Botanical Overview
Chrysanthemum morifolium belongs to the Asteraceae family and is commonly known as Chrysanthemum, Florist’s chrysanthemum, Hardy garden mum, Chrysanthemum flower, or Ju Hua in Chinese medicine. The medicinal part used is predominantly the flower. Native to East Asia, it is widely cultivated and utilized in China, Japan, and Korea for its therapeutic properties.
Energetics
Chrysanthemum morifolium is characterized by a cooling temperature and neutral moisture energetics. It has a bitter and sweet taste and exhibits an ascending and outward directionality. Its tonicity is relaxing, influencing primarily the qi aspect in traditional energetics.
Primary Actions
- Anti-inflammatory
- Antioxidant
- Antipyretic
- Relaxant
- Detoxifying
Indications
Western
- Fever
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Eye strain
- Hypertension
- Skin inflammation
- Allergic rhinitis
Syndromes
- Upper respiratory tract infections
- Hypertension
- Inflammatory conditions
TCM
- Headache
- Fever
- Red eyes
- Dizziness
- Blurry vision
- Skin rashes
Syndromes
- Wind-heat invasion
- Liver fire rising
- Eye disorders due to liver yin deficiency
Ayurveda
No well-established traditional indications documented.
Unani
No well-established traditional indications documented.
Constituents & Mechanisms
Chrysanthemum morifolium contains diverse phytochemicals including flavonoids, chlorogenic acids, volatile oils, sesquiterpenes, and polyphenols which contribute to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.
Dosage & Preparations
- Infusion: 3-6 g dried flowers in hot water, 1-3 times daily
- Decoction of flowers: 5-10 g daily
- Tincture (1:5, 50% ethanol): 2-4 mL, 2-3 times daily
Safety & Contraindications
Chrysanthemum morifolium is generally considered safe when used as traditional infusions or teas. However, it may cause photosensitivity or allergic reactions in those sensitive to the Asteraceae family. Caution is advised during pregnancy and lactation due to insufficient safety data. Potential additive effects with antihypertensive medications should be considered.
Astrological Correspondences
No reliable sources identified for planetary or elemental rulers for Chrysanthemum morifolium.
Selected References
- Phytochemical and pharmacological studies on Chrysanthemum morifolium – Li et al., 2018
- Chinese Herbal Medicine: Materia Medica – Bensky, Clavey & Stöger, 2004
- Assessment report on Chrysanthemum morifolium flower – European Medicines Agency HMPC, 2010
- The traditional use and pharmacology of Chrysanthemum morifolium – Zhang Wei, 2012