What should one drink for excessive liver fire?

Aug 10, 2022 Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. He Haochen
Introduction
Patients with excessive liver fire can alleviate symptoms by drinking green tea, cassia seed tea, prunella vulgaris decoction, or plantain herb decoction. Green tea is cold in nature and bitter in taste, effectively clearing heat and reducing internal fire; thus, it helps clear liver fire. Cassia seeds are slightly cold and bitter, exerting effects of clearing heat and soothing the liver in patients with excessive liver fire. They can be brewed directly for consumption; however, cassia seeds also possess laxative properties—therefore, if diarrhea occurs after ingestion, administration should be discontinued immediately.

As living standards continue to improve, people are increasingly burdened by life’s pressures. Consequently, many individuals gradually develop various diseases and experience symptoms that affect their mood and daily functioning—such as excessive liver fire (“Gan Huo”). So, what should one drink to alleviate excessive liver fire?

What to Drink for Excessive Liver Fire

Individuals with excessive liver fire may benefit from drinking green tea, cassia seed tea, prunella vulgaris decoction, or plantain herb decoction. Green tea is cold in nature and bitter in taste, effectively clearing heat and reducing internal fire; thus, it helps clear liver fire. Cassia seeds are slightly cold and bitter, exerting a heat-clearing and liver-soothing effect. They can be brewed directly; however, note that cassia seeds have a mild laxative effect—discontinue use immediately if diarrhea occurs. Prunella vulgaris clears liver heat, improves vision, and dispels fire; consuming it as a decoction helps relieve dizziness, headache, eye swelling, and pain associated with excessive liver fire.

Plantain herb clears heat, benefits the liver, helps prevent and manage liver disorders, and alleviates heat accumulation in the liver and gallbladder. Simmer an appropriate amount of plantain herb in water until boiling; the resulting decoction clears heat and cools the blood—ideal for those with excessive liver fire. Bitter melon has a bitter-sweet, cooling taste and excels at clearing heat and relieving irritability. Consuming raw bitter melon helps clear heat, reduce fire, relieve summer-heat, and ease emotional distress. For individuals with excessive liver fire, incorporating bitter melon salad into the diet is recommended. Celery calms the liver, clears heat, stops bleeding, and relieves irritability and swelling.

In daily life, maintain regular, balanced meals—avoid spicy, stimulating foods and overeating, and refrain from staying up late. We hope this information proves helpful.