Cure holiday hangovers naturally
by JB Bardot
(NaturalNews) No one likes a hangover; however, most people like to eat and drink until they burst during the holidays. Tempting treats peak around every corner. Hangovers are not only relegated to those drinking alcohol. Gorging until eyeballs roll back into one’s head and the always present doggie bag produces ample opportunity for a food coma. A variety of natural cures abound to help holiday hangovers disappear up the chimney after Santa leaves.
Almonds
Prevent a hangover by eating 6 to 12 almonds before drinking. The North American Natives claim this will protect the body against intoxication.
Water
Drinking water is the best cure for hangovers. As a matter of fact, alternating a glass of water with an alcoholic drink can prevent a hangover. Sparkling waters with a twist of lime or lemon make a respectable replacement for a cocktail, preventing fluid loss associated with drinking alcohol. Drink a glass or two of water before going to bed to prevent dehydration.
Bananas
Eating a banana will replenish lost potassium and other minerals after drinking too much alcohol. Bananas are soothing to the digestive tract for most people and provide something solid in the stomach.
Wasabi
Along with being a delectable culinary delight, the spicy green paste known as wasabi also makes an excellent cleanse to remove toxins from the body. Wasabi stimulates blood circulation and promotes oxygenation of the cells, which helps remove waste. Infuse 2 to 4 tbsp. in a hot bath to allow the body to shed toxins through the skin to ease a hangover.
Ginger
Ginger is the time-honored cure for nausea and stomach upset. The easiest way to consume ginger is by drinking ginger ale; however, it must contain real ginger and sugar, not artificial sweeteners. Sugar too helps settle the stomach, so this is a winning combination for hangovers. Alternatively, make ginger tea by cutting a dozen slices of fresh ginger root and boiling them in 4 cups of water for about ten minutes. Remove the ginger and add the juice of half a fresh lemon and honey to taste. Drink as much of the tea as needed.
Reflexology
Stimulating the body’s reflexes through the feet is a popular treatment for relieving a variety of conditions, including hangovers. Detox the liver and relieve headaches and other effects from too much drinking by rubbing the liver reflex on the outer edge of the right foot (half way between the little toe and the middle of the foot).
Nux Vomica
The homeopathic remedy Nux vomica helps relieve headaches and digestive upsets such as belching, gas and bloating from drinking and eating too much. Dissolve a pellet in 4 oz. water and sip every hour for several doses until symptoms subside. Individuals should stop taking the remedy when they feel better or if symptoms don’t improve after taking three doses.
Lime or Lemon
Both lime and lemon juice help balance the body, stabilizing blood sugar and altering the pH. First thing in the morning after drinking, add 2 tsp. of fresh lime or lemon juice to 8 oz. warm water. Stir in a teaspoonful or two of raw honey and drink it down slowly.
About the author:
JB Bardot is trained in herbal medicine and homeopathy, and has a post graduate degree in holistic nutrition. Bardot cares for both people and animals, using alternative approaches to health care and lifestyle.