Alcohol is a narcotic drug which creates a hangover effect following excessive consumption. The hangover is caused by:-
Dehydration: Alcohol has a diuretic effect and causes dehydration by reducing the water in the blood.
Liver Toxicity: Alcohol is toxic to the liver and prevents waste being absorbed from the blood.
The result is a noxious fluid washing the brain replacing the usual healthy tonic of oxygen and nutrients which feed brain cells. As a result, nausea (or worse!), headache and a thick, muzzy head occur until the alcohol has been eliminated from the body.
A hangover can be minimised by drinking a pint of water after a drinking session before going to bed followed by a further pint on waking. Of course, since alcohol is a sedating narcotic, this approach can lead to bed-wetting in the thoroughly intoxicated.
Some herbal preparations can be helpful as an antidote to a hangover. These include strong bitter teas such as dandelion, nettle, camomile or peppermint. These bitter drinks can stimulate the liver to function more effectively and eliminate the alcohol. It won't prevent the hangover but it can reduce its duration.
Prevention is always better than cure. Why not simply stick to soft drinks or mineral water and avoid the perils of alcohol altogether?
See also the READERS' TIPS page