Mezcal, a jewel of Mexican tradition, has captured hearts not only for its unique flavor and rich cultural heritage but also for its reputation of being more body-friendly the next day. But is this a myth, or is there science behind the claim that mezcal causes less hangover than other spirits? Here we explore the scientific reasons that could explain this phenomenon.

1. The purity of the distillation process

One of the key factors that distinguishes mezcal from other spirits is its artisanal distillation process. Mezcal is distilled in small batches and with great care, using traditional methods that have been perfected over generations. This results in a high-purity distillate, with fewer congeners.
Congeners are chemical compounds produced during fermentation and distillation. Some studies suggest that congeners significantly contribute to the severity of hangovers. The artisanal methods of mezcal minimize the presence of these unwanted compounds, thereby reducing the likelihood of a severe hangover.

2. Natural and organic ingredients

Mezcal is made from agave, a plant that is grown naturally and organically in many regions of Mexico. Unlike some other spirits that may include artificial additives and added sugars, pure mezcal stays true to its natural roots.
The high sugar content in some alcoholic beverages can contribute to dehydration, one of the main factors of a hangover. By keeping its process and ingredients as natural as possible, mezcal can help avoid these negative effects.

3. Moderation and consumption culture

The consumption of mezcal in Mexican culture is often associated with rituals and celebrations that emphasize appreciation and moderate enjoyment. Unlike other spirits that are consumed quickly in large quantities, mezcal is sipped slowly, allowing those who enjoy it to savor each note and aroma.
This focus on moderation can result in lower alcohol intake over a short period of time, which significantly reduces the risk of a severe hangover. Taking the time to enjoy each sip also allows the body to metabolize the alcohol more efficiently.

4. Antioxidants and health benefits

Agave contains a variety of antioxidant compounds, which are transferred to mezcal during the distillation process. Antioxidants can help mitigate some of the negative effects of alcohol consumption by combating oxidative stress in the body.
Although research in this area is still in its early stages, some studies suggest that the antioxidants in mezcal may contribute to a lower severity of hangovers compared to spirits that contain fewer of these beneficial compounds.

5. Alcohol profile

Mezcal, especially high-quality mezcal, mainly contains ethanol and very few other types of alcohol, such as methanol. Methanol has been associated with more severe hangovers, and its low presence in mezcal may explain why its consumers tend to experience less intense hangovers.
At Mezcal 33, we take pride in offering a product that is not only delicious and authentic but also kinder to your body. The next time you raise a glass of mezcal, savor it with confidence, knowing you are enjoying one of the purest and most carefully crafted beverages in the world. Cheers!