Chrysanthemum Flower
Chrysanthemum morifolium
菊花
Pinyin: Jú Huā
Plant Family
Asteraceae
Part Used
Flower head
Origin
Hangzhou, Zhejiang, Anhui, Henan provinces of China
Safety Level
Safe
Overview
Chrysanthemum is one of the most beloved flowers in Chinese culture and medicine. The white and yellow varieties are both used medicinally, with white chrysanthemum (Bai Ju Hua) being more cooling and better for the eyes. Hangzhou White Chrysanthemum (Hang Bai Ju) and Tribute Chrysanthemum (Gong Ju) from Huangshan are the most famous varieties.
Traditional Chinese Medicine Properties
Nature (四气)
cool
Flavors (五味)
sweet, bitter
Meridians (归经)
lung, liver
Health Benefits
Traditional Uses
- Clears wind-heat - for early stage colds with fever and headache
- Clears liver heat and brightens the eyes
- Calms the liver and extinguishes wind (for dizziness, hypertension)
- Detoxifies and disperses swelling (wild chrysanthemum)
- Reduces redness and itching of the eyes
Active Constituents
The key compounds responsible for this herb's therapeutic effects:
Usage & Dosage
How to Use
Most commonly steeped as a tea, alone or combined with other herbs. Can also be used in eye compresses, pillow stuffing, or added to soups and dishes.
Suggested Dosage
Tea: 5-10g (about 5-15 flowers) steeped in hot water for 3-5 min. Decoction: 9-15g. External: strong decoction as eye wash or compress.
Quality & Storage
Harvest Season
Late autumn, when flowers are fully open. Picked by hand on dry, sunny days and dried in shade.
Quality Indicators
White chrysanthemum: creamy white color, whole flower heads, fragrant aroma. Yellow chrysanthemum: bright yellow color. Hang Bai Ju (Hangzhou white) is the most famous. The flowers should be intact and not crumbly.
Storage
Store in airtight container in cool, dry place, protected from light. Can be stored for 1-2 years.
Safety Information
Contraindications
Spleen deficiency with loose stools or coldnessYang deficiency conditionsAllergy to ragweed or other Asteraceae plantsNot for long-term daily use by those with cold constitutions
Possible Side Effects
- Generally very safe when used as tea
- Allergic reaction (rare, in those with Asteraceae allergies)
- Mild digestive upset in sensitive individuals
Drug Interactions
- Blood pressure medications (may enhance lowering)
- Sedatives (mild enhancement)
- Generally very low interaction risk
Note: Always consult with a qualified healthcare practitioner before starting any herbal supplement, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, have medical conditions, or take medications.
References & Research
Information on this page is based on traditional herbal knowledge and modern scientific research. For a comprehensive list of references, please refer to our full citations page.
ℹ️ Disclaimer
This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. The FDA has not evaluated these statements. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before using herbal supplements.
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