During Tet, increased consumption of alcohol and fatty foods puts the liver under continuous strain to metabolize alcohol, often leading to overload. Dr. Doan Vinh Binh, from the Medical Information Center at Tam Anh General Hospital TP HCM, highlights several types of tea that are beneficial for liver and digestive health, recommending regular consumption during the holiday period.

**Brown Rice and Black Bean Tea**

Brown rice contains B vitamins, micronutrients, and rice bran oil, which help reduce LDL-cholesterol and boost metabolism. It is also rich in antioxidant compounds that can decrease oxidative stress and chronic inflammatory responses in liver cells. Black beans, with their high fiber and plant protein content, support improved digestion. The combination of brown rice and black beans creates a low-energy beverage that acts as a diuretic, thereby reducing the burden on the liver.

**Green Tea**

Green tea is abundant in catechins, powerful antioxidants that enhance liver function, activate detoxification enzymes, and protect liver cells from alcohol-induced damage. However, due to its caffeine content, green tea should not be consumed on an empty stomach or in large quantities in the evening, as it may cause stomach discomfort or insomnia.

Green tea is rich in antioxidants. Photo: Bao Bao

**Basil Tea**

Basil is rich in powerful antioxidants such as flavonoids, beta-carotene, eugenol, and linalool, which neutralize free radicals and offer strong anti-inflammatory effects. This tea helps reduce oxidative stress, a primary mechanism causing liver cell damage when the body metabolizes alcohol. Components in basil tea also contribute to relaxing nerves and alleviating bloating after protein- and fat-rich meals.

**Artichoke Tea**

The roots, stems, and leaves of artichoke contain cynarin and silymarin, which may aid in restoring liver function. This herb also includes inulin and tannin, known for their cholesterol-lowering and liver- and kidney-protective properties. Dr. Binh advises adults to consume 2-10 g of dried leaves or 5-10 g of dried artichoke flowers per day when brewing tea, to avoid side effects like gas and bloating.

**Voi Leaf Tea**

Voi leaves contain tannin and natural essential oils that stimulate digestive fluid secretion, support fat metabolism, and reduce bloating after protein- and fat-rich meals. By improving lipid digestion, the liver's metabolic burden is somewhat reduced. During Tet, it is recommended to drink voi leaf tea after meals, avoiding overly strong brews or consumption on an empty stomach.

Dr. Binh emphasizes that tea serves only as a health support. To protect the liver, individuals must limit alcohol intake, maintain a balanced diet, and ensure adequate rest. Supplementing with natural essences like Wasabia and S.Marianum can enhance detoxification, reduce inflammation and liver damage, and help prevent liver diseases.

Dinh Dieu