Hawthorn Berry & Lotus Leaf Tea

Why people make this tea

Hawthorn berries (shan zha) are one of the most widely used digestive aids in Chinese food therapy. They contain a fat-digesting enzyme (lipase) that helps the body break down fatty and greasy foods more efficiently, which is why this tea is particularly popular after a heavy meal. For children, it is a classic remedy for food stagnation (“shi zhi” — that overstuffed, uncomfortable feeling after eating too much). For adults looking to manage their weight over time, combining hawthorn with lotus leaf is a traditional and still very common pairing: lotus leaf is associated with clearing heat, reducing fluid retention, and supporting the metabolism of fats in traditional Chinese medicine. Together, this tea is best enjoyed after lunch or dinner as a pleasant, tart digestive drink.