Latin name: Chrysanthemum morifolium
Chinese name: ju hua
What is Chrysanthemum?
Chrysanthemums are Japan’s national flower and have been grown since the fifteenth century BC in China for use as a medicinal herb. Chrysanthemum flowers are used to make a tea, which is very popular in East Asia. Made from dried chrysanthemum flowers, the tea is transparent and ranges from pale to bright yellow in color, with a subtle aroma. In the Chinese tradition, once a pot of chrysanthemum tea has been drunk, more hot water is added to the flowers in the pot and this process is often repeated several times. Each pot following the first will be slightly less strong.
What are the health benefits of Chrysanthemum?
Chrysanthemum leaves and flowers, as previously mentioned, are often made into a tea, which is cooling in nature; the tea is consumed to cool one down in the heat of summer or from the heat of a fever. It is known to relieve a headache, clear and soothe dry and irritated eyes, improve blurred vision, and minimize excessive tearing. It is also used to clear cold and flu symptoms, as well as prevent sore throats. It is used as a drink and a compress to reduce inflammation, varicose veins, and promote circulatory health in the prevention of arterial plaque buildup. One can often find chrysanthemum in combination with other herbs in weight loss formulas.
How do I prepare Chrysanthemum to get the health benefits?
To prepare the tea, steep dried chrysanthemum flowers in very hot—but not boiling—water in a teapot or cup.
Where can I find Chrysanthemum?
You can buy chrysanthemum leaves and flowers for tea at Asian supermarkets and traditional Chinese medicine herbal pharmacies.
You can find this herb combined with other herbs in the Traditions of Tao formulas:
Allergy Tamer, which provides temporary relief from nasal congestion, sneezing, itchiness, and watery eyes.
Calmfort/Sleeping, which calms the spirit, alleviates insomnia, and increases the body’s ability to cope with stress.
Internal Cleanse, which helps the liver cleanse the body of toxins, balances the nervous system, and relaxes the mind.
Internal Cleanse Tea, which supports cleansing and detoxification of the body.
Summer Tea, which is helpful for replenishing energy and fluid drained by the summer heat.
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