Jingfang Granules for prevention of alcohol-induced hangover: a randomized, double-blind, crossover trial in healthy volunteers

Introduction Jingfang Granules (JFG), a classical traditional Chinese medicine formula comprising 11 botanical drugs, have traditionally been prescribed to dispel cold and eliminate dampness. This study aimed to clinically evaluate the efficacy and safety of JFG in accelerating alcohol clearance and mitigating hangover symptoms. Methods A randomized, double-blind, two-period crossover trial enrolled 48 healthy adults. Participants received JFG (6 sachets × 15 g) or placebo 30 min before consuming 100 mL of 56% ABV baijiu within 10 min. Primary endpoints were plasma alcohol concentrations measured up to 24 h post-consumption. Secondary endpoints included plasma alcohol AUC 0–24 h , plasma alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH) and acetaldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH) activities, hangover severity assessed using the Acute Hangover Scale (AHS), urine output, and safety. Results JFG significantly reduced plasma alcohol concentrations from 30 min to 8 h after consumption (P < 0.005) and decreased plasma alcohol AUC 0–24 h (P < 0.001) compared with placebo. AHS scores were numerically lower following JFG treatment; however, the differences were not statistically significant (P > 0.05). JFG administration was associated with greater urine volume (P < 0.001) and fewer urination episodes (P = 0.032). No severe or serious adverse events were reported. Discussion JFG significantly reduced plasma alcohol levels for up to 8 h after consumption and showed a trend toward lower hangover symptom scores; however, the mechanism remains unknown. Clinical Trial Registration https://www.chictr.org.cn/ , identifier ChiCTR2400084155.