Sipping detox tea may help to nourish your liver (an organ that aids in the elimination of toxins from the body) and support your body in the cleansing process, say some natural health proponents. More recently, celebrities have been touting their benefits for weight loss, quitting smoking, and other concerns. While there's very limited research on whether these herbal teas can support your efforts, here’s a look at five herbs commonly found in detox tea.

1) Burdock
A plant root that is sometimes eaten as food, burdock may help to protect liver cells from alcohol- and acetaminophen-related damage and "purify blood". Rich in inulin and sesquiterpene lactones, preliminary studies with animals suggest that the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity of burdock may help to protect the liver.

2) Milk Thistle
With seeds rich in an antioxidant known as silymarin, milk thistle has been found to boost liver function and shield the liver from the toxic effects of certain substances (such as alcohol and acetaminophen). There's also some evidence that milk thistle may promote regeneration of liver cells. Find out more about the benefits of milk thistle.

3) Artichoke
Laboratory research shows that artichoke contains constituents such as cynarin, luteolin, and chlorogenic acid, antioxidant substances shown to increase the flow of bile. Often touted for its toxin-fighting effects, artichoke is also lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels. Read more about artichoke.

4) Senna
After the overindulgence, some people turn to senna tea to help cleanse their system and stimulate weight loss. A natural product typically made from the leaves of the senna plant, senna tea is also widely used as a constipation remedy.

Senna contains compounds called anthraquinones, which are powerful laxatives. Although a number of studies suggest that senna may help alleviate constipation, there is currently a lack of scientific evidence to support any health-related claim for senna tea. What's more, there's some concern that excessive intake of senna may lead to diarrhea and serious health problems (including potassium depletion and electrolyte abnormalities, heart function disorders and liver damage).

5) Dandelion
Some research suggests that dandelion may stimulate the flow of bile, a substance that helps transport toxins away from the liver to be excreted by the body. In addition, tests on animals indicate that dandelion may guard against liver damage induced by environmental toxins. Dandelion is also used for intestinal bloating and gas, upset stomach, and as a laxative to increase bowel movements. Dandelion greens are eaten in salad, and the roasted root is sometimes used as a coffee substitute.