Herbal & Flower Teas
Hawthorn, Ophiopogon & Chrysanthemum Tea
Traditionally associated with helping prevent fatty liver and supporting the 'three highs'
Why people make this tea
Fatty liver has become very common. The liver is the body’s “chemical factory,” processing fats and alcohol; if the body is overweight or drinks too much, liver function can weaken, fat metabolism suffers, and fatty liver can form. Its causes are complex — genetics, obesity, high blood lipids, diabetes, overly rapid weight loss, and medications — with obesity, alcohol, and diabetes the most common. Mild fatty liver is easy to overlook, but left unattended for a long time it can become a serious health problem. Eating less rich, fatty food and getting more exercise matter a great deal, and Bro Niu offers this Hawthorn, Ophiopogon & Chrysanthemum Tea, traditionally favoured to help guard against fatty liver, for regular drinking.
Who it suits / who should be cautious
- People wanting to help guard against fatty liver, and those living with the “three highs.”
- Those with excess stomach acid should drink it after meals; pregnant women should not use hawthorn.
Why these ingredients (the food-therapy logic)
- Hawthorn (shan zha): Traditionally associated with helping reduce fat and supporting healthy blood lipids.
- Ophiopogon (mai dong): Traditionally associated with moistening and nourishing fluids.
- Chrysanthemum (ju hua): Traditionally associated with clearing liver heat and brightening the eyes.
Ingredients (2 bowls)
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Hawthorn (shan zha) | 1 tablespoon | Rinsed |
| Ophiopogon (mai dong) | 1 tablespoon | Rinsed |
| Chrysanthemum (ju hua) | 1 tablespoon | Rinsed |
Method
- Rinse the ingredients clean.
- Add 4 bowls of water and cook for 20 minutes until reduced to 2 bowls.
- Divide and drink over the day.
Bro Niu’s tips
This tea is traditionally associated with helping reduce fat and supporting against the “three highs,” but those with excess stomach acid should drink it after meals. Pregnant women should not use hawthorn.
Community questions answered (selected)
- Q (Amber): I have mild fatty liver and hepatitis B — can I drink this tea? Bro Niu: This tea suits people with fatty liver and hepatitis B; 3 doses a week.
- Q (du zhong cha): A family elder has slightly high blood sugar (no medication) and wants to drink luo luo flower, but it is cooling — what can be added to reduce the cooling nature? Bro Niu: You can add a small pinch of goji when steeping to temper its cooling nature (about 2 teaspoons).
- Q (Xiao Qing): With a weak liver, can I eat shrimp and drink sour hawthorn tea? Bro Niu: With a weak liver, any food in moderation is fine. The most important things are to stop drinking alcohol, sleep early, and not stay up late. Sour herbs like hawthorn and wu wei zi are fine if not overused. Chicken bone grass and yin chen lean pork soup can be used more often, and loach is also good for the liver.
Published November 2, 2025 · Adapted and translated for Nourilo from a traditional home-kitchen recipe. Approx. 2 min read.
