You’ve seen them on social media. Fitness models in yoga pants and crop tops promoting one of many brands of “fit tea” or “skinny tea” that promise a flatter stomach and slimmer thighs in just 14 days. You may lose a little water weight and your stomach may even look a little flatter because, well, it’s empty, but drinking these detox teas could damage your health. Most detox tea contains an ingredient called “senna,” which irritates the lining of the bowels and has a laxative effect. Senna is a natural ingredient that is fine to use on occasion but, when used on a regular basis, like, say, everyday for 14 days, it can cause diarrhea, dehydration and even inhibit nutrient absorption.
But if the idea of sipping your way to a slimmer figure still appeals to you, you’re in luck. There are some teas that contain natural ingredients that can reduce bloating, support your liver and kidney function and help your body detox in a gentle, natural way.
Traditional Medicinals EveryDay Detox Tea
Inspired by traditional Chinese medicine, the EveryDay Detox Tea from Traditional Medicinals contains a blend of dandelion root and chicory root, which stimulate and support your liver, and schisandra berries, which also promote liver function and lend a unique taste that is sweet, sour, salty, bitter and spicy. Licorice, ginger and star anise round out the flavour in this tea.
The stars of this Organic Detox Tea from Pukka are anise seed and fennel, which promote liver and kidney function, support digestion and reduce bloating. Cardamom, licorice, lemon peel and lemongrass bring a bold, bright flavour to the tea. Lemon peel also supports liver and kidney function and increases urination to promote cleansing.
Rishi Organic White Ginseng Detox Tea
Infusing traditional Chinese medicine with modern flavours, the Organic White Ginseng Detox Tea from Rishi contains schisandra berries, white ginseng, burdock root, dandelion root, licorice root, rosehips, peppermint and raspberries. This combination of berries, roots and herbs will not only satisfy your cravings but will support liver and kidney cleansing.
With a warm rooibos base, the Cleanse & Detox Tea from Gaia contains fennel, licorice, lemon peel, peppermint and star anise but the star ingredients of this tea are burdock root and artichoke, which support liver function and digestion. Artichoke even increases urination to promote cleansing and increases bile production to support fat digestion and metabolism.
