Chrysanthemum x morifolium Origin-China

Also known as

Chrysanthemum morifolium, Anthemis grandiflorum, Anthemis stipulacea, Chrysanthemum sinense, Chrysanthemum stipulaceum, Dendranthema grandiflorum, Dendranthema morifolium, Florist's Chrysanthemum, Ju Hua, Matricaria morifolia, Mum.

Introduction

The chrysanthemum, Japan?s national flower, is one of the most important herbs in traditional Japanese medicine. The wild chrysanthemum is a sprawling, leafy plant with clusters of daisy like flowers at its crown.

Constituents

Ascorbic acid, beta-cartone, calcium, fiber, folacin, iron, magnesium, niacin, potassium, riboflavin, essential oils.

Parts Used

The whole flowers, dried, sometimes powdered.

Typical Preparations

Teas, tinctures, creams, lotions. When making the tea, be sure to allow the herb to steep in hot water for no more than 10 minutes in a closed vessel, to preserve the essential oil. Chrysanthemum is often combined with self-heal (prunella) to make teas and lotions for treating infection. May also be taken as a capsule.

Summary

Chrysanthemum is used for its effects on the eyes. Traditional Chinese Medicine teaches that the herb corrects imbalances in liver and kidney function that cause blurred vision, dizziness, dry red eyes, excessive tearing, or spots in front of the eyes. Chrysanthemum also treats headaches accompanying infection, carbuncles, furuncles, and vertigo. Wild chrysanthemum is though to be more useful than the cultivated variety for treatment of sores abscesses, especially those of the head and back. Chrysanthemum also contains compounds that fight staph infections of the skin.

Precautions

None

For educational purposes only

This information has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

Information Obtained from mountain rose herbs @ http://www.mountainroseherbs.com/