As 2025 comes to an end, I believe one of the most common goals for 2026 resolutions will be losing weight. While this goal may feel slightly exaggerated for me personally, prioritising health and fitness remains a shared aspiration for many people.
Following a series of indulgent celebrations from the Winter Solstice through to New Year’s Eve, frequent feasting, alcohols and sweets left me feeling noticeably bloated. On one morning, I experienced a bitter taste in my mouth accompanied by mild sour regurgitation. These symptoms suggested possible indigestion and prompted me to recognise the need to reduce food intake and allow my digestive system time to rest. I quickly grabbed a sweet hawthorn snack to soothe my discomfort. When I was a child, it was one of my favourite treats from my grandmother, the balance of sweetness with a hint of sourness made it irresistibly addictive.
Did you know that hawthorn, a traditional Chinese herb, is commonly used to support digestion? In Traditional Chinese Medicine, hawthorn is believed to help reduce food stagnation, particularly from rich or heavy foods, and to promote the smooth movement of digestion. Avoid excessive intake: Hawthorn is sour, and consuming too much may damage the Spleen and Stomach.
Today, I’d like to introduce several herbal teas with Hawthorn (Shan Zha) (2, 3,4), which in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is known for promoting digestion, moving stagnant food, supporting spleen and stomach function, and aiding blood circulation. These teas can also assist lipid metabolism, help resolve phlegm, and gently clear mild internal heat.
1) Shan Zha Chenpi Tea (4) (for 2 people)
Ingredients:
- 20g dried Shan Zha (Hawthorn)
- 6g Chen Pi (Dried Tangerine Peel)
TCM Function:
- Shan Zha: transforms food stagnation, promotes digestion, moves blood
- Chen Pi: regulates Qi, strengthens the spleen, resolves dampness and phlegm
Preparation:
- Rinse ingredients.
- Add to 700–800ml boiling water, simmer for 10–15 minutes.
- Strain and serve warm.
2) Ju Hua (5), Chen Pi and Shan Zha Tea (for 2 people)
Ingredients:
- 10g Ju Hua (Chrysanthemum)
- 6g Chen Pi
- 20g dried Shan Zha
TCM Function:
- Ju Hua: clears Liver heat, calms eyes, relieves mild internal heat
- Chen Pi: regulates Qi, improves digestion, resolves phlegm
- Shan Zha: promotes digestion, moves blood, reduces food stagnation
Preparation:
- Rinse herbs.
- Pour 700–800ml boiling water over them, leave it for 10 minutes.
- Strain and enjoy.
3) Green Tea Hawthorn Tea (for 2 people)
Ingredients:
- 10g Green Tea
- 20g dried Shan Zha
TCM Function:
- Green Tea: clears mild heat, supports digestion, boosts metabolism
- Shan Zha: aids digestion, helps regulate lipid metabolism
Preparation:
- Rinse green tea and hawthorn slices.
- Add to 600–700ml hot water, leave it for 3–5 minutes.
- Strain and sip slowly.
Whether you want to ease bloating, support digestion, or enjoy a warm, comforting drink, these hawthorn teas provide a gentle, natural way to care for your digestive system. Sip them mindfully to restore balance after the holidays and start 2026 feeling lighter and healthier.
References:
1) Effects on gut microbiota and fermentation:
https://www.mdpi.com/2227-9717/10/10/1922
2) In vitro digestive enzyme interactions:
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2405844022023465
3) Chemistry, stability and health effects of phenolic compounds in cultivated hawthorn (Crataegus pinnatifida var. major): a review
https://academic.oup.com/fqs/article/doi/10.1093/fqsafe/fyad067/7486237
4) Citri Reticulatae Pericarpium (Chenpi): Botany, ethnopharmacology, phytochemistry and pharmacology of a frequently used traditional Chinese medicine:
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0378874117329367
5) Diosmetin protects against retinal injury via reduction of DNA damage and oxidative stress:
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5615423/
6) The effects of green tea on lipid metabolism and its potential applications for obesity and related metabolic disorders:
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1871402119301249
