When we talk about herbs in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), chrysanthemum—also called ju hua in Chinese—always shows up on the list of well-loved flowers. While most people know chrysanthemums as a beautiful plant with bright petals, in the world of Chinese herbal medicine, this flower has much more meaning. For hundreds of years, chrysanthemum tea and herbal remedies made from its blossoms have been trusted by Chinese families to cool the body, soothe the eyes, and even prevent certain illnesses.
The Cultural and Historical Background of Chrysanthemum
Chrysanthemum has been valued in China for over 2,000 years. Ancient medical texts such as the Shennong Bencao Jing (The Divine Farmer's Classic of Materia Medica) mention chrysanthemum as a herb with cooling energy. According to TCM theory, foods and herbs can either warm or cool the body. Chrysanthemum is classified as cooling, meaning it helps clear heat and toxins.
In Chinese culture, chrysanthemums also symbolize longevity and endurance. They bloom in late autumn, when most flowers have already faded, and this resilience made them a favorite subject of poetry and painting. This cultural respect carried over into medicine, where chrysanthemum was treasured not only for beauty but also for healing.
Types of Chrysanthemum Used in TCM
Not all chrysanthemums are used as medicine. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, two main types are most popular:
1. Hang Ju (Hangzhou Chrysanthemum)
● Grown in Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province.
● Light in color, often white or pale yellow.
● Known for its gentle and calming effects.
2. Gong Ju (Tribute Chrysanthemum)
● Originally a gift for emperors.
● Grown in Huangshan, Anhui Province.
● Slightly stronger in taste, believed to be better for cooling the heat in the liver and eyes.
Both types are used in herbal formulas and teas, but their subtle differences allow practitioners to choose the right one depending on a patient's condition.
The Role of Chrysanthemum in Traditional Chinese Medicine
Cooling the Body: In TCM, heat can mean fever, inflammation, sore throat, or irritability. Chrysanthemum tea is a classic drink to cool the body down, especially during hot summer days or when someone has eaten too much fried or spicy food.
Supporting Eye Health: One of the most famous uses of chrysanthemum is for the eyes. In ancient times, people who worked by candlelight or scholars who studied long hours often suffered from eye strain. Chrysanthemum tea was recommended to ease dry eyes, redness, and blurry vision. Today, with so much screen time from computers and smartphones, this traditional use feels more relevant than ever.
Clearing the Liver: In Chinese medicine, the liver is linked not only to detoxification but also to emotional balance and eye function. Chrysanthemum is thought to help the liver function smoothly, preventing stagnation that might cause headaches, dizziness, or mood swings.
Supporting Immunity: Although chrysanthemum is mainly known for cooling, modern herbal research suggests that it also contains antioxidants and antibacterial properties. This means it may help the body fight off infections and improve overall wellness.
Chrysanthemum Tea
If you have ever visited a Chinese household, chances are you have been offered chrysanthemum tea. The preparation is simple: dried flowers are placed in hot water, sometimes with rock sugar, goji berries, or honeysuckle.
Basic recipe: 5–10 dried chrysanthemum flowers in a teapot, steeped in hot (not boiling) water for 3–5 minutes.
With goji berries: Adding goji berries makes it a great eye-nourishing tea.
With honeysuckle: Known for boosting the cooling effect and easing sore throats.
Chrysanthemum tea is caffeine-free, making it a great alternative to coffee or black tea. It can be enjoyed throughout the day, whether at work, during study sessions, or before bedtime.
Modern Applications of Chrysanthemum
People looking for natural remedies often choose chrysanthemum for its gentle and safe effects. You can now find chrysanthemum tea bags in supermarkets, herbal supplements online, and even skincare products that highlight its antioxidant content.
Some herbal supplement companies promote chrysanthemum as part of a detox tea blend, combining it with green tea, dandelion, or licorice root. Others market it for eye health support, especially targeting people who use digital devices.
Chrysanthemum is also used by manufacturers of traditional herbal extracts, capsules, and powders. Some suppliers in China export dried chrysanthemum flowers in bulk, catering to tea shops, wellness brands, and TCM practitioners abroad.
Chrysanthemum in Combination with Other Herbs
In TCM, herbs are rarely used alone. Chrysanthemum often works with other herbs in formulas:
● Ju Hua + Gou Qi Zi (Goji berries): Classic for nourishing the eyes.
● Ju Hua + Lian Qiao (Forsythia): To clear heat and help with a sore throat.
● Ju Hua + Sang Ye (Mulberry leaf): To calm coughs and reduce fever.
These combinations show how versatile the chrysanthemum is, fitting into many herbal traditions.
Buying and Storing Chrysanthemum
When buying chrysanthemum flowers for tea, quality matters. Look for blossoms that are whole, clean, and bright in color. Pale yellow or white flowers are usually considered higher grade. Avoid flowers that look dull, broken, or dusty.
Chrysanthemum can be purchased from:
● Traditional Chinese medicine shops
● Tea markets
● Online herbal suppliers
● Health food stores
To store dried chrysanthemum, keep it in an airtight container away from moisture and sunlight. This helps preserve its flavor and medicinal value.
Precautions and Considerations
While chrysanthemum tea is safe for most people, there are a few things to keep in mind:
● People with allergies to daisies or ragweed should avoid it.
● Drinking too much can sometimes cause a drop in blood pressure.
● In TCM, people with very cold body constitutions may not benefit from frequent use.
As with any herbal product, it is best to enjoy chrysanthemum in moderation and consult a qualified practitioner if using it for specific health conditions.
Conclusion
Chrysanthemum in Traditional Chinese Medicine is more than just a flower. From cooling the body to soothing tired eyes, from ancient texts to modern wellness stores, chrysanthemum continues to play an important role in health and daily life.
For anyone curious about herbal remedies, trying a simple cup of chrysanthemum tea is a wonderful way to start.
Last but not least, it is important to consult a qualified practitioner if using it for specific health conditions.