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

Alcohol hangover is a significant health concern worldwide. Java water-dropwort (<i>Oenanthe javanica</i>) 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, <i>p</i> = 0.008). Blood acetaldehyde AUC was also significantly reduced (69.794 vs. 88.205 mg·h/dL, <i>p</i> = 0.031). Hangover symptom scores in the test group were significantly lower than those in the placebo group (4.030 vs. 8.606, <i>p</i> = 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.