Liquor Laboratory

10 Best Alcoholic Drink For Hangover (Hair of The Dog)

Best Alcoholic Drinks For A Hangover

Last Updated on March 28, 2024 by Lydia Martin

For generations, bartenders and expert researchers have been looking for ways to ease your regret (and that terrible ache in your head) after a night of drinking.

One of our most tried and tested techniques to cure a nasty hangover is to start drinking again or the “hair of the dog” method. Yes, you read that right.

Now the question is – what’s the best alcoholic drink for hangover? Let’s find out.  

Top 10 Hair of the Dog Drinks To Kill a Hangover

10. Pimm’s Cup

Pimm’s Cup

Pimm’s Cup aims to soothe your upset stomach after a night of alcohol overindulgence. The traditional mint, cucumber, and strawberry garnishes also provide a hint of refreshment to keep you on your toes all day.

Prep Time: 3 minutes

Total Time: 3 minutes

Ingredients:

  • 1.5 oz Pimm’s No. 1 
  • 4.5 oz Sparkling lemonade
  • Cucumber peel or slice (garnish)
  • Fresh mint sprig, strawberry, or orange slices for garnish.

Instructions: 

Pour Pimm’s No. 1 into a tall glass filled with ice, add the lemonade the stir to combine. Top it off with cucumber, mint, orange, or strawberry slices, then serve.

Serving:

9. Espresso Martini

Espresso Martini

A caffeinated cocktail like this Espresso Martini is our ultimate pick-me-up in the middle of the day. Concocted by the late master bartender Dick Bradsell, this classic cocktail includes vodka, coffee liqueur, and freshly brewed espresso.

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Total Time: 5 minutes

Ingredients: 

  • 2 oz vodka
  • 0.5 oz coffee liqueur (Kahlua) 
  • 1 oz freshly brewed espresso
  • 0.5 oz simple syrup 
  • Coffee beans (garnish)

Instructions:

Mix coffee liqueur, vodkas, espresso, and simple syrup in a cocktail shaker filled with ice, then shake well. Strain in a chilled cocktail glass and garnish with espresso beans on top for extra caffeine.

Serving: 1

8. Bloody Maria

Bloody Maria

While we like the classic Bloody Mary, something about its counterpart – the Bloody Maria – makes it the real winner as a hangover killer. We think the definitive character is its tequila base compared to Mary’s vodka.

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Total Time: 5 minutes

Ingredients:

  • 2 oz tequila
  • 0.5 oz lemon juice
  • 0.5 tbsp horseradish 
  • 4 dashes of Worcestershire sauce
  • 4 oz tomato juice
  • 2 dashes of tabasco sauce
  • 1 pinch of black pepper (ground)
  • 2 dashes of hot sauce
  • 1 pinch of celery salt
  • lemon wedge (garnish)
  • Sweet and jalapeno pepper slices (garnish)
  • Queso fresco

Instructions: 

Combine tequila, lemon juice, tomato juice, tabasco, Worcestershire and hot sauce, black pepper, and celery salt in a shaker filled with ice. Shake well and strain in a pint glass with fresh ice. Serve with lemon wedges, cucumber spear, queso fresco, and vegetables sweet and jalapeno pepper slices like Bloody Mary. 

Serving: 1

7. The Dead Rabbit Irish Coffee

The Dead Rabbit Irish Coffee

This house recipe from one of our favorite top bars can get you back in fighting form in no time. It’s quick, simple, and delectable, too. Check out some simple mixed drinks you can order at a bar here.

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Total Time: 10 minutes

Ingredients: 

  • 1.5 oz Clontarf Irish whiskey
  • 4 oz brewed espresso
  • 0.75 oz demerara syrup 
  • Lightly whipped heavy cream
  • Freshly grated nutmeg (garnish)

Instructions: 

Get an Irish glass, fill it with hot water and let it stand for 2 minutes. Remove the water, then pour the whiskey, demerara syrup, and espresso. Blend well, then top it off with heavy cream and freshly grated nutmeg. 

Serving: 1

6. Michelada

Michelada

Michelada is popular in Mexico and is often available in bars or sold by street vendors. This strong Mexican drink is easy to make since you’ll only be needing ingredients you already have in your kitchen. But do you know why hangovers get worse with age?

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Total Time: 5 minutes

Ingredients: 

  • 1 Mexican beer bottle
  • 2 dashes of Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 dashes tabasco
  • 1 pinch salt 
  • 1 pinch of cayenne pepper
  • 1 pinch of celery salt
  • 1 pinch of black pepper (ground)
  • 0.5 lime juice
  • Lime wedges

Instructions:

Get a shallow bowl and combine equal parts of cayenne pepper and salt. Rub a piece of the lime wedge on the rim of a pint glass, then dip the rim into the cayenne-salt mixture. Pour the liquid ingredients, then top it off with beer and citrus wedge for Vitamin C. 

Serving: 1

5. Beer

Beer

Alcohol like beer can mask the symptoms of a hangover since it provides a temporary increase in endorphin levels. We recommend you drink light beer because darker ones contain more congeners. 

A congener can irritate the brain tissues and blood vessels, making your hangover worse [1]. Since light beers have low levels of congeners, they can be a temporary cure for alcohol hangovers. 

4. Light Rum

Light Rum

Rum is widely used in making the “hair of the dog” if you’re dealing with alcohol intoxication and other residual effects. It is a distilled spirit with a low congener content, so it can effectively help you recover from your hangover symptoms.

However, dark rum might worsen your hangover symptoms, so opt for lighter-colored rums.    

3. White Wine

White Wine

White wine contains an average of 10% ABV and has almost no congeners, which is why many people believe it’s good booze for hangovers. If you like drinking wine but hate the terrible headache and overall unwell feeling, try swapping your red wine for white.  

2. Gin

Gin

Although gin contains an average of 40% alcohol content, drinking this clear spirit may reduce the risk of getting hungover. Try mixing gin with some tonic and lime for a low-calorie drink that can still pack a lot of punch.

Since gin is low in additives,  you can expect a headache-free morning the following day. 

Read: Wine Hangover Cures

1. Vodka

Vodka, best Alcoholic Drink For Hangover

Vodka is an alcoholic drink that will least likely cause hangovers because it is pure and almost tasteless. [2].

Unlike dark spirits like whiskey and wine that undergoes distillation, fermentation, and aging, vodkas are clear and do not virtually contain congeners. 

However, when mixed with fruit juices, vodka may not help cure dehydration and hangover because of the added sugar. It will be ideal to combine it with low-sugar mixers.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What alcohol is best for hangovers?

When considering which alcoholic beverages may lead to milder hangovers, it’s important to understand that individual reactions to alcohol can vary widely. However, certain types of alcohol are thought to be associated with reduced hangover severity compared to others.

Lighter-colored spirits such as vodka, gin, and white rum are often touted as being less likely to cause intense hangovers than darker spirits like whiskey, brandy, and red wine.

This is because darker alcohols tend to contain higher levels of congeners, which are chemical compounds formed during fermentation and aging and are believed to contribute to hangover symptoms.

While avoiding high-congener drinks may decrease the likelihood of severe hangovers for some individuals, moderation in alcohol consumption, staying hydrated, and maintaining a balanced diet are also essential factors in minimizing hangover risk.

What is the best anti-hangover drink?

While there is no magical cure for a hangover, there are several strategies and beverages that may help alleviate its symptoms. Hydration is key, as alcohol consumption can lead to dehydration, contributing to hangover symptoms such as headache, fatigue, and thirst.

Drinking water or electrolyte-rich beverages like sports drinks, coconut water, or rehydration solutions before, during, and after consuming alcohol can help replenish lost fluids and electrolytes, potentially reducing dehydration and easing hangover symptoms.

Additionally, beverages containing ginger or herbal teas may help soothe upset stomachs, while consuming foods high in carbohydrates and protein can help stabilize blood sugar levels and provide essential nutrients.

Some people also find relief from hangover symptoms by consuming drinks or supplements containing vitamins and minerals such as B vitamins, vitamin C, magnesium, and potassium. However, it’s essential to remember that prevention is key, and moderation in alcohol consumption remains the most effective strategy for avoiding hangovers.

What drink is good for hangover thirst?

When experiencing hangover-related thirst, it’s crucial to prioritize hydration by consuming plenty of fluids. Water is the most effective thirst-quencher and should be consumed in abundance to replenish fluids lost through alcohol-induced diuresis and sweating.

Additionally, electrolyte-rich beverages like coconut water, sports drinks, or rehydration solutions can help restore electrolyte balance and further alleviate thirst. Beverages with a high water content, such as fruit juices, herbal teas, or clear broths, can also contribute to hydration and provide relief from thirst.

Avoiding caffeinated or sugary beverages, as well as alcohol, is recommended, as these can exacerbate dehydration and worsen hangover symptoms.

Overall, focusing on hydration with water and electrolyte-rich fluids is essential for managing hangover-related thirst and promoting recovery.

Which juice is better for alcohol hangover?

When it comes to choosing juices to help alleviate hangover symptoms, opting for options that are rich in vitamins and minerals can be beneficial. Orange juice, for example, is high in vitamin C, which can help boost your immune system and aid in the body’s recovery process.

Additionally, juices like tomato juice contain electrolytes and antioxidants that may help replenish nutrients lost during alcohol consumption. Coconut water is another excellent choice, as it is naturally hydrating and contains electrolytes such as potassium, which can help rehydrate the body and alleviate hangover-related symptoms.

Ultimately, the best juice for a hangover may depend on individual preferences and tolerances, but prioritizing hydration and replenishing essential nutrients is key.

How do you cure a hangover ASAP?

While there is no instant cure for a hangover, there are several strategies you can try to help alleviate its symptoms and promote recovery:

Hydrate: Drink plenty of water or electrolyte-rich beverages like coconut water or sports drinks to replenish lost fluids and combat dehydration.

Rest: Allow your body time to recover by getting adequate rest and sleep.

Eat: Consume a balanced meal with foods rich in carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats to help stabilize blood sugar levels and replenish nutrients.

Take pain relievers: Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or aspirin can help alleviate headache and muscle aches associated with hangovers. However, avoid acetaminophen (Tylenol), as it can be hard on the liver when combined with alcohol.

Replenish electrolytes: Drink fluids containing electrolytes such as potassium, sodium, and magnesium to help restore electrolyte balance and alleviate symptoms like fatigue and muscle cramps.

Consider ginger: Ginger tea or ginger ale may help soothe an upset stomach and alleviate nausea associated with hangovers.

Avoid more alcohol: While a “hair of the dog” may temporarily alleviate hangover symptoms, it can prolong recovery and lead to further dehydration and discomfort.

What should I eat after drinking alcohol?

Eating a balanced meal with foods rich in carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats can help replenish nutrients, stabilize blood sugar levels, and alleviate hangover symptoms. Consider options like eggs, which contain cysteine, an amino acid that may help break down toxins in the body, or bananas, which are rich in potassium and can help replenish electrolytes.

Other good choices include whole grains, lean proteins, fruits, vegetables, and foods high in antioxidants and vitamins. Additionally, consuming foods that are easy on the stomach, such as toast, crackers, or broth-based soups, may help soothe digestive discomfort and nausea.

Avoiding greasy or heavy foods, which can exacerbate stomach issues, is also recommended. Overall, focus on nourishing your body with nutrient-rich foods to support recovery and replenish energy levels after drinking alcohol.

Is Sprite good for a hangover?

Sprite, and other clear sodas, may offer some relief for certain hangover symptoms due to their carbonation and high sugar content. The carbonation in Sprite can help settle an upset stomach, while the sugar may provide a quick energy boost. Additionally, the lemon-lime flavor of Sprite might help mask the taste of alcohol, making it more palatable for some individuals experiencing nausea or discomfort.

However, it’s important to note that while Sprite may offer temporary relief for certain symptoms, it does not address the underlying causes of a hangover, such as dehydration and electrolyte imbalance.

To properly alleviate hangover symptoms, it’s essential to drink plenty of water or electrolyte-rich beverages alongside Sprite to rehydrate and replenish essential nutrients.

How long do hangovers last?

The duration of a hangover can vary depending on individual factors such as metabolism, alcohol tolerance, hydration levels, and overall health. Typically, hangover symptoms peak within a few hours after drinking alcohol and can last anywhere from 12 to 24 hours.

However, some individuals may experience lingering symptoms for up to 48 hours or more, particularly if they consumed large quantities of alcohol or are particularly sensitive to its effects.

While there is no quick fix for a hangover, staying hydrated, getting adequate rest, and practicing self-care can help alleviate symptoms and promote recovery.

How do you prevent a hangover when drunk?

While it’s impossible to completely prevent a hangover, there are several strategies you can employ to minimize its severity:

Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water or electrolyte-rich beverages before, during, and after drinking alcohol to counteract dehydration, a primary cause of hangover symptoms.

Moderate alcohol intake: Pace yourself and limit the amount of alcohol you consume to reduce the risk of hangover symptoms. Alternating alcoholic drinks with water or non-alcoholic beverages can help you stay hydrated and pace your drinking.

Eat before drinking: Consume a balanced meal with foods rich in carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats before drinking alcohol. Eating before drinking can help slow alcohol absorption and minimize its effects on your body.

Choose lighter-colored drinks: Opt for lighter-colored spirits like vodka, gin, or white rum, which generally have lower levels of congeners and may be associated with milder hangovers compared to darker alcohols like whiskey or red wine.

Get plenty of rest: Ensure you get adequate sleep before and after drinking alcohol to give your body time to recover and repair itself.

Consider supplements: Some individuals find that taking supplements such as vitamin B complex or prickly pear extract before drinking alcohol can help reduce the severity of hangover symptoms.

Know your limits: Listen to your body and know when to stop drinking. If you start to feel unwell or intoxicated, stop drinking and switch to water or non-alcoholic beverages to help prevent further dehydration and minimize hangover symptoms.

Is Pocari Sweat good for hangover?

Pocari Sweat is an electrolyte-rich beverage designed to help replenish fluids and minerals lost during physical activity or dehydration. While it can be beneficial for rehydration, especially after sweating or vigorous exercise, its effectiveness for treating hangovers is less clear.

While Pocari Sweat may help replace lost electrolytes and fluids, it does not address other factors contributing to hangover symptoms, such as alcohol’s effects on the body and metabolism.

While consuming Pocari Sweat alongside water may contribute to hydration and electrolyte replenishment, it’s essential to address the underlying causes of a hangover by practicing moderation in alcohol consumption, staying hydrated, and getting adequate rest.

What not to eat when hungover?

When experiencing a hangover, it’s best to avoid foods that may exacerbate symptoms or further upset the stomach. Greasy, fried, or fatty foods can be particularly challenging to digest and may worsen nausea or digestive discomfort. Spicy foods can also irritate the stomach lining and may lead to heartburn or acid reflux.

Additionally, foods high in sugar or refined carbohydrates can cause fluctuations in blood sugar levels, leading to energy crashes and increased fatigue.

While individual tolerances vary, it’s generally best to stick to bland, easy-to-digest foods such as toast, crackers, bananas, rice, or broth-based soups to help soothe the stomach and replenish nutrients without exacerbating hangover symptoms.

So, What’s Best Alcoholic Drink For Hangover?

Keeping yourself hydrated can help you recover from symptoms of hangovers. Many people find relief in vegetable juices, herbs, fruits, vitamins, and caffeine.

However, drinking alcoholic liquors may help, too. Spirits such as vodkas and light rum can help ease that horrible headache, so you can survive the next day. 

References:

  1. Drinks that may help treat a hangover
  2. The alcoholic drinks that are most and least likely to give you a hangover
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