Herbal & Flower Teas
Hawthorn, Roasted Cassia Seed & Chrysanthemum Tea
Traditionally supports the liver and helps the body manage blood lipids
Why people make this tea
Early fatty liver often gives no obvious signs, so Bro Niu says if you notice persistent tiredness, a poor appetite, upper-right belly discomfort, weight loss or occasional nausea, get checked — it could already be moderate fatty liver. And if you love rich, fatty fare, run heavy, or have diabetes, brewing a little hawthorn tea now and then is a sensible habit even before any symptoms appear. This blend is traditionally taken to support the liver and help the body manage blood lipids.
Who it suits / who should be cautious
- People who enjoy rich, fatty food, those carrying extra weight, and those mindful of the “three highs”
- Generally suitable as a daily brew
- Pregnant women should not drink it; those on blood-thinners should be careful (see Q&A below)
Why these ingredients (the food-therapy logic)
- Hawthorn (shan zha): traditionally aids digestion of rich, greasy food and is associated with moving blood and resolving stasis.
- Roasted cassia seeds (chao jue ming zi): associated with clearing the liver and supporting the bowels.
- Chrysanthemum (ju hua): cooling flower traditionally used to clear the liver and brighten the eyes.
Ingredients (1 pot)
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Hawthorn (shan zha) | 2 tbsp | |
| Roasted cassia seeds (chao jue ming zi) | 1 tbsp | Dry-roasted |
| Chrysanthemum (ju hua) | 1 tbsp | |
| Boiling water | 1 pot |
Method
- Put the ingredients in a teapot and give them a quick rinse with boiling water once.
- Pour in fresh boiling water and steep, covered, for 10 minutes. Drink.
Bro Niu’s tips
Some dried-seafood and herb shops sell pre-roasted cassia seeds; if not, dry-roast your own in a clean dry wok for about 7 minutes and store them, ready to use any time. This tea is slightly tart and fine for most people, but pregnant women should not have it.
Community questions answered (selected)
-
Q (anonymous): Is this tea suitable for someone who has had angioplasty and must take aspirin / antiplatelet medicine long-term? Bro Niu: Hawthorn moves blood and resolves stasis, so if you are on long-term blood-thinners, don’t overuse hawthorn — take it about 2 hours after your medication, twice a week.
-
Q (anonymous): When I drink hot lemon water, can I add some stevia leaf? Bro Niu: Stevia leaf can replace sugar without raising blood sugar, but don’t add much or it becomes hard to drink.
Published December 16, 2025 · Adapted and translated for Nourilo from a traditional home-kitchen recipe. Approx. 2 min read.
