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The Summer Tea Guide: How 3 Chinese Herbal Teas Support Weight Loss, Beauty, and Calm Naturally

The Summer Tea Guide: How 3 Chinese Herbal Teas Support Weight Loss, Beauty, and Calm Naturally

Jun 11th 2025

The Summer Tea Guide: How 3 Chinese Herbal Teas Support Weight Loss, Beauty, and Calm Naturally

In today’s fast-paced world, it's easy to reach for complicated solutions to support health and wellness. But Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) offers simple, powerful herbal teas that have stood the test of time. Right now, three ancient tea blends are making a modern comeback because they work beautifully with your body's natural rhythms: Hawthorn & Lotus Leaf Slimming Tea, Goji & Chrysanthemum Beauty Tea, and Licorice & He Huan Pi Calming Tea.

1. Hawthorn & Lotus Leaf Slimming Tea: TCM's Approach to Weight Loss and Digestion

Why This Combination Of Herbs Works For Weight Loss and Digestion.

In TCM, weight gain, bloating, and sluggish digestion are often linked to two key imbalances: Food Stagnation and Dampness. When food sits in the stomach and intestines without being properly broken down, it creates stagnation, bloating, and eventually damp accumulation (which TCM views as retained fluids and unwanted weight).

  • Shan Zha (Hawthorn Fruit / 山楂)

    Primary Action: Moves food stagnation, especially from rich, heavy, fatty, and meaty foods.

    In TCM, Shan Zha is one of the premier herbs for addressing food stagnation (Shi Zhi)—a condition that occurs when the digestive system struggles to break down excessive, greasy, or protein-rich foods. This stagnation can lead to bloating, fullness, gas, and sluggish digestion. Shan Zha promotes the breakdown of these heavy foods by enhancing digestive enzyme activity and improving the flow of Qi in the Stomach and Spleen.

    Modern research shows that hawthorn contains flavonoids, triterpenoids, and procyanidins that may support cardiovascular health, improve lipid metabolism, and help lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels—making it not only a digestive herb but also a gentle metabolic supporter.

    He Ye (Lotus Leaf / 荷叶)

    Primary Action: Clears dampness, transforms phlegm, harmonizes the middle burner, and supports metabolism.

    In TCM, dampness is seen as a major contributor to weight gain, bloating, and fatigue. He Ye helps drain dampness, reduce excess internal moisture, and stimulate the Spleen to transform fluids more efficiently. This makes it excellent for cases of water retention and sluggish metabolism often seen in those who struggle with stubborn weight.

    He Ye also mildly clears summer heat and can help balance appetite during hot weather. Its modern applications include support for fat metabolism, reduction of cholesterol, and blood sugar balancing effects.

    Chen Pi (Aged Tangerine Peel / 陈皮)

    Primary Action: Regulates Qi, resolves dampness, relieves bloating and abdominal discomfort.

    When digestion is sluggish, Qi stagnates in the middle burner, leading to abdominal fullness, bloating, and distention. Chen Pi gently moves Qi, allowing digestive energy to circulate properly and prevent food from stagnating. It also dries excess dampness and supports the Spleen’s transforming function.

    In modern herbalism, Chen Pi is used for its mild anti-inflammatory, carminative, and digestive-regulating effects, often relieving symptoms of indigestion, belching, and mild nausea.

    Sheng Jiang (Fresh Ginger / 生姜)

    Primary Action: Warms the Stomach, disperses cold, prevents food stagnation from cold/raw foods.

    Cold and raw foods can weaken the digestive fire (Spleen Yang), leading to impaired digestion, gas, bloating, and loose stools. Sheng Jiang counteracts these effects by warming the Stomach, promoting better circulation in the middle burner, and enhancing the enzymatic breakdown of foods.

    Ginger's gingerols and shogaols have been studied for their anti-inflammatory, pro-digestive, and anti-nausea properties, making Sheng Jiang an excellent modern and traditional remedy for nausea, bloating, and motion sickness.

    Hong Zao (Red Dates / 红枣 / Jujube Fruit)

    Primary Action: Tonifies Spleen Qi, nourishes Blood, harmonizes formulas, and adds natural sweetness.

    In TCM, Hong Zao is known for its ability to strengthen the Spleen and Stomach, which are critical for digestion, nutrient absorption, and energy production. Weak Spleen Qi can lead to fatigue, poor appetite, and fluid accumulation.

    Red dates are also frequently added to formulas to harmonize harsher herbs, support Blood production (helpful for those who feel weak or fatigued during weight loss efforts), and make the tea more palatable.

    Modern studies have shown that jujube contains polysaccharides, flavonoids, and saponins with antioxidant, anti-fatigue, and immune-supporting effects.

    In Summary:

    This carefully balanced blend works not as a stimulant or crash diet tea, but as a digestive harmonizer that:

    • Unblocks stagnation

    • Supports proper nutrient absorption

    • Regulates fluids

    • Balances metabolism

    • Eases bloating

    • Nourishes the body while gently encouraging healthy weight

    When to Drink

    • Midday or after meals, when digestion is active.

    • Ideal as part of a light, balanced diet.

    Your Questions Answered

    • Is it a quick fix? No. It's designed to support digestion and metabolism gently over time.

    • Can I drink it daily? Yes, but not recommended during pregnancy without guidance.

    • Can I combine it with cold smoothies or raw diets? No. Cold, raw foods can counteract its warming digestive effects.

    2. Goji & Chrysanthemum Beauty Tea: Hydrate, Glow, and Protect Your Eyes

    Why This Combination Works for Hydration, and Benefiting The Eyes 

    In TCM, skin health and eye clarity are linked to Liver and Kidney Yin deficiency and internal heat. Excess screen time, dehydration, and stress can dry out the body's fluids, leading to dull skin and eye strain.

    Gou Qi Zi (Goji Berries / 枸杞子)

    Primary Action: Nourish Liver and Kidney Yin, support vision, hydrate tissues, and tonify Blood.

    In Traditional Chinese Medicine, the Liver governs the eyes, tendons, and smooth emotional flow, while the Kidney governs overall vitality, fluid balance, and reproductive health. Goji berries are one of TCM’s top herbs for nourishing both Liver and Kidney Yin, making them particularly effective for:

    • Eye strain (common with excess screen time, computer work, or aging)

    • Dry eyes and blurry vision

    • Dull, dry skin due to Yin or Blood deficiency

    • Fatigue and general low energy

    Goji berries are also believed to boost Jing (essence) — the body’s deep reserves — which supports healthy aging and reproductive vitality.

    Modern research highlights goji’s rich content of polysaccharides, carotenoids (like zeaxanthin), vitamins, and antioxidants that protect cells from oxidative damage, support immunity, and promote skin hydration.

    Ju Hua (Chrysanthemum Flowers / 菊花)

    Primary Action: Clears Liver heat, calms the eyes, reduces internal inflammation, and cools the body.

    In TCM, excessive heat in the Liver can rise up and affect the head and eyes, causing:

    • Red, dry, irritated, or painful eyes

    • Headaches

    • Irritability

    • Skin redness or breakouts

    Ju Hua gently clears heat, cools the system, and balances the Liver's function. Its ability to calm inflammation and clear wind-heat makes it a superb addition to any tea aimed at eye health and skin clarity.

    It’s also used to prevent tension headaches, particularly those tied to emotional stress or long hours at screens.

    Modern studies confirm that chrysanthemum has anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties, supporting cardiovascular health and reducing oxidative stress.

    Hong Zao (Red Dates / 红枣)

    Primary Action: Strengthens Qi, nourishes Blood, harmonizes formulas, and sweetens the blend naturally.

    Many people who experience Yin or Liver deficiency may also struggle with mild Qi and Blood deficiencies, which can lead to:

    • Pale complexion

    • Low energy

    • Lightheadedness

    • Poor circulation

    Red Dates help tonify Spleen Qi (improving digestion and energy), nourish Blood, and improve nutrient absorption from food and herbs. In herbal formulas, Hong Zao is also used to soften and balance stronger herbs, making the blend gentle and suitable for daily consumption.

    From a modern perspective, red dates contain antioxidants, polysaccharides, and vitamin C, supporting both the immune system and skin vitality.

    Long Yan Rou (Longan Fruit / 龙眼肉) — Optional

    Primary Action: Calms the spirit (Shen), nourishes Blood, and supports restful sleep.

    Though optional, Long Yan Rou can transform this tea into a more comprehensive tonic for:

    • Anxiety or mild emotional stress

    • Palpitations or restlessness

    • Insomnia or dream-disturbed sleep

    • Fatigue linked to Blood deficiency

    In TCM, nourishing Blood helps stabilize emotions and improve skin vibrancy, as the skin is seen as an outward reflection of Blood and Yin sufficiency.

    Modern data shows longan is rich in iron, vitamins, and polyphenols, contributing to its mild sedative, anti-aging, and immune-enhancing effects.

    In Summary:

    This tea works not just as a hydrating beverage but as a deeply nourishing tonic that:

    • Soothes dry, tired, and overworked eyes

    • Hydrates skin from within

    • Supports Liver and Kidney function

    • Promotes emotional balance and mild relaxation

    • Delivers gentle antioxidant protection

    When to Drink

    • Morning to mid-afternoon for hydration, eye support, and beauty benefits.

    • Can be enjoyed warm or iced; perfect as a daily tonic.

    Your Questions Answered

    • Will this help with dry skin and tired eyes? Yes, by nourishing Yin and fluids.

    • Is it safe for daily use? Yes, it's caffeine-free and gentle.

    • Can I refill the pot? Yes, you can re-steep the herbs 2–3 times.

    3. Licorice & He Huan Pi Calming Tea: Emotional Balance Without Sedation

    Why This Combination Supports Emotional Balance.

    Emotional stress, irritability, and mild anxiety in TCM often stem from Liver Qi stagnation and Heart Shen disturbances. These patterns leave people feeling tense, restless, or emotionally overwhelmed.

    Gan Cao (Licorice Root / 甘草)

    Primary Action: Harmonizes the formula, soothes tension, supports Spleen Qi, and nourishes all systems gently.

    In Traditional Chinese Medicine, Gan Cao is one of the most widely used herbs because it performs several essential functions:

    • Harmonizing: It balances stronger herbs, allowing formulas to work more gently and safely.

    • Spleen support: The Spleen governs digestion, nutrient absorption, and emotional stability in TCM. Supporting the Spleen improves mental clarity and reduces worry.

    • Tension relief: Gan Cao has a mild muscle-relaxing effect, easing physical tension that often accompanies emotional stress.

    • Heart calming: By nourishing Qi and fluids, it helps stabilize the Shen (spirit), gently reducing anxiety, restlessness, or palpitations.

    Modern research shows that licorice contains glycyrrhizin, flavonoids, and polysaccharides, which contribute to its anti-inflammatory, adaptogenic, and cortisol-modulating effects. It may help buffer the body's stress response over time.

    He Huan Pi (Silktree Bark / 合欢皮)

    Primary Action: Soothes Liver Qi, lifts mood, calms emotional constraint, and promotes emotional resilience.

    Known in TCM as “the happiness bark,” He Huan Pi is highly regarded for treating:

    • Emotional stagnation: Sadness, grief, irritability, and anxiety caused by stuck Liver Qi.

    • Heart and Liver imbalance: Promoting emotional openness and flexibility.

    • Restless sleep: Mild insomnia or dream-disturbed sleep from emotional upset.

    In TCM, unprocessed emotions are viewed as internal stagnations that affect both physical and mental health. He Huan Pi moves constrained Qi, allowing emotions to flow naturally and promoting a sense of calm, uplifted mood.

    Modern studies suggest He Huan Pi may have anxiolytic (anti-anxiety), anti-depressive, and neuroprotective effects, supporting both mood balance and cognitive health.

    Da Zao (Red Dates / 大枣)

    Primary Action: Nourishes Heart and Spleen Qi, supports Blood production, calms the Shen (spirit), and adds natural sweetness.

    In this formula, Da Zao plays a critical role in stabilizing emotional balance by:

    • Strengthening the Spleen: Supporting energy and digestion, which helps the mind feel more grounded.

    • Nourishing Blood: Blood deficiency can contribute to anxiety, restlessness, or palpitations.

    • Calming Shen: Stabilizes the spirit for better sleep and emotional stability.

    • Harmonizing: Smooths the action of the formula and protects the digestion from any drying effects.

    Modern research highlights Da Zao’s immune-enhancing, antioxidant, and adaptogenic properties, supporting overall vitality while helping the body recover from stress.

    Bai Zi Ren (Biota Seed / 柏子仁) — Optional

    Primary Action: Nourishes Heart Yin, calms the Shen, moistens the intestines, and promotes restful sleep.

    Bai Zi Ren strengthens this calming formula by:

    • Deepening sedation gently: It helps those who have difficulty falling asleep or experience light, broken sleep.

    • Moistening: It adds an internal moistening quality, especially helpful for individuals who experience dryness due to anxiety or aging.

    • Heart Yin and Shen support: When Heart Yin is depleted, it leads to restlessness, vivid dreams, or emotional sensitivity. Bai Zi Ren replenishes this deficiency.

    Modern studies have shown Bai Zi Ren contains essential oils, fatty acids, and lignans that may have mild sedative, anxiolytic, and anti-inflammatory effects.

    In Summary:

    This tea works as a gentle nervous system tonic that:

    • Calms the spirit (Shen) without sedation

    • Helps balance mood swings, irritability, or emotional overwhelm

    • Supports deep relaxation and emotional resilience

    • Nourishes Qi, Blood, and Yin for long-term stress recovery

    • Provides adaptogenic support for modern burnout

    When to Drink

    • Late afternoon or evening to unwind after work.

    • Can also be used before meditation or bedtime for relaxation.

    Your Questions Answered

    • Will it make me sleepy? No, it relaxes without sedation.

    • Can I drink it daily? Yes, it's safe for ongoing use.

    • Can it be combined with journaling or meditation? Absolutely, it enhances calm practices.

    The Bottom Line: Ancient Teas for Modern Wellness

    Unlike trendy supplements or crash diets, these Traditional Chinese Medicine teas are designed to support your body's natural ability to find balance. They work by gently addressing the underlying patterns TCM recognizes—whether it’s digestive sluggishness, fluid imbalance, emotional constraint, or Yin deficiency.

    By incorporating these teas into your daily routine:

    • You help your digestion work more efficiently.

    • You nourish your skin, eyes, and fluids during hot, dry months.

    • You create a calming ritual to release daily stress.

    These teas aren’t fads—they’re timeless. And they offer real, sustainable support for those seeking gentle, natural health solutions.

    Ready to create your own summer tea ritual? Browse our full selection of Chinese herbs and tea bundles today and experience the power of ancient wisdom, one sip at a time.

    References 

    Hawthorn & Lotus Leaf Tea (Weight + Digestion Focus)

     Goji & Chrysanthemum Tea (Hydration, Skin & Eye Support)

     Licorice & He Huan Pi Tea (Emotional Balance & Calm)

    ✅ Summary Table

    Tea Blend Evidence Key Benefits
    Hawthorn & Lotus Cell & animal studies show fat reduction, improved lipid metabolism Fat breakdown, cholesterol control, metabolic support
    Goji & Chrysanthemum Human & animal studies demonstrate eye relief, antioxidant support Eye fatigue relief, antioxidants, hydration
    Licorice & He Huan Pi Research on stress modulation and mood enhancement Anxiety relief, mood support, gentle calm

    How We Use These Teas

    • Drink 1–2 times daily, following usage tips for each blend.

    • They're designed for supportive use, not as medical treatments.

    • Always consult a professional if you're pregnant, taking medication, or managing conditions like diabetes, hypertension, or psychiatric disorders.

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