Preliminary study of the effects of orengedokuto on breath alcohol concentration

Aim Orengedokuto (coptis detoxification decoction) is a medicinal extract widely used in Japan for the alleviation of symptoms of alcohol hangover and flush reaction. There have been no studies, however, on the effects of this medication on the concentration of alcohol in humans. The aim of this preliminary experiment was therefore to determine the effects of orengedokuto given before alcohol consumption, on breath alcohol concentration. Methods Three healthy adults participated in the experiment. Breath alcohol concentration was measured with a breathalyzer at multiple intervals under two conditions: one with only the alcoholic beverage and one with orengedokuto extract (Matsuura orengedokuto fine powdered extract, 1.45 g) followed by an alcoholic beverage. Results There was a lower peak and a faster decrease in breath alcohol concentration when the extract was given prior to alcohol consumption, suggesting that the extract accelerated the metabolism and/or inhibited the absorption of alcohol. Conclusions This preliminary study was limited by small sample size and lack of blood sampling. Additional trials using a cross-over design with a larger sample size to further investigate the effects of orengedokuto on blood ethanol and acetaldehyde levels after consumption of alcohol, are currently in progress.