Hangover cures from around the world
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The discovery of alcoholic brews dates to ancient times. And it’s a safe bet that the discovery of the hangover was not far behind. From cow’s stomach to the hair of the dog, various cultures have developed cures to deal with overindulgence. Here are a dozen we’ve come across, with some help from a group of college students who picked up tips while spending a semester or two steeped in global cultures.
Compiled by Spencer Bates and Sophie Hoeller of Boston University, Erin Kiley of the University of New Hampshire, Jeanine Navarette of Wellesley College, Julia Kitlinski-Hong of Emmanuel College, Paul Makishima, Globe staff, and National Geographic Magazine
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Ecuador

Oregano tea is prescribed as a way to settle a stomach. Also an interesting tidbit is that hangover is called ‘‘chuchaqui,’’ a term from Quechua, an ancient language. So it seems that hangover problems are far from new.
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Italy

Large quantities of strong, homemade espresso.
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Canada

Canada Dry Ginger Ale, which was first developed in Canada. Ironically, Canada Dry says that it got a big boost in ginger ale sales during Prohibition, when customers learned that the beverage did a good job masking the harsh flavor of home brew.
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Japan

A helping of umeboshi, or dried sour plums, which are thought to improve liver function and aid digestion.
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Germany

Pickled herring wrapped around a pickle or an onion (called rollmops). In Bavaria, some prefer ‘‘weisswurst frühstück’’: a pretzel, white sausage, and beer.
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Poland

A glass of juice from either sour pickles or sauerkraut.
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Russia

Many head straight for the banya, or sauna, for a quick session, followed by a flailing with birch leaves. In the Caucasus region, some swear by raw eggs.
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United States

Prairie Oyster, a drink made with tomato juice, Worcestershire sauce, a dash of hot pepper sauce, and a raw egg yolk.
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Scotland

Irn Bru, a bright orange, sweet, slightly citrus-y, carbonated soft drink that has advertised itself as ‘‘bru’d from girders.’’ Now available in diet.
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Mongolia

Pickled sheep eyeballs in tomato juice are said to be the traditional treatment
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China

Strong green tea or water with lemon is the way to go.
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Mexico

Menudo, a soup made with tripe (the lining of a cow’s stomach) and usually spiced with garlic, onion, chiles, cumin,and oregano. Smells like a spicy barn. Some also believe in the curative powers of shrimp.
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