading to symptoms like nausea, heaviness in the body, and headache.
TCM recognizes that other imbalances may also contribute to hangover symptoms, underscoring the importance of personalized diagnosis and treatment.
TCM Herbal Formulas for Hangover
The treatment of hangovers in TCM involves the use of specific herbal formulas that address the underlying patterns of disharmony. One such formula is Ge Hua Jie Cheng San, which contains Kudzu Flowers (Ge Hua) as a key herb. This formula is particularly effective in treating Damp-Heat in the Stomach and Spleen, helping to clear Heat, resolve Dampness, and support the digestive system. The choice of formula and herbs will depend on the individual’s specific pattern, ensuring that the treatment is both effective and tailored to the patient’s unique needs.
See more details below about Ge Hua Jie Cheng San, a herbal formula used to address hangover.
- By Formula Type
- Formulas that reduce food stagnation with tonification
Formulas that reduce food Stagnation with tonification
Hangover can be treated by these formulas if it results from food stagnation combined with a need for strengthening and tonifying the digestive system.
One such formula is Ge Hua Jie Cheng San, with kudzu flower as a key herb.
Acupoints for Hangover
Acupuncture can play a significant role in alleviating hangover symptoms by targeting specific acupoints that address the underlying disharmonies. In the Gall Bladder Channel, the acupoint Shuaigu GB-8, located superior to the apex of the ear, is particularly beneficial.
This point helps subdue Liver Yang and harmonize the Stomach, addressing headaches and nausea commonly associated with hangovers. By stimulating these acupoints, acupuncture can help restore balance, reduce symptoms, and support the body’s natural detoxification process.
See more details below about Shuaigu GB-8, an acupoint used to address hangover.
- By Meridian
- Gall Bladder Channel
TCM Herbs for Hangover
Explore below some TCM herbs used to address hangover, organized by herb category.
- By Herb Category
- Herbs that clear heat and relieve toxicity
- Tonic herbs for yin deficiency
- Herbs that stop bleeding
- Herbs that relieve coughing and wheezing
Herbs that clear Heat and relieve Toxicity
Hangover can be treated by these herbs if it arises from internal heat and toxic accumulations, aiding in detoxification and cooling the body.
One such herb is Green Tea (Lv Cha ), which is directly recommended for hangover.
Other herbs of this category are listed in the table below.
"Herbs that clear Heat and relieve Toxicity" recommended for hangover
| Herb | Formulas they belong to (if applicable) |
|---|---|
| Green Tea (Lv Cha ) | Not applicable |
| Pu'er Tea (Pu er Cha) | Not applicable |
Tonic herbs for Yin Deficiency
Hangover can be treated by these herbs when caused by a lack of Yin, which is essential for cooling and moistening the body, thereby restoring balance.
One such herb is Japanese Raisin Tree Seeds (Zhi Ju Zi), which is directly recommended for hangover.
Herbs that stop bleeding
Hangover can be treated by these herbs in cases where it is due to internal or external bleeding, working to stabilize and constrict blood flow.
One such herb is Kudzu Flowers (Ge Hua), a key herb in some formulas recommended for hangover, like Ge Hua Jie Cheng San.
Herbs that relieve coughing and wheezing
Hangover can be treated by these herbs when it originates from obstructions in the lung pathways, helping to ease respiratory discomfort and restore normal breathing.
One such herb is Roselle Flower Buds (Mei Gui Qie), which is directly recommended for hangover.