CHRYSANTHEMUM (ju hua)
Ju hua is well known to florists' in the West as chrysanthemum and is valued for its ornamental qualities. In China, however, chrysanthemum is a popular medicinal herb and is also commonly drunk as a refreshing tisane. Chrysanthemum is used to improve vision and soothe sore eyes, to relieve headaches and to counter infections such as colds and flu. Furthermore, research has demonstrated that chrysanthemum is a valuable remedy for high blood pressure. Chrysanthemum has been taken in China as a medicine and as a beverage for thousands of years. Chrysanthemum was first categorized in the Divine Husbandman's Classic (Shen'nong Bencaojing), written in the 1st century AD. Eye problems - In China, the infused flower heads are popular as a remedy for red, sore eyes, especially after long periods of close work, such as reading or working at a computer. The warm flower heads are placed on closed eyes and then replaced when cool. Chrysanthemum infusion is taken as a remedy to improve the eyesight. Cooling & antiseptic - Chrysanthemum infusion is used to reduce fever, to counter infection, and to detoxify the body. Chrysanthemum relieves mild fevers and tension headaches, soothes a dry mouth or throat, and treats bad breath. Skin complaints - The fresh leaves make an antiseptic poultice for acne, pimples, boils, and sores. High blood pressure - Symptoms often associated with high blood pressure, such as dizziness, headaches, and tinnitus, are treated with chrysanthemum. Convulsions - Chrysanthemum is given mixed with other herbs to children suffering from convulsions.
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