How to Cure Hangovers the Colombian Way

Colombians, known for elevating the art of partying and celebration to its highest expression, have also mastered the art of curing a hangover. Alcohol plays a central role in Colombian festivities and some liquors like aguardiente – an anise-flavored liquor, literally meaning “burning water” – are deeply engrained in the country’s culture.

Since Colombians often drink these strong liquors straight, they often experience a hangover afterwards, known locally as “guayabo.” To combat such hangovers, they rely on a mix of home remedies and medical advice to ease the discomfort.

Colombians’ home cures for hangover relief

Colombians have developed several traditional methods to combat hangover symptoms. These include:

Electrolytes

In Colombia, intravenous saline beverages are widely accessible and popular in supermarkets, grocery stores, and pharmacies. Brands like Pedialyte and Electrolit are two popular hydration drinks which Colombians use frequently for hangover relief. Beverages such as these are consumed either during parties alongside alcohol, or the next day.

The most popular drinks in Colombia are rum, aguardiente, and beer. There is a wide variety of brands and distilleries across the country. Each region, and even each city, has its own type of liquor and beer.

Soup

One of the most popular and comforting Colombian hangover cures is caldo de costilla (rib broth) or sancocho, a traditional soup. Since soup is easy to digest and rich in vitamins and minerals, it is a perfect way to recover energy without being too heavy.

Sancocho is a stew commonly made with a combination of meat (such as beef, chicken, pork, or fish), starchy vegetables (such as plantains, yuca, potatoes, or corn), and a medley of aromatic herbs and spices. It is one of the most traditional and emblematic Colombian meals, often associated with celebrations and family gatherings. In December in cities like Medellin, people cook sancochos over wood fires outside their homes, a process which gives the soup a special flavor.

‘La Bomba’

Another homemade hangover remedy popular in Colombia and Latin America is “La Bomba” (“The Bomb”), a drink made from soda and lemon juice. Soda’s effervescent effect can help calm the stomach, while lemon, known for its alkalizing properties, can help balance the body’s pH. A popular version of La Bomba involves adding lemon juice to Coca-Cola.

Fruit

Colombia is home to a wide variety of delicious fruits rich in vitamins. Some – such as papaya, banana, and tomato juice – are believed to help treat hangovers.

Some popular Colombian songs even include a humorous tribute to hangovers, including Jhon Alex Castaño’s “El Guayabo.”

Medical advice for relieving hangovers

Before consuming alcohol:

• Moderate alcohol consumption: During celebrations, it’s advised to drink alcohol in moderation.
• Water intake: Drinking a glass of water between alcoholic beverages can reduce alcohol consumption and dehydration.

After consuming alcohol, or during a hangover:

• Hydration: It is advised to drink plenty of water to counter dehydration. Natural juices are also recommended.
• Rest: Getting ample sleep in a quiet, dark room can significantly improve hangover symptoms.
• Cold bath: A cold bath or shower can help the body to ease numbness and refresh the mind.