Does dandelion help to relieve hangovers?

Dandelion, also known as Pu Gong Ying (dandelion), may help alleviate discomfort after drinking alcohol when consumed in appropriate amounts and when alcohol intake is limited. However, it may not effectively relieve the effects of excessive alcohol consumption or when there is spleen and stomach deficiency-cold. Detailed analysis is as follows:

Dandelion contains components that promote urination. When alcohol consumption is moderate, drinking an appropriate amount of dandelion-infused water may help accelerate alcohol metabolism and relieve mild discomforts such as headache and dry mouth, thus possibly aiding in alleviating the effects of alcohol.

However, if alcohol intake is excessive and exceeds the body's metabolic capacity, dandelion cannot rapidly break down large amounts of alcohol. Additionally, individuals with pre-existing spleen and stomach deficiency-cold might experience gastrointestinal irritation after consuming dandelion, leading to abdominal pain and diarrhea. In such cases, dandelion not only fails to relieve the effects of alcohol but may worsen discomfort.

When using dandelion to alleviate the effects of alcohol, it is important to control the dosage and avoid consumption on an empty stomach. If severe symptoms such as intense vomiting or confusion occur after drinking alcohol, dandelion should not be relied upon for relief, and immediate medical attention is necessary.