Four Hangover Remedies That Beijing Residents Swear By

      It's Christmas Eve, and if you're planning to celebrate with some festive drinks, you might be in search of the best hangover remedy to help you through the holidays. This has us wondering: how do locals in Beijing treat a bad hangover?

      While there are numerous Chinese hangover cures, some related to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), we've put together a list of four that you can easily find at your local convenience store, without needing a pharmacist.

      **Sour Plum Soup 酸梅汤 (Suānméitāng)**

      Originating from the Song Dynasty, suanmeitang is a drink made from smoked plums and rock sugar. Although this beverage is typically enjoyed by older Beijingers during the summer, it's also recognized as a hangover remedy. Many locals believe that sour plum is good for the liver and that consuming suanmeitang can speed up the breakdown of alcohol.

      **Dòuzhī er 豆汁儿**

      This drink, made from fermented mung beans, is one that people either love or hate; its slightly sour, eggy aroma is not for everyone. As a classic breakfast choice in the capital, many people rely on douzhi'er after a night of drinking, convinced it will help alleviate their hangover quickly.

      **Chinese Cabbage with Mustard 芥末墩儿 (Jièmò dūn er)**

      One cannot truly claim to be a Beijinger without trying this dish. It may appear simple, but the mustard used here is reportedly ten times stronger than Japanese wasabi, making it quite a potent snack. Commonly served during Chinese New Year celebrations, it is also a popular choice for Beijingers looking to recover after a night of drinking.

      Regardless of how hungover you feel, just a bite of this will wake you up instantly. Challenge yourself to see how long you can handle the spice.

      **Old Beijing Yogurt 老北京酸奶 (Lǎo běijīng suānnǎi)**

      You've likely encountered these charming little clay pots with paper lids, into which you can insert straws, scattered throughout Beijing. You might be surprised to learn that this Beijing-style yogurt is highly effective for combating a bad hangover. The next time you wake up feeling groggy, give it a try in the morning; I assure you that these laobeijing suannai will revitalize your body and restore your energy.

      **READ:** Welcome 2026 With These New Year Parties, Meals & More Pt.1

      Images: Unsplash, Uni You, Dianping, Weibo

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