**Taos Tea: Altitude Air Stealing Summer Livers?**

By Franklin Everett Shaw

November 8, 2025

The scent of piñon smoke hangs heavy in the Taos air, a comforting aroma that belies the subtle physiological challenges at play. Tourists, fresh off the plains, and even long-time residents can find themselves unexpectedly sidelined by the altitude, especially when indulging in the local favorite: Taos Tea. But fear not, there are proactive steps you can take to enjoy this regional treat without compromising your well-being, particularly your liver health.

Taos Tea, often a potent mix of whiskey, honey, lemon, and hot water, can be deceptively taxing, especially when combined with the already dehydrating effects of high altitude (Taos sits at nearly 7,000 feet). The liver, responsible for processing alcohol, works overtime, and the arid climate exacerbates dehydration, further hindering its function.

Hydration is King (and Queen) in Taos

Forget the “drink eight glasses of water a day” mantra. That’s generic and useless. In Taos, you need a strategic hydration plan.

• Electrolyte Focus: Plain water isn’t enough. The dry air pulls moisture from your body, depleting electrolytes. Carry electrolyte tablets or powder (Nuun, Liquid I.V., or even a pinch of sea salt in your water) and consume them consistently throughout the day, not just when you feel thirsty. Aim for one serving every 2-3 hours.
• Pre-emptive Hydration: Don’t wait until you’re parched. Start hydrating before you even think about Taos Tea. A large glass of water with electrolytes an hour beforehand is crucial.
• Hydration-Rich Foods: Supplement your water intake with foods high in water content. Cucumbers, watermelon (if you can find a good one locally), and even soups are excellent choices. Look for locally grown produce at the Taos Farmers Market for the freshest options.
• Avoid Sugary Drinks: Sodas and sugary juices will only dehydrate you further. They create a diuretic effect, pulling water from your cells.

Liver-Loving Foods Readily Available in Northern New Mexico

Northern New Mexico offers a surprising array of foods that can support liver detoxification. Incorporate these into your diet, especially during the summer months when Taos Tea consumption tends to increase.

• Artichokes: While not native, artichokes are often available at local grocery stores like Cid’s Food Market. They contain cynarin, which stimulates bile production, aiding in digestion and liver detoxification. Steam them and enjoy with a squeeze of lemon.
• Garlic and Onions: These pungent vegetables are rich in sulfur compounds, which are essential for liver detoxification. Use them liberally in your cooking. Consider adding roasted garlic to your Taos Tea for a unique (and potentially beneficial) twist.
• Leafy Greens: Kale, spinach, and chard are packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that support liver health. Look for locally grown greens at the Taos Farmers Market. Add them to salads, smoothies, or sauté them with garlic and olive oil.
• Beets: Beets contain betaine, a compound that helps protect the liver from damage. Roast them, juice them, or add them to salads. The vibrant color is also a visual reminder of their health benefits.
• Dandelion Greens: Yes, those pesky weeds in your yard! Dandelion greens are a potent liver tonic. They can be bitter, so blanch them before adding them to salads or sautéing them. Be sure they are from an area that hasn’t been treated with pesticides.

Reimagining Taos Tea: Lighter, Liver-Friendly Variations

The traditional Taos Tea recipe, while comforting, can be a liver overload, especially at altitude. Here’s how to adapt it for optimal well-being:

• Reduce the Alcohol: This is the most obvious, but also the most crucial. Consider a “mocktail” version using non-alcoholic whiskey alternatives or simply omitting the whiskey altogether. The honey, lemon, and hot water still provide a soothing and flavorful experience.
• Herbal Infusions: Instead of relying solely on whiskey for flavor, experiment with herbal infusions. Chamomile, ginger, or even a touch of sage can add complexity and offer additional health benefits. Steep the herbs in hot water before adding the honey and lemon.
• Honey Alternatives: While honey is a natural sweetener, it still contains sugar, which can burden the liver. Consider using a small amount of stevia or monk fruit sweetener instead.
• Lemon Power: Lemon juice is a natural detoxifier. Increase the amount of lemon in your Taos Tea for an extra boost.
• Add Ginger: Fresh ginger is a powerful anti-inflammatory and can aid digestion. Grate a small amount of fresh ginger into your Taos Tea for added flavor and health benefits.

Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them

• Ignoring Altitude Sickness: Don’t dismiss symptoms like headache, fatigue, and nausea. These are signs that your body is struggling to adjust to the altitude. Rest, hydrate, and avoid alcohol until you feel better.
• Overdoing It on the First Day: Resist the urge to immediately dive into the Taos Tea scene. Give your body time to acclimatize before indulging.
• Relying on Coffee for Energy: Coffee is a diuretic and can further dehydrate you. Limit your coffee intake and focus on hydration and nutrient-rich foods for sustained energy.
• Not Listening to Your Body: Pay attention to how you feel. If you experience any discomfort after consuming Taos Tea, adjust your recipe or reduce your intake.

A Real-World Scenario: The Taos Mesa Brewing Mother’s Day Music Festival

Imagine you’re attending the Taos Mesa Brewing Mother’s Day Music Festival. The sun is beating down, the music is pumping, and Taos Tea is flowing freely. This is a perfect storm for liver stress and dehydration.

• Before you go: Pre-hydrate with electrolytes and eat a liver-supporting meal (e.g., a salad with leafy greens, beets, and artichoke hearts).
• At the festival: Alternate between Taos Tea (a lighter, herbal-infused version) and electrolyte-rich water. Snack on hydrating foods like cucumber slices or watermelon.
• After the festival: Continue hydrating and eat a light, easily digestible meal. Consider taking a liver support supplement like milk thistle.

By implementing these strategies, residents and tourists alike can enjoy the unique cultural experience of Taos Tea without compromising their liver health. Remember, moderation, hydration, and a focus on liver-supporting foods are key to thriving in the high-altitude environment of Taos, New Mexico. Don’t let a delicious drink derail your well-being. Be proactive, be mindful, and enjoy all that Taos has to offer.