Experts Warn Herbal Detox Teas Can Harm the Liver, Especially in People with Pre-Existing Conditions

Mumbai | December 26 As the popularity of herbal detox teas continues to surge, medical experts are cautioning that these so-called “natural” remedies can pose serious risks, particularly for individuals with existing liver conditions. Despite claims of cleansing the body and boosting health, these teas can overload and damage the liver, doctors say. Dr Sudeep Khanna, senior consultant of gastroenterology at Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals, explained that the liver is already a highly efficient organ for detoxification. He said many people turn to herbal teas hoping for a quick cleanse, but concentrated herbal compounds can be harmful. For patients with conditions such as fatty liver, hepatitis, or cirrhosis, consuming these teas can trigger rapid organ failure. “If you have a liver condition, stick to prescribed care; your liver already detoxifies your body—it doesn’t need a tea to do it for you,” Dr Khanna emphasized. According to Dr Khanna, herbal teas can harm the liver in several ways. Toxic compounds such as pyrrolizidine alkaloids in comfrey and pulegone in pennyroyal can directly damage liver cells, cause necrosis, or block liver blood vessels. High-dose extracts, like concentrated green tea blends containing over 800 mg of EGCG, may raise liver enzymes and trigger jaundice. Unregulated multi-herb mixtures combining senna, dandelion, and nettle have been linked to cholestatic hepatitis, where bile flow is blocked. Laxative and diuretic effects of some teas can further strain the liver by dehydrating the body and disrupting electrolytes. Most importantly, there is no evidence that these teas repair liver damage; the effective treatment relies on medication, diet, and medical supervision. Rajeswari V Shetty, head of nutrition and dietetics at SL Raheja Hospital, Mumbai, highlighted that the perception of herbal products as safe is misleading. “These are plant infusions, some highly concentrated or contaminated with heavy metals or unlabeled ingredients,” she said. She advised that individuals with liver problems avoid teas containing green tea extracts, ashwagandha, kava, aloe vera, senna, or high doses of chamomile due to their potential hepatotoxic effects. Experts stress that herbal detox teas should not replace clinical care or prescribed treatment. Both Dr Khanna and Rajeswari advised consulting healthcare professionals before starting any herbal regimen, especially for those already on medications or with elevated liver enzymes. They cautioned that even products marketed as “natural” can have severe consequences for vulnerable patients. Medical professionals agree that liver health depends on proper diet, regular check-ups, and adherence to prescribed treatments rather than trendy herbal products. Early detection and careful management are crucial to prevent liver damage and ensure long-term health. Experts Warn Herbal Detox Teas Can Harm the Liver, Especially in People with Pre-Existing Conditions Herbal detox teas have become a huge trend, promising quick cleansing and better health. But doctors are now warning that these so-called “natural” remedies can be harmful, especially for people with liver problems. The liver is already designed to detox the body, and concentrated herbal compounds can sometimes do more harm than good. Dr Sudeep Khanna, gastroenterologist at Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals, explained that patients with fatty liver, hepatitis, or cirrhosis are at high risk. “Herbal teas may contain hidden toxins or concentrated extracts that overwork the liver. For those with existing conditions, this can lead to severe damage or even organ failure,” he said. Toxic compounds like pyrrolizidine alkaloids in comfrey or pulegone in pennyroyal can directly harm liver cells, while high doses of green tea extracts may trigger jaundice and raise liver enzymes. Multi-herb blends including senna, dandelion, or nettle have also been linked to liver injury, and laxative or diuretic effects can dehydrate the body and further strain the organ. Rajeswari V Shetty, nutritionist at SL Raheja Hospital, added that many herbal teas bypass safety checks. “Even natural products can be unsafe. Some may be contaminated with heavy metals or have unlabeled ingredients,” she said. She advised avoiding teas with strong green tea extracts, ashwagandha, kava, aloe vera, senna, or high doses of chamomile, especially for people with liver concerns. Both experts emphasized that there is no evidence herbal detox teas repair liver damage. Proper care through diet, prescribed medications, and medical supervision is the only safe way to support liver health. Patients should always consult healthcare professionals before trying supplements, particularly if they have liver issues or are on long-term medication.