chrysanthemum

BotanicalBest with a meal

What is it

Chrysanthemum (typically Chrysanthemum morifolium or C. indicum, called Ju Hua in Traditional Chinese Medicine) is a flower used as both a refreshing tea and a traditional herbal remedy. It is most often used for eye health, headaches, and 'cooling' inflammatory conditions in TCM.

Evidence for 2 uses

AI-assisted evidence assessment — talk to your doctor before relying on any single supplement.

Eye irritation / headaches (traditional)

Mixed Evidence

Long traditional use in Chinese medicine. Controlled clinical evidence is limited.

Antioxidant / anti-inflammatory (preclinical)

Mixed Evidence

Laboratory studies of chrysanthemum extracts show antioxidant activity. Human clinical evidence is sparse.

How it works

Chrysanthemum flowers contain flavonoids (luteolin, apigenin), volatile oils, and chlorogenic acid. These compounds show anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and mild antimicrobial activity in laboratory studies. In TCM theory chrysanthemum 'clears heat' from the liver and eyes and is used for red, irritated eyes, headaches, and dizziness. Modern research is exploratory: chrysanthemum extracts have been studied for cardiovascular markers, antibacterial effects, and antioxidant capacity, but high-quality clinical trials are uncommon.

Dosage

Tea: 3-9 grams of dried flowers per day. Capsule extracts vary widely. DSLD label data did not include a typical dose.

When and how to take it

WHEN: Often consumed as a daytime tea or with meals. HOW: Dried flowers steeped as tea (the most common use), or as capsule or liquid extract.

2 commercial forms

Compare the main delivery options and what they’re best suited for.

Dried whole flower

Traditional and common form.

Water-soluble compounds extracted in tea.

Standardized extract (capsule)

Modern format.

Concentrated; standardization is variable.

Safety

Generally well tolerated. Allergic reactions occur in people sensitive to plants in the Asteraceae family (ragweed, daisy, marigold). Pollen contact can cause asthma in sensitive individuals.

Who should be cautious

Avoid if you have Asteraceae/ragweed allergy. Use caution in pregnancy and lactation due to limited safety data. People on antihypertensive medications should monitor blood pressure if using regularly.

Interactions

Limited interaction data. Theoretical interactions with blood pressure medications based on small studies showing mild hypotensive effects.

Food sources

Chrysanthemum tea (Ju Hua Cha)

Amount
~5g dried flowers per cup
%DV
—

Frequently asked questions

Is chrysanthemum tea good for the eyes?⌄

It is a traditional remedy for tired or irritated eyes. Modern evidence is limited. The hydrating effect of any tea may help.

Can chrysanthemum cause allergies?⌄

Yes - people allergic to ragweed, daisies, or chamomile may react to chrysanthemum.

References

chrysanthemum on NIH DSLD (US supplement label database) — NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database link

Research on chrysanthemum (PubMed search) — PubMed link

Track chrysanthemum with Pilora

Set up dose reminders, check interactions, and join the community in the Pilora iPhone app.

Coming to App Store
Evidence-based·How we grade evidence

Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This page is educational, not a substitute for personalized medical advice. Evidence grades are AI-assisted assessments — talk to your doctor before starting any new supplement, especially if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, on medications, or managing a chronic condition.