Chrysanthemum (Chrysanthemum morifolium)
Synopsis of chrysanthemum
Chrysanthemum, particularly the species Chrysanthemum morifolium (also known as Chrysanthemum indicum or simply ju hua in Chinese), is a flowering plant widely used in herbal medicine, traditional teas, and therapeutic preparations. Native to East Asia and cultivated for over 2,000 years, chrysanthemum flowers are rich in flavonoids, phenolic acids, and volatile oils, which contribute to their medicinal properties. The dried flowers are the primary part used medicinally.
Chrysanthemum is best known for its cooling, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant effects. In traditional herbalism, it is used to help clear heat and wind, referring to internal inflammation and external pathogens in traditional Chinese medical theory. It is commonly used to relieve symptoms such as red or irritated eyes, headaches, fevers, sore throats, and high blood pressure. Its vasodilatory properties help improve circulation and may mildly reduce blood pressure, while its antimicrobial and antioxidant compounds provide cellular protection.
Modern research supports several of these traditional uses. Compounds like luteolin and apigenin in chrysanthemum have been found to exhibit anti-inflammatory, anti-hypertensive, and neuroprotective effects, while also showing mild antibacterial and antiviral activity. Chrysanthemum tea, in particular, is consumed both as a gentle daily tonic and as a remedy during colds, flu, or seasonal allergies.
It is generally considered safe and gentle, making it suitable for both acute and long-term use. However, individuals with ragweed or daisy family allergies (Asteraceae) may experience cross-reactivity.
Historical Use
Chrysanthemum has a deep-rooted history in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), where it is classified as a cooling herb used to dispel wind-heat, nourish the liver, and brighten the eyes. It was first recorded in the Shennong Bencao Jing (Divine Farmer’s Classic of Materia Medica), one of the earliest Chinese pharmacopeias, and has been revered not just for its medicinal properties but also for its symbolism of longevity, purity, and renewal.
In Chinese households and herbal shops, chrysanthemum tea has long been brewed with goji berries, licorice root, or honeysuckle to address eye strain, heat-induced headaches, or seasonal illnesses. In Taoist tradition, it was also used as a life-prolonging herb, often consumed in tonics or infused wines. Beyond China, chrysanthemum was used in Japanese Kampo medicine and Korean traditional healing systems, where its role closely mirrored its Chinese applications.
Over time, the use of chrysanthemum spread to the West, where it gained recognition as a calming herbal infusion with mild sedative and circulatory benefits. Today, it remains a staple in herbal medicine for eye health, inflammation reduction, immune support, and as a cooling, floral tea that blends therapeutic function with cultural tradition.
Chrysanthemum is used for these health conditions
Acne (Traditional)
Allergies (respiratory) (Traditional)
Anxiety (Traditional)
Arthritis (Traditional)
Asthma (Traditional)
Bronchitis (Traditional)
Cancer (prevention) (Traditional)
Cancer Treatment (reducing side effects) (Traditional)
Cardiovascular Disease (Traditional)
Chills (Traditional)
Colds (antiviral) (Traditional)
Colds (decongestant) (Traditional)
Colds (general) (Traditional)
Colds (prevention) (Traditional)
Congestion (bronchial) (Traditional)
Congestion (lungs) (Traditional)
Congestion (sinus) (Traditional)
Conjunctivitis (Traditional)
Dizziness (Traditional)
Dyspepsia (Traditional)
Eye Problems (Traditional)
Eyes (red or itching) (Traditional)
Fever (Traditional)
Gastritis (Traditional)
Headache (general) (Traditional)
Headache (sinus) (Traditional)
Headache (tension) (Traditional)
Hypertension (Traditional)
Indigestion (Traditional)
Inflammation (Scientific)
Influenza (Traditional)
Insomnia (Traditional)
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (Traditional)
Liver Detoxification (Traditional)
Memory and Brain Function (Traditional)
Migraine (Traditional)
Nausea and Vomiting (Traditional)
chrysanthemum is used to support these body systems
Blood (Traditional)
Brain (Traditional)
Circulatory System (Traditional)
Digestive System (Traditional)
Eyes (Traditional)
Heart (Traditional)
Immune System (Traditional)
Liver (Traditional)
Lungs (Traditional)
Parasympathetic Nervous System (Traditional)
Respiratory System (Traditional)
Skin (Traditional)
Products containing chrysanthemum
Nature's Sunshine Chinese TCM Positive Pack
Nature's Sunshine IF-C
Nature's Sunshine IF-C TCM
