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Tea, Hangovers & Tea Drunkenness

The Hangover film reference

The Hangover

Ah, the hangover.
When it comes to hangovers, humorist Robert Benchley and his well-known observations on everyday life may have said it best: “the only cure for a real hangover is death.” Not the most practical solution, of course.

So where does tea fit into all of this? Can tea cure a hangover? Probably not—though the question continues to be debated. Still, tea may help ease some of the associated symptoms.

For example, young puerh tea often associated with digestion and post-meal recovery is commonly believed to help with the aftereffects of alcohol, although scientific evidence remains limited.

Despite marketing claims, there is likely no true “cure” for a hangover. Researchers still disagree about the exact causes, but a few practical steps can help reduce discomfort.

Young puerh tea leaves

Young Pu-erh

One of the most important recommendations is to stay hydrated. Consuming non-alcoholic beverages—including tea—before, during, and after drinking can help counteract dehydration caused by alcohol.

Some have also suggested that compounds in tea, such as caffeine and theanine, may help reduce fatigue or mental sluggishness the next day, though results can vary.

For broader medical perspectives on hangovers, see this clinical overview of hangover symptoms and contributing factors from the Annals of Internal Medicine and this WebMD guide discussing causes of hangovers and ways to reduce symptoms.

On the flip side, there’s also the curious idea of “tea drunkenness.” While not a medically recognized condition, some tea drinkers report unusual sensations after consuming large quantities of tea.

For personal perspectives on this phenomenon, see this discussion of tea-related sensations sometimes described as tea drunkenness, this personal account exploring the effects of drinking large amounts of tea, and this lighthearted article examining the concept of tea drunkenness in tea culture.



3 responses to “Tea, Hangovers & Tea Drunkenness”

  1. […] For more thoughts on the peculiar state of mind known as tea drunkenness take a look at what Adam had to say on the topic a while back at The Sip Tip. Even more on this notion in an older post at the Tea Obsession blog. As for whether or not tea might be able to help dull the pain of a hangover – a few thoughts here. […]

  2. I have actually experienced tea drunkenness, at an extended tasting session in Xiamen, China. It is the most bizarre thing ever–but it doesn’t give you a hangover!

  3. Ugh. I’d rather deal with the hangover than drink pu-ehr. It tastes/smells like a heritage park of some sort.

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