The Effects of Java Water-Dropwort (Oenanthe javanica) Extract on Alcohol Metabolism and Hangover Symptoms: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Crossover Clinical Trial

TL;DR

A study found that Java water-dropwort extract may reduce hangover symptoms and improve alcohol metabolism in healthy adults.

Contribution

This is the first clinical trial demonstrating Java water-dropwort's efficacy in reducing hangover severity and alcohol metabolism markers.

Findings

Java water-dropwort reduced blood alcohol concentration area under the curve compared to placebo.

The extract also significantly lowered acetaldehyde levels and hangover symptom scores.

No adverse events were reported during the trial.

Abstract

Alcohol hangover is a significant health concern worldwide. Java water-dropwort (Oenanthe javanica) has been traditionally used in East Asia for treating hepatitis, jaundice, and alcohol hangovers. This study evaluated the effects of java water-dropwort extract formulation on alcohol metabolism and hangover symptoms. A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover trial was conducted with 36 healthy adults aged 19–40 years. Participants received either java water-dropwort extract formulation (8.71 mL equivalent to 6.69 g raw material) or placebo 30 min before alcohol consumption (0.8 g/kg body weight, 20.1% soju). Blood alcohol and acetaldehyde concentrations were measured at multiple time points up to 15 h post consumption. Hangover symptoms were assessed using the Alcohol Hangover Severity Scale and Acute Hangover Scale. A total of 36 participants were enrolled, and 33 completed the study per protocol. Blood alcohol area under the curve (AUC) was significantly lower in the java water-dropwort group (58.626 vs. 66.194 mmol·h/L, p = 0.008). Blood acetaldehyde AUC was also significantly reduced (69.794 vs. 88.205 mg·h/dL, p = 0.031). Hangover symptom scores in the test group were significantly lower than those in the placebo group (4.030 vs. 8.606, p = 0.026). No adverse events occurred. Java water-dropwort extract effectively enhanced alcohol metabolism and improved hangover symptoms, offering potential therapeutic value for hangover management.

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