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Chrysanthemums are not only pretty, they’re medicine.
The medicinal part of the chrysanthemum is the flower. The flowers are usually picked from the plants and allowed to dry – not in the sun but in the shade – before use, and are used raw. Chrysanthemum flowers contain a volatile oil made of a variety of amino acids and other substances, including borneol, camphor, adenine, and small amounts of vitamin B1.
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, chrysanthemum has sweet, bitter, and slightly cold properties and is associated with the Lung and Liver meridians. The three main functions of chrysanthemum are:
+ to pacify the liver,
+ to reduce inflammation,
+ to help improve eye sight,
+ to release toxins, dispel wind, and clear heat.
Generally, a dose of 5 to 15 grams of dried chrysanthemum, usually in an infusion or decoction, is recommended. Use to treat live qi stagnation, liver heat, the beginning of a cold or flu or sinus infection or for pain from conditions like osteoporosis. Chrysanthemum tea, which is made with crushed dried flowers and boiling water, may also be used. Note: people who are allergic to chrysanthemums should not take the herb.
Lucas Teachings staff
