How to Avoid a Bhang Hangover for Holi 2024

Holi, The festival of colors, a vibrant explosion of joy, laughter, and communal revelry. But amidst the intoxicating thandai and the playful drenching in colored powder, lurks a potential post-celebratory foe – the dreaded bhang hangover.

For the uninitiated, bhang, a traditional Holi beverage made from cannabis leaves, can induce a delightful euphoria in moderate doses. However, overindulgence can lead to a range of unpleasant after-effects, including lethargy, dry mouth, cottonhead, and even anxiety.

Fear not, fellow Holi revelers! This year, conquer the post-bhang blues and bounce back with these expert tips to ensure a vibrant and hangover-free Holi celebration in 2024.

Hydration is Your Holi Hero

Bhang, like most psychoactive substances, can dehydrate you. This dehydration is often the root cause of many hangover symptoms. Here's how to stay ahead of the curve:

• Start your Holi festivities well-hydrated. In the days leading up to Holi, increase your water intake and incorporate hydrating fruits and vegetables like watermelon, cucumber, and oranges into your diet.
• Thandai, the quintessential Holi drink, is often made with milk and nuts, which can be dehydrating. Alternate glasses of thandai with plain water or coconut water to ensure your body stays replenished.
• Once the celebrations wind down, prioritize rehydration. Opt for coconut water, buttermilk (lassi), or plain water with a squeeze of lemon or electrolytes to replenish lost fluids and minerals.

Food: Friend or Foe

Food choices can significantly impact your bhang experience and its aftermath. Here's how to strategically fuel your Holi:

• Before indulging in bhang, have a wholesome meal rich in complex carbohydrates and healthy fats. This slows down the absorption of bhang into your system, preventing an intense high and a harsher hangover. Opt for brown rice, dal (lentils), and vegetables.
• During Holi, avoid heavy, greasy foods that can further strain your digestive system. Snack on fruits, nuts, and yogurt to maintain steady blood sugar levels and combat nausea.
• Once the effects of bhang wear off, prioritize easily digestible yet nourishing foods. Opt for khichdi (lentil and rice porridge), vegetable soup, or plain toast.

Spice Up Your Recovery

Spices like ginger and clove are natural remedies with anti-inflammatory and digestive properties. Here's how to incorporate them into your post-bhang recovery:

• Brew a soothing cup of ginger tea with honey. Ginger is known to alleviate nausea and settle your stomach.
• Add a drop of clove oil (diluted with carrier oil) to a cup of warm water and gargle. Clove oil has mild anesthetic properties that can help with a sore throat – a common bhang hangover symptom.

Rest and Relaxation

Your body needs time to recover from the effects of bhang. Here's how to prioritize rest and relaxation:

• Don't fight the urge to take a nap. Allow your body to rest and metabolize the bhang. A good nap can significantly improve your energy levels and alleviate grogginess.
• Create a calming environment after the celebrations. Dim the lights, listen to calming music, or take a warm bath to ease anxiety and promote relaxation.
• Schedule your Holi celebrations for a day when you have the following day free. This allows your body ample time to recover without any pressing commitments.

Know Your Limits

The best way to avoid a bhang hangover is to consume it responsibly. Start with a small amount and wait at least an hour before having more. Remember, it's always better to be wise to prioritize caution. You can always add more, but you can't take it away!

Holi is a time for joy, connection, and celebrating the triumph of good over evil. By following these expert tips, you can ensure a vibrant and enjoyable Holi celebration without succumbing to the dreaded bhang hangover. Remember, responsible consumption, hydration, and prioritizing rest are your key allies in conquering the post-bhang blues.

Also Read: Holi Shayari: Paint Your Words with the Colors of Joy