The term describes the consumption of alcohol to alleviate the symptoms of a hangover. This practice involves drinking a small amount of alcohol, often the same beverage that contributed to the hangover, with the intent of easing discomfort. A classic example might include a Bloody Mary consumed the morning after an evening of revelry.
Historically, the concept stems from the medieval belief that one could cure rabies by applying hair from the dog that caused the bite to the wound. The perceived benefit lies in the temporary numbing effect alcohol has on the body, masking hangover symptoms such as headache, nausea, and fatigue. However, while it may provide temporary relief, this approach does not address the underlying physiological causes of a hangover, such as dehydration and alcohol withdrawal.