8 Best Teas for Liver Health

The liver is the body’s main detoxifying organ but is easily damaged by alcohol, fatty foods, medications, and chemicals. 

Many herbal teas contain antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that help protect and strengthen the liver. This article explores the 8 best teas for supporting liver health and overall wellness

8 Best Teas for Liver Health

Green Tea (EGCG)

Green tea is rich in polyphenols, especially EGCG, a powerful antioxidant that reduces oxidative stress and inflammation in the liver. A study by Tang et al. (2021) showed that green tea/EGCG may protect the liver by lowering oxidative stress and inflammation [1].

A meta-analysis of several clinical trials found that green tea consumption helped reduce liver enzyme levels in NAFLD patients (Mahmoodi et al., 2020).

Research by Tabatabaee S. M. et al. (2017) evaluated green tea’s effect on NAFLD through a randomized, double-blind trial. 

Patients took 550 mg green tea capsules daily for 3 months compared to a placebo group. Results showed significant improvement in BMI, AST liver enzymes, and fasting blood glucose, while other parameters remained unchanged [3].

Green tea can be enjoyed plain or enhanced with lemon, ginger, or honey for better taste and possibly improved catechin absorption.

Dandelion Root Tea

Dandelion root (Taraxacum officinale) has long been considered a traditional liver tonic. Folk medicine describes it as a diuretic, bile stimulant, and detox aid. 

Modern studies support these effects: animal experiments showed that dandelion root extract given before liver injury significantly reduced liver enzymes (AST, ALT, ALP) and signs of inflammation [4]. However, more human studies are needed to gain a comprehensive understanding.

To make dandelion flower tea, pick blossoms in the morning when fully open, remove green parts to avoid bitterness, and wash thoroughly. Dry them on a clean cloth under the sun and store airtight. 

For tea, steep about 1 teaspoon of fresh or dried flowers in hot water for 5–10 minutes, strain, and optionally add honey or lemon. In medieval Europe, dandelion flowers were used medicinally and recorded by Hildegard von Bingen for their traditional uses in medieval Europe.

Milk Thistle

Milk thistle (Silybum marianum) contains the antioxidant complex silymarin (including silibinin). Silymarin tends to concentrate in the liver, helping protect liver cells by reducing oxidative stress [5].

According to a study by Mirhashemi S. H. et al. (2022), taking 560 mg of milk thistle powder (silymarin) daily for 8 weeks helped lower liver enzymes, improved ultrasound liver imaging, and supported mild weight loss. However, indicators related to liver fibrosis did not show significant changes [5].

An Amazon user shared an experience using a product that combined TUDCA and milk thistle, two ingredients believed to support liver health.*

TUDCA helps protect and improve liver function, while milk thistle provides antioxidant and detox support. Keisha noted an improvement in energy and plans to continue using the product.*

Turmeric Tea / Chai Blends

Turmeric (Curcuma longa) contains curcumin, a strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compound. A recent meta-analysis showed that curcumin supplementation supported improved liver metabolism [6].

However, curcumin is poorly absorbed on its own, so turmeric tea is often paired with black pepper (rich in piperine) or lemon to boost absorption (El-Saadony et al., 2023).

Many chai-style blends combine turmeric with ginger, cinnamon, star anise, and other spices, enhancing flavor while providing synergistic anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits for the liver.

Pu-erh Tea (Fermented Tea)

Pu-erh tea is a specially fermented dark tea. Animal studies have shown that pu-erh extracts can significantly reduce fatty liver and inflammation caused by high-fat diets [8]. 

However, evidence in humans is still limited, and more clinical studies are required to confirm these effects.

Specifically, pu-erh may support healthy lipid and glucose metabolism based on preclinical data; human studies are limited.

Brewing and consumption tips:

• Serving size: Pu-erh tea can be consumed daily, typically 1–3 cups (about 240–710 ml) safely. Beginners may start with 1–2 cups to allow the body to adjust.

• Brewing method: Use about 3–4 g of tea leaves (or a small tea cake) per cup. Rinse the leaves twice with boiling water to remove dust and enhance flavor purity. Then steep in hot water for about 2 minutes or adjust to taste, and pour into cups. Milk, cream, or sweeteners may be added if desired.

Detox Tea Blends (Dandelion, Lapacho, Honeybush)

Some pre-mixed “detox” teas combine several herbs.

A common example blends dandelion root (as described earlier) with lapacho (also known as Pau d’Arco) and honeybush.

Lapacho contains compounds such as lapachol with antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties, though evidence is still preliminary [9].

Honeybush (a South African legume-based red tea) is caffeine-free and rich in antioxidant polyphenols [10].

These blends are often marketed for “liver detox” and general wellness.

However, scientific evidence is still limited. Users should be cautious, as excessive or prolonged use can lead to an overload of active compounds and potential drug interactions.

Ginger Tea

Fresh ginger (Zingiber officinale) has anti-inflammatory and digestive-support properties. A meta-analysis of four clinical trials showed that adding ginger to the diet significantly reduced ALT liver enzymes and improved insulin resistance in a randomized trial; findings were not uniform across all endpoints.[11].

This suggests that ginger tea or ginger juice may help lower liver enzymes and support metabolic function in fatty liver. Ginger tea also helps relieve indigestion, nausea, and may boost immunity. It is often consumed hot or combined with green tea or turmeric tea to enhance liver protection.

Licorice Root Tea

Licorice root (Glycyrrhiza glabra) contains glycyrrhizin, which has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. However, glycyrrhizin can mimic the hormone aldosterone, leading to salt retention and potassium loss, which may cause high blood pressure and edema. 

Clinical studies show that prolonged licorice intake can cause pseudoaldosteronism, marked by elevated blood pressure and significant hypokalemia [12].

Therefore, while licorice tea can help reduce inflammation and soothe the throat, it should be used cautiously—avoid high doses or long-term use, especially in individuals with hypertension or heart disease.

Brewing Tips for Maximum Benefits

Safety & Precautions

• Some herbs in high doses or concentrated extracts can harm the liver. Over 200 cases of liver injury have been linked to high-dose green tea extracts (e.g., weight-loss pills) (Donata Grajecki et al., 2022).

• Herbs can interact with medications: ginseng, licorice, astragalus, etc. may affect diabetes, blood pressure, and diuretic drugs.

• People with liver conditions or on long-term medications should consult a doctor before using liver-supporting teas or herbs. Regular liver enzyme checks and professional advice help ensure safety.

Conclusion

These teas provide natural compounds supporting liver health—EGCG in green tea, silymarin in milk thistle, curcumin in turmeric, gingerol in ginger. 

When combined with a healthy diet and lifestyle (limiting alcohol, eating more greens), they can support the liver’s natural detoxification processes and overall function. Choose teas suitable to your condition, use in moderation, and monitor liver health regularly.