Chrysanthemum flowers look very different depending on the variety. Some chrysanthemums have pompom-like flower balls, while others have a halo. There are also simple, semi-filled and filled variations. The different flowers not only look beautiful, but have also been used in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) for thousands of years.
What are chrysanthemum flowers used for in medicine?
Chrysanthemum flowers are used in traditional Chinese medicine as a tea for tension headaches, high blood pressure and fever. Externally, compresses help with acne and boils. Only edible chrysanthemums, especially Chrysanthemum x morifolium, are suitable for this.
Chrysanthemum tea for tension headaches
According to TCM teachings, a tea made from dried chrysanthemum flowers can be used primarily against tension headaches, but also high blood pressure and fever. Compresses with chrysanthemum flowers are used externally against acne and boils. But be careful: not every type of chrysanthemum is suitable for use as a food or medicine. There are many poisonous species, which is why it is better to use so-called edible chrysanthemums. The Tanacetum species in particular are considered poisonous. In TCM the flowers of Chrysanthemum x morifolium are mainly used.
Tips & Tricks
A natural insecticide called pyrethrin is produced from the poisonous Tanacetum chrysanthemums.
