6 Must-Have Holiday Hangover Cures

The best way to cure a hangover is not to have one in the first place. The most popular hangover cause is when the fluid around your brain drains, and creates the “Oh-God-I-am-never-drinking-again” feeling. That pounding headache is actually your brain hitting up against your skull because there is no fluid to cushion it. Ouch.

You can prevent an alcohol hangover almost completely if you stay hydrated. Always consume plenty of water along with your alcohol, which is easy to do at a dinner but slightly harder out at a party. And remember: the darker the alcohol, the worse your hangover will be. Though less fun, you may want to give our chilled holiday nog a try.

Down a giant glass of water and pop two ibuprofen tablets (like Advil). Never take acetaminophen tablets (like Tylenol) when you have been drinking alcohol as it could hurt your liver. If possible, eat something plain, small, and filling like half of a sandwich or a cup of this vegan potato soup. Don’t forget to put a glass of water by your bed for when you wake up in the middle of the night with cottonmouth.

Of course, if you went at it with the drinks, you might have just crashed into bed without preparing for the morning after. If this is the case, you’ll need fluids ASAP: water, juice, and sports drinks with electrolytes are all good choices. Once you get some liquids down, you will need more sustenance. Some of the best holiday hangover cures consist of these six options below:

Herbs are one of the main hangover remedies used for centuries. Sip tea made with fennel, centaury leaf, or peppermint, or drink a willow bark tonic. Let the healing begin.

If you don’t like taking ibuprofen or other chemicals to soothe your hangover, you can try a shot of wheatgrass or take a detoxifying bath in mustard or wasabi powder.

Tiger Balm is a 100% herbal remedy for muscle pains, headaches, stomachaches, and heartburn whose recipe dates back to the time of Chinese emperors. Dab a little on your temples for immediate relief.

A good massage, especially a foot rub, will not only cure your aches and pains but will also help your liver to speed up detoxification. Focus on the outer edge of the right foot, about halfway between your toes and the middle of your foot.

Poses that incorporate twisting motions will help purge toxins from the liver and body. Even those who don’t know yoga will benefit from slowly twisting the arms and torso from side to side.

It may not be science, but nothing cures a hangover like a big glass of orange juice (vitamin C), a bigger cup of black coffee, and a delicious greasy breakfast, preferably at an organic-friendly establishment. This way, when you’re out to brunch with friends, you can all rehash the fabulous night that got you into this situation in the first place.

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