Different hangover cures to try from around the world

Few things in life are as unpleasant as a hangover, and as we age, the aftermath of a night of drinking seems to worsen. 

While binge drinking is not advisable, many of us have found ourselves having one too many alcoholic beverages. 

And let's be honest, South Africans especially love to party. 

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The morning after a braai at a friend's house or a night out can feel like a battle for survival, and no matter what hangover remedy (and we've thought of many) you try, nothing seems to work.

Fortunately, some unusual hangover cures from around the world might help.

Here are seven different hangover cures from around the world:

1. Pickle juice – Eastern Europe

Popular in Eastern Europe, pickle juice is rich in potassium and sodium, helping to restore lost electrolytes after heavy drinking. While some swear by it, others see it as more of a daring challenge than a true cure.

2. Prairie oyster – United States

This American remedy combines a raw egg yolk with tomato juice, Worcestershire sauce, and spices, aiming to break down acetaldehyde, the toxin behind hangovers. Though it may not be appetising, the cysteine in egg yolks offers a scientific basis for its effectiveness.

3. Lemon on the armpits – Puerto Rico

Some Puerto Ricans believe rubbing lemon under their armpits before drinking prevents dehydration and helps the body handle alcohol better. Though there's no scientific proof, it's an amusing and citrusy-smelling tradition.

4. Olive oil shots – Mediterranean Region

In some Mediterranean countries, drinking a shot of olive oil before alcohol is thought to coat the stomach and slow alcohol absorption. While the fat content may help delay intoxication, the effectiveness of this remedy remains debatable.

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5. Buffalo milk – Namibia

Namibia's buffalo milk is a creamy cocktail blending clotted cream, rum, and cream liqueur, offering both sugar and alcohol to ease hangover symptoms. Essentially a boozy milkshake, it's indulgent but may not be the healthiest cure.

6. Tape on the forehead – Estonia

Estonians believe taping the forehead over acupuncture points can relieve headaches and other hangover symptoms. While its effectiveness is uncertain, it's at least a quirky conversation starter.

7. Powerade and Rehydrate – TikTok's Gen Z hack

South Africans on TikTok recommend mixing Powerade with rehydration electrolytes to combat dehydration quickly. This modern hack is both practical and far more palatable than many traditional remedies.

What causes a hangover?

According to Mayo Clinic, a hangover occurs due to several physiological effects of alcohol, including dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, and low blood sugar, which lead to symptoms like thirst, fatigue, and dizziness. 

Alcohol also irritates the stomach lining, disrupts sleep, and introduces toxic byproducts like acetaldehyde and congeners, all of which worsen hangover effects. These combined factors result in nausea, headaches, weakness, and overall discomfort after drinking.

While these remedies vary in effectiveness and scientific backing, they offer a glimpse into the diverse ways cultures attempt to alleviate the dreaded hangover.

If you or someone you know is struggling with alcohol or substance abuse in South Africa, you can reach out to the South African National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence (SANCA) at 011 892 3829 or visit www.sanca.co.za for support and resources.

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