Chrysanthemum Tea
Chrysanthemum tea is a cooling herbal beverage made from dried chrysanthemum flowers. It has a delicate, slightly sweet flavor and is valued in TCM for its cooling properties. It's traditionally used to clear heat from the body, especially from the liver and eyes.
Benefits:
- Reduces eye strain and improves vision
- Clears heat and toxins from the body
- Helps relieve headaches
- Supports liver health
About Chrysanthemum Tea
Chrysanthemum tea (Ju Hua Cha) is made from the dried flowers of the chrysanthemum plant. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, it is classified as a cooling herb that disperses wind, clears heat, and detoxifies. It is particularly renowned for its ability to benefit the eyes and liver. The white or yellow varieties are most commonly used for tea, with the white chrysanthemum flowers considered superior for medicinal purposes.
Historical Use
Chrysanthemum has been cultivated in China for over 3,000 years. Initially used as an imperial herb in the royal courts during the Tang Dynasty (618-907 AD), it eventually became widely used throughout China for its medicinal properties. The famous poet Tao Yuanming (365-427 AD) was known for his love of chrysanthemums and contributed to popularizing the flower in Chinese culture.
How to Prepare Chrysanthemum Tea
Ingredients:
- 3-5g (approximately 10-15 flowers) dried chrysanthemum flowers
- Optional: small amount of rock sugar or honey to taste
- Optional: 2-3 goji berries for added benefits
- 300ml hot water
Preparation Method:
- Place the dried chrysanthemum flowers in a glass or ceramic teapot or cup.
- For a more delicate flavor, bring water to about 90°C (194°F) – just before boiling point.
- Pour the hot water over the flowers.
- Add rock sugar or honey if desired.
- Cover and steep for 3-5 minutes (longer steeping will produce a stronger flavor).
- The color should be a pale to golden yellow when ready.
- The same flowers can typically be used for 2-3 infusions, with each infusion having a milder flavor.
- If using goji berries, add them toward the end of steeping time.
Recommended Dosage:
Can be consumed 1-2 cups daily. Best taken warm in the afternoon or evening. Particularly beneficial when experiencing eye strain, headaches, or during hot weather.
Precautions
- Those with allergies to plants in the daisy family (Asteraceae) should avoid chrysanthemum tea.
- May cause photosensitivity in some individuals.
- Those with cold constitutions in TCM terms should use with caution or pair with warming herbs.
- Chrysanthemum has mild sedative properties, so avoid drinking before driving or operating machinery if you are sensitive to these effects.
- Pregnant and breastfeeding women should consult with a healthcare provider before use.
Modern Research
Recent studies have shown that chrysanthemum contains compounds with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties. Research suggests potential benefits for reducing high blood pressure, supporting liver function, and protecting against certain eye conditions. Its natural compounds may also help reduce fevers and alleviate certain allergic reactions.