Ju Hua
Chrysanthemum morifolium Ramat.
☯ TCM Properties
Disperses Wind-Heat; Calms the Liver and Subdues Yang; Clears Liver Heat and Brightens the Eyes; Clears Heat and Resolves Toxicity
Western Herbalism Properties
Botanical Description
Chrysanthemum morifolium Ramat. (Asteraceae) is a hardy herbaceous perennial growing to about 0.6 to 1.5 meters tall, with erect, branching, slightly woody-based stems arising from a creeping rootstock. The leaves are alternate, ovate to lanceolate in outline, 3 to 8 cm long, pinnately lobed with coarsely toothed margins, dull green above and grayish-tomentose beneath, and aromatic when crushed. Flower heads are borne in loose terminal corymbs and are typically 2 to 5 cm in diameter; each head consists of numerous strap-shaped ray florets surrounding a center of small tubular disc florets, the whole subtended by an involucre of overlapping bracts. Wild cultivars used medicinally bear single white or yellow heads, while ornamental cultivars are often fully double. Native to East Asia and cultivated for centuries in China, the unopened or just-opened flower heads are harvested and dried as Ju Hua, used in traditional Chinese medicine and as a beverage tea.
Dosage
| Form | Amount | Frequency | Duration | Population | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| decoction | 3-9g | Daily | — | — | — |
Cultural & Historical Context
Traditional Chinese Uses
Ju Hua (chrysanthemum flower) is a cooling, slightly sweet herb with a strong affinity for the eyes and head. It is commonly used to dispel Wind-Heat causing headache and feverish symptoms, and is among the most effective herbs for Liver Heat or rising Liver Yang manifesting as red, sore, swollen, or tired eyes and visual disturbances. It also helps clear Liver Fire contributing to dizziness and hypertension. Light and pleasant in taste, it is frequently taken as a daily tea for eye support and general heat clearing.
Traditional American Uses
None Documented
Important Disclaimer
This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before using any herbal remedy, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, or taking medications.