Introduction
Indonesia is known for its vibrant nightlife and incredible party culture. However, the morning after a night of partying can be quite challenging, especially if you have a hangover. While some people swear by traditional hangover cures like drinking coconut water, eating bananas, or drinking tomato juice, there is a new hangover cure that is gaining popularity – activated charcoal.
What is Activated Charcoal?
Activated charcoal is a fine, black powder that is made from a variety of sources, including coconut shells, wood, and peat. It is heated to a high temperature, which “activates” it and makes it more porous. This increased porosity allows the charcoal to absorb toxins and impurities from the body.
How Does Activated Charcoal Help with Hangovers?
When you drink alcohol, your body metabolizes it into acetaldehyde, a toxic substance that can cause headaches, nausea, and other hangover symptoms. Activated charcoal works by adsorbing (not absorbing) acetaldehyde and other toxins from the body, preventing them from being absorbed into the bloodstream and causing further damage.
How to Use Activated Charcoal for Hangover Cure
Activated charcoal can be taken in capsule form, mixed with water, or added to a smoothie. The recommended dosage for hangover relief is 1-2 capsules (500-1000mg) taken with a full glass of water. It is essential to drink plenty of water when taking activated charcoal to prevent dehydration.
Precautions When Using Activated Charcoal
While activated charcoal is generally safe to use, there are some precautions you should take when using it. First, it can interfere with the absorption of certain medications, so it is essential to wait at least two hours after taking any medication before using activated charcoal. Second, it can cause constipation in some people, so be sure to drink plenty of water and eat high-fiber foods when using activated charcoal.
Conclusion
Activated charcoal is a natural and effective way to treat hangovers. It works by adsorbing toxins and impurities from the body, preventing them from being absorbed into the bloodstream and causing further damage. While it is generally safe to use, it is essential to take precautions when using activated charcoal and to drink plenty of water to prevent dehydration.
Sources:
- https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/322609
- https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/activated-charcoal
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6825721/