Ophiopogon, Goji Berry and Chrysanthemum Tea

Why people make this tea

Most people associate fatty liver with heavy drinking or obesity, but it can also develop from protein malnutrition, abnormal lipid metabolism, or long-term use of medications such as painkillers, antibiotics and steroids that place strain on the liver. Early-stage fatty liver often produces no symptoms at all, which makes it easy to overlook. Only as it progresses does it start to cause upper abdominal discomfort, fatigue, poor appetite or foggy thinking.

This simple three-ingredient tea takes just minutes to prepare. In traditional Chinese food therapy, the combination of ophiopogon, goji and chrysanthemum is believed to nourish liver yin, inhibit the accumulation of fat within liver cells, and support liver cell regeneration. It is also pleasant for the eyes — a welcome bonus for anyone spending long hours at a screen.

Method

1. Place all ingredients into a reusable tea bag or loose-leaf strainer.
2. Put into a teapot or large mug.
3. Pour off the first rinse of boiling water immediately to wash the herbs.
4. Pour fresh boiling water over the herbs and steep for 10 minutes.
5. Drink in portions throughout the day; refill with boiling water until the flavour is spent.

Nourilo’s Tips

This tea is fragrant and pleasant. Its three ingredients work together in a complementary way: goji enriches and nourishes, ophiopogon cools and moistens, and chrysanthemum clears heat and brightens the eyes. Together they are associated with slowing the accumulation of fat in liver cells and supporting liver cell renewal. For vision health, this is also a fine daily tea. If you prefer to make it as a cold drink, you can brew it on the stovetop, allow it to cool, then refrigerate — but warm it slightly before drinking to protect the stomach.