Wait. 2020??? I honestly don’t know where this year has gone, much less this past decade. The thought of starting a fresh, new year and decade is pretty exciting to me. My head starts to swirl with all of the possibilities relating to my family, career, and fun times ahead.
Speaking of fun times, if your New Year’s Eve is filled with a massive amount of celebrating, that often comes with a price. Upset stomachs, headaches, fatigue, and sore feet can prevent us from taking on January 1 as our best selves.
To help you feel better after a night of festivities, here are some natural remedies that will help take the edge off…
Ginger
One of the most beneficial and beloved herbs, ginger is a natural go-to for help with your hangover. Known for its stomach-settling effects, it also stimulates blood flow and your metabolism. Sip on some ginger tea — whether it’s from pre-packaged tea bags or sliced, fresh root — or nibble on some fresh or candied ginger to help ease the effects of overindulging.
Turmeric
This vibrant root is famous for its anti-inflammatory properties, making it an all-around wise choice in your quest for post-party good health. It also plays a role in liver cell regeneration. The dried root can be added to foods (I saute’ some in olive oil, then crack a couple eggs and whisk them up every morning) or can be combined with other herbs to sip as a tea. Pill forms are also available. As with all of these choices, be sure to get organic whenever possible.
Chamomile
Helping with headaches and upset stomachs, chamomile is also known for its calming effects. Sipping this as a tea is delightful (and hydrating!). But if you’re looking for another relaxing alternative, try soaking in a chamomile salt bath. To keep it super easy, run your bath, add a half dozen chamomile tea bags and some Epsom salts, then let your biggest organ — your skin — do the detoxing while you focus on your breath.
Mint
This herb is fantastic for relieving nausea and headaches, as well as boosting energy levels and bringing some mental clarity to your foggy self. Because it’s such a popular flavor, you’ll have no trouble finding ways to consume this plant. Try it as a tea, (carefully) inhale its essential oil, or suck on an Altoid for a burst of minty happiness.
Fennel
Dried seeds or freshly chopped, fennel will definitely help with your digestive ailments. If you’re not a fan of black licorice, you might want to skip the seeds of this plant because they taste just like that. However, if you don’t mind that flavor, chomp on a teaspoon or so of the seeds to help with gas or indigestion. Fresh fennel is a lovely accent to salads (and doesn’t taste like licorice). You can also toss some of the seeds into hot water and sip as a tea.
Sparkling Water
Cool, hydrating, and bubbly, sparkling water will help you get on your feet in no time. My favorite is the Simple Truth Sparkling Waters from Ralph’s. They’re organic and have a nice variety of flavors. Sip it straight from the can or spruce it up with mint, lime, lemon, or other fruits to mix it up a bit.
Epsom Salt Soak
Whether you put your feet into a bowl of warm water or you run a bath for your entire body, Epsom salts will help pull out all of the ick from deep inside. You’ll find these salts at your grocery store or pharmacy, in plain or scented varieties. I usually go for the plain version so I can add whatever I want to my bath. Lavender is nice, as are rose petals. Those versions are more for luxury and less for detoxification, but they’re still beneficial to soothe your soul.
May your new year be filled with love, happiness, good health, and glorious experiences. Be well…