Researchers tested a traditional Chinese herbal tea called Xiasangju to see if it could help treat a serious liver condition where fat builds up in liver cells. Using mice fed a special diet that causes this liver disease, scientists found that the tea reduced fat buildup, inflammation, and damage to the liver. The tea contains natural compounds that appear to work together to protect the liver and reduce scarring. While these results are promising, more research in humans is needed before doctors can recommend it as a treatment.

The Quick Take

  • What they studied: Whether a traditional Chinese herbal tea called Xiasangju could help treat metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH), a condition where fat builds up in the liver and causes damage
  • Who participated: Laboratory mice were given a special diet that causes fatty liver disease. The researchers then treated some mice with Xiasangju tea to see if it would help
  • Key finding: Mice that received Xiasangju showed significant improvements in liver health, including less fat buildup, reduced inflammation, less oxidative stress (cellular damage), and slower scarring compared to untreated mice
  • What it means for you: This research suggests Xiasangju may be helpful for fatty liver disease, but these are early-stage findings from animal studies. People with liver disease should not self-treat with this tea without talking to their doctor first, as human studies are still needed

The Research Details

Scientists conducted a comprehensive study using mice to test whether Xiasangju tea could treat fatty liver disease. First, they identified 74 different natural compounds in the tea using advanced chemical analysis technology. Then they created fatty liver disease in mice by feeding them a special diet lacking certain nutrients and high in fat. Some mice received Xiasangju treatment while others served as controls. The researchers examined the mice’s livers using multiple advanced techniques including metabolomics (studying chemical changes in cells) and transcriptomics (studying which genes turn on and off). They also used molecular docking, a computer method to predict how the tea’s compounds interact with disease-causing proteins.

This multi-layered approach is important because it doesn’t just show whether the tea works—it reveals how it works. By examining chemical changes, gene activity, and protein interactions, researchers can understand the specific mechanisms. This helps determine if the tea’s benefits are real and reproducible, and provides a foundation for developing better treatments in the future

This study used rigorous scientific methods including advanced technology to identify compounds, computer modeling to predict effects, and multiple validation techniques. However, it was conducted only in mice, not humans. Animal studies often don’t translate directly to humans, so results should be considered preliminary. The study appears well-designed for exploring mechanisms, but human clinical trials would be needed to confirm safety and effectiveness in people

What the Results Show

Xiasangju treatment significantly reduced liver damage in mice with fatty liver disease. The tea reduced the amount of fat stored in liver cells, decreased inflammation (the body’s harmful immune response), and reduced oxidative stress (cellular damage from unstable molecules). The treatment also slowed the development of liver fibrosis, which is scarring that occurs when the liver is repeatedly damaged. These improvements were observed across multiple measures of liver health, suggesting the tea has broad protective effects on the liver.

The research revealed that Xiasangju works by affecting multiple metabolic pathways—essentially the chemical processes that keep cells functioning. The tea influenced purine metabolism (how cells break down certain compounds), arginine production (an important amino acid), vitamin A metabolism, and energy production pathways. At the genetic level, the tea reduced the activity of genes involved in making cholesterol, causing inflammation, and creating scar tissue. These findings suggest the tea’s benefits come from its ability to restore normal metabolic balance rather than targeting a single problem

Previous research had shown that Xiasangju has antioxidant (protects cells from damage), anti-inflammatory (reduces swelling and immune overreaction), and metabolic-regulating properties. This study builds on that knowledge by demonstrating these properties specifically help with fatty liver disease and by revealing the detailed mechanisms involved. The findings align with traditional uses of the tea in Chinese medicine while providing modern scientific validation of how it works

The study was conducted only in mice, which have different biology than humans and may not respond the same way. The researchers did not specify the exact number of mice used or provide detailed statistical analysis in the abstract. The study examined short-term effects and didn’t test long-term safety or optimal dosing. Additionally, the research was conducted in a laboratory setting with a specific type of induced liver disease, which may not perfectly match how the disease develops naturally in humans. No human clinical trials were conducted

The Bottom Line

Based on this research alone, Xiasangju cannot be recommended as a treatment for fatty liver disease. The findings are promising and suggest further research is warranted, but human clinical trials are essential before medical recommendations can be made. People with fatty liver disease should continue following their doctor’s advice regarding diet, exercise, and any prescribed medications. If interested in traditional remedies, discuss options with a healthcare provider who can monitor liver health

People with fatty liver disease or metabolic dysfunction should be aware of this research as it may lead to future treatments. Healthcare providers treating liver disease should monitor this research area. However, people should not attempt to self-treat with Xiasangju based on these preliminary findings. Those with existing liver disease, taking medications, or pregnant should especially avoid self-treatment without medical supervision

This is early-stage research. If human trials begin soon, it could take 3-5 years or more to determine if Xiasangju is safe and effective in people. Even if successful in trials, regulatory approval and availability as a medical treatment could take several additional years. Realistic expectations are that this research contributes to understanding fatty liver disease but does not provide an immediate treatment option

Want to Apply This Research?

  • Users with fatty liver disease could track liver health markers if they have regular blood tests (ALT, AST, and bilirubin levels), along with weight, waist circumference, and dietary adherence to a liver-healthy diet. This creates a baseline for discussing progress with their doctor
  • Rather than using unproven herbal remedies, users should focus on evidence-based lifestyle changes: reducing refined carbohydrates and added sugars, limiting alcohol, increasing physical activity to 150 minutes weekly, and maintaining a healthy weight. The app could help track these behaviors and their correlation with health markers
  • Set reminders for regular doctor visits and blood work to monitor liver enzymes and metabolic markers. Track dietary choices, exercise, and weight trends over months to see if lifestyle changes improve liver health. Share this data with healthcare providers to guide treatment decisions

This research describes laboratory findings in mice and does not constitute medical advice or approval for human use. Xiasangju has not been clinically tested in humans for treating fatty liver disease and is not approved as a medical treatment. People with fatty liver disease should consult their healthcare provider before using any herbal supplements, as some may interact with medications or worsen liver function. This summary is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical diagnosis or treatment. Always discuss new treatments with your doctor before starting them.