Effect of Theracurmin Products for Alleviating Alcohol Hangovers in Healthy Adults.
Yeongtaek Hwang, Paul Kim, Minji Kwon, Sung-Vin Yim, Bo-Hyung Kim, Hyunjung Lim
Abstract
Open AccessBackground/Objectives: Excessive alcohol consumption leads to hangovers, which cause discomfort and reduce work efficiency, resulting in socioeconomic losses. Theracurmin, known for its antioxidant and hepatoprotective properties, may help mitigate these effects. We evaluated the efficacy and safety of two Theracurmin-based products in alleviating hangover symptoms in humans. Methods: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover trial was conducted in 27 healthy adults, with a balanced distribution of men and women. Two formulations were tested: Ready Q, containing Theracurmin, Hovenia dulcis Thunb. extract powder, and L-glutathione yeast extract; and Theracurmin, containing only Theracurmin. The products were administered on designated visit days, followed by an alcohol challenge 30 min after administration. Blood and breath alcohol profiles were assessed 15 h post-consumption, and participants completed a hangover symptom questionnaire. Results: Compared to placebo, Ready Q resulted in a significantly lower area under the curve (AUC) for serum alcohol concentration (-94.92 mg·h/dL [-170.91, -18.93]), as well as lower AUC (-8.441 mg·h/dL [-11.713, -5.169]) for serum acetaldehyde. Theracurmin showed similar effects, with reduced AUC (-117.21 mg·h/dL [-194.20, -40.22]) for serum alcohol concentration, and lower AUC (-8.161 mg·h/dL [-12.597, -3.725]) for corrected serum acetaldehyde levels. Conclusions: These findings suggest that both products effectively enhance alcohol metabolism in healthy adults, underscoring their potential as interventions for alleviating alcohol hangovers.