Evidence supporting the use of: Chrysanthemum
For the health condition: Conjunctivitis

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Chrysanthemum (specifically Chrysanthemum morifolium, known as "Ju Hua" in Traditional Chinese Medicine) has a long history of use in East Asian medicine for ocular health, including the treatment and relief of conjunctivitis ("pink eye"). In traditional practice, it is believed to "clear heat" and "dispel wind," mechanisms thought to underlie many inflammatory eye conditions. Common preparations include herbal teas or decoctions containing chrysanthemum flowers, sometimes combined with other herbs such as honeysuckle or mulberry leaf.

While there is ample documentation of its traditional use, scientific evidence specifically supporting chrysanthemum for conjunctivitis remains limited. Some laboratory studies have demonstrated that chrysanthemum extracts possess anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, which could theoretically benefit conjunctivitis, particularly if caused by bacterial or allergic inflammation. However, these findings are mostly from in vitro or animal models, and there are no robust clinical trials in humans directly addressing its effectiveness for conjunctivitis.

In summary, the use of chrysanthemum for conjunctivitis is primarily justified by traditional practice rather than scientific validation. Its continued use in herbal formulas for eye health reflects centuries of anecdotal evidence and cultural acceptance, but modern clinical research is needed to confirm efficacy and safety for this indication.

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