If you’ve ever woken up feeling the after effects of a fun night out, you know how tough it can be to shake off a hangover, especially the older you get! Kwangdong’s Oriental Raisin Tree Hangover Drink just might be your savior in a mini glass bottle.
What is Oriental Raisin Tree?
Oriental raisin tree extract, also known as Hovenia dulcis extract, comes from the fruit or seeds of the Hovenia dulcis tree, or Japanese Raisin Tree, which is native to East Asia. The tree is known for its sweet, raisin-like fruit stems (called peduncles), which have been used for centuries in traditional medicine. It grows up to 10–30 meters tall and thrives in warmer climates, producing small, fragrant flowers and fruits that resemble clusters of grapes, though the edible part is the stem. In traditional Korean, Chinese and Japanese medicine, this extract has been long used for its potential health benefits, particularly supporting liver function and detoxification. It is most commonly recognized for its ability to help alleviate hangover symptoms. The extract contains compounds like dihydromyricetin (DHM), which is thought to aid in breaking down alcohol in the body, reducing its toxic effects, and potentially protecting the liver from alcohol-related damage. Beyond hangover relief, the oriental raisin tree has also been used historically for its antioxidant properties and to help with hydration.
Kwangdong Oriental Raisin Tree Hangover Drink
- Kwangdong makes a tea version which you can find in the cold drinks aisle, or in one of these glass bottles.
- You can purchase these bottles (3.3 fl oz, 100mL) as a single, or in a box of 10.
Honest Review/Thoughts
I like to treat it as a “preventative”. When I spend a night drinking, I down a bottle before bed, or in between drinks. I find that this really does help with some of the hangover symptoms I would get, like headaches and nausea. The taste itself isn’t bad. The drink is syrupy, and a little sweet. It reminds me of a cranberry concentrate, mixed with an herbal licorice flavor.
I think it’s very important to say that this isn’t a “magic cure” or a “fix-all”. This tincture, combined with water consumption throughout the night, has worked for me and my 30 year old self. I definitely think it’s worth a try if you’re curious!
Where to Buy Kwangdong Oriental Raisin Tree Hangover Drink
I purchased Kwangdong Oriental Raisin Tree Hangover Drinkat my local Korean markets in the glass tincture section or medicine aisle – Kukje Supermarket (Daly City) and H-Mart.