9Chrysanthemum Flower

Chrysanthemum Flower (Ju-hua) – The Herb Used in Traditional Systems to Support Eye Health and Liver CoolingChrysanthemum Flower (Ju-hua), also known as chrysanthemum flowers Chrysanthemum morifolium or Chrysanthemum indicum, is a very popular and safe flower that has been part of traditional East Asian medicine systems for over 3000 years. In China, the chrysanthemum is regarded as a symbol of longevity and is highly valued for its calming properties and eye-comfort benefits. This herb has been part of the daily wellness routines of Asian peoples for centuries and is particularly known for its ability to relieve eye irritation, cool the liver and calm inner restlessness.Traditional Understanding in TCM SystemsWithin traditional Chinese medicine, chrysanthemum-flower (Ju-hua) is described as a sweet-bitter and acrid herb with a cool character. In the TCM theoretical framework, it acts on the so‑called Liver and Lung meridians. According to this traditional description, chrysanthemum-flower (Ju-hua) primarily supports normal eye health and calms the "Liver Yang" – a concept in TCM that stands for rising, hot energies that can cause red eyes, headaches, high blood pressure and irritability.Chrysanthemum Flower (Ju-hua) is seen in TCM as an herb that "expels Heat from external invasion," "calms Liver Yang," "nourishes Shen (spirit)" and "promotes eye comfort" – meaning it helps support normal eye function, maintain normal Liver Yang balance and soothe inner restlessness. It is traditionally used to support normal eye clarity, ease red or uncomfortable eyes, regulate normal blood pressure and promote emotional stability.Two Varieties – Preference:Bai Ju Hua (White Chrysanthemum): Preference for eye tonification and Yin-nourishingHuang Ju Hua (Yellow Chrysanthemum): Better for heat removal and external wind-heatBotanical Composition and ResearchChrysanthemum Flower (Ju-hua) contains over 100 bioactive compounds, of which the main ones are:Flavonoids (luteoline, apigenine, cynaroside, nobiletin) – strong antioxidant actionSesquiterpenes (chrysanthenone, safranal)Chlorogenic acid and caffeic acid – anti-inflammatory substancesAmino acids and polysaccharides – nutrition and immune supportTrace minerals (potassium, magnesium, zinc)Essential oils (camphor, α-pinene, eucalyptol)Modern scientific research shows that chrysanthemum-flower (Ju-hua) extracts can offer diverse benefits:Eye health support: Studies show that luteoline and other flavonoids can support normal eye cell structure and promote normal visual function. Research suggests chrysanthemum-flower (Ju-hua) can support normal eye comfort, normal eye clarity and normal iris function.Anti-inflammatory action: Chlorogenic acid and caffeic acid possess strong anti-inflammatory properties that can support normal inflammation balance in eye and other tissue.Antioxidant activity: Flavonoids possess strong free-radical-fighting action, providing protection against oxidative stress in eye tissues.Blood pressure support: Studies suggest that certain components can support normal blood vessel function and help maintain normal blood pressure.Normal heart function: Research suggests that certain flavonoids can support normal heart rate and normal coronary blood flow.Calming effect: Certain components can support normal nerve function and promote normal mood, aligning with traditional eye-and-emotional-balance use.Antimicrobial action: Studies show that chrysanthemum-flower (Ju-hua) possesses antimicrobial properties and can support normal immune response.Cooling action: Traditionally used for superficial heat; research suggests certain components can support normal body temperature.Traditional Applications – TCM ContextIn traditional TCM formulas, chrysanthemum-flower (Ju-hua) is classically used in situations described as:Red, uncomfortable or inflamed eyesBlurred vision or visual fatigueDry eyes or scratchy sensationFloaters in visionNear-sightedness or blurred vision when fatiguedHeadache or migraine related to Liver YangHigh blood pressure with Liver Yang patternIrritability or anxiety related to external wind-heatRed throat or mild cold symptomsSupporting normal eye clarity and vision comfortPromoting normal emotional balance and inner peaceThese are traditionalist descriptions that form part of the TCM thinking system and must not be equated with medical diagnoses in the sense of European medicinal product law.Cooling and Eye-Brightening CharacterChrysanthemum Flower (Ju-hua) is traditionally seen as a "cooling" and "eye-clarifying" herb – which helps cool superficial heat and promote normal eye function. This makes it particularly suitable for people with a tendency toward red eyes, eye fatigue or Liver Yang imbalance.Classical Formulas and ApplicationsChrysanthemum Flower (Ju-hua) is traditionally used very frequently in:Sang Ju Yin (Formula for Wind-Heat Clearing)Ming Mu Di Huang Wan (Formula for Eye Clarity)Long Dan Xie Gan Tang (Formula for Liver Heat Removal)Daily tea – traditionally combined with Gou Qi Zi (Goji berries)Very Safe Profile – Food QualityChrysanthemum Flower (Ju-hua) is known as one of the safest TCM flowers. It is edible, suitable for long-term daily use, suitable for children and pregnant women, and is also used as a food ingredient in salads and soups.IMPORTANT: Pyrethrum NoteChrysanthemum Flower (Ju-hua) contains pyrethrum (a natural insecticide). Normal tea intake is safe; however, concentrated oils or direct skin contact with oil can cause irritation. Individuals with chrysanthemum allergy must NOT use this herb.Seasonality and Daily UseChrysanthemum Flower (Ju-hua) particularly fits into summer wellness routines (traditionally a "summer" cooling herb), but is suitable year-round. It is classically used as a daily tea very frequently, especially in Asia.Well-being and Daily UseChrysanthemum Flower (Ju-hua) is valued by modern users as part of a conscious wellness routine aimed at eye health, normal blood pressure, emotional balance and general heat regulation, especially when they spend much time on screens, have red eyes, are under stress or wish to support their eye health. The herb works optimally in daily tea, in warm or iced form, traditionally combined with Goji berries (Gou Qi Zi) for synergistic eye benefits.Many users see chrysanthemum-flower (Ju-hua) as part of a daily health practice – as a nutrient-rich, cooling flower for eye health and emotional balance, alongside professional guidance and regular medical care when needed.Allergy PrecautionsIndividuals with allergy to chrysanthemum, ragweed or other Asteraceae flowers (such as chamomile, arnica) should be cautious and seek professional advice before using chrysanthemum-flower (Ju-hua) products.Important Note for the ConsumerThis product is a dietary supplement, food ingredient and tea product. TCM terms such as Liver Yang, Eye Clarity and Heat Removal are system concepts that form part of a traditional thinking system and must not be directly equated with anatomical structures or disease explanations in modern medicine. If you have persistent red eyes, serious visual problems or high blood pressure, you should always consult a doctor or health expert.