Recipe for Chrysanthemum Decoction (菊花茶) in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)

Origin of the Chrysanthemum Decoction Recipe (菊花茶)

Chrysanthemum decoction, or 菊花茶 (Jú huā chá) in Chinese, is an ancient drink from Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). It has been used for centuries for its medicinal properties and symbolic significance. The chrysanthemum is a revered plant, especially for its ability to treat internal heat, inflammation, and various eye disorders. References to this plant can be found in Chinese medical texts over 2,000 years old, and its use in decoctions dates back to the Tang Dynasty (618-907) or even earlier, during the Han Dynasty (206 BC – 220 AD).

The chrysanthemum is associated with autumn, a time when it blooms and symbolizes longevity and health. According to the Shen Nong Ben Cao Jing (神农本草经), a foundational TCM text dating back to around 200 BC, chrysanthemum flowers are classified as beneficial for health.

First Documented Recipe

The first written mention of chrysanthemum flowers in medicinal decoctions likely dates from the Tang and Song Dynasties (618-1279). The Compendium of Materia Medica (Bencao Gangmu), written by Li Shizhen in the 16th century, remains a key reference. Li Shizhen describes chrysanthemum as having the ability to "refresh the blood and relieve heat" and highlights its role in alleviating headaches and improving vision.

Traditional Chinese Recipe for Chrysanthemum Decoction (菊花茶)

Chrysanthemum tea is known for its refreshing and soothing properties. It is particularly beneficial for vision, eye fatigue, and headache relief. Here is the traditional recipe for making it:

Ingredients:

• 5 to 8 dried chrysanthemum flowers
• 500 ml of pure water
• (Optional) Honey or sugar, to taste
• (Optional) Jujube (red date) for its nourishing properties and sweet taste

Preparation:

1. Prepare the flowers:
   Rinse the chrysanthemum flowers under cold water to remove any dust or impurities.

2. Boil the water:
   In a pot, add about 500 ml of water.
   Bring the water to a boil over medium heat.

3. Add the flowers:
   Once the water boils, add the chrysanthemum flowers.
   Let it simmer for about 5 to 10 minutes to extract the aroma and active ingredients from the flowers.

4. Strain the decoction:
   Remove the pot from the heat and strain the tea using a fine mesh strainer, keeping only the liquid.

5. Add optional ingredients:
   If desired, add a bit of honey or sugar to sweeten the taste. Traditionally, it is consumed without sugar.
   You can also add jujubes to naturally sweeten the decoction and benefit from their nutritious properties.

6. Serve:
   Serve the decoction hot. It can also be cooled for a refreshing cold drink, especially during summer months.

Benefits of Chrysanthemum Decoction:

• Refreshing and soothing: This decoction helps cool the body and calm internal heat, especially appreciated on hot days.
• Relieves headaches and eye fatigue: It alleviates headaches caused by heat and reduces eye strain, beneficial for those who spend a lot of time in front of screens.
• Improves vision: Chrysanthemum is considered beneficial for clearer vision.
• Anti-inflammatory properties: It has anti-inflammatory effects, helping soothe symptoms of inflammation or irritation.

Variants of Chrysanthemum Decoction (菊花茶):

Although the basic recipe remains simple, several variations exist depending on the added ingredients:

• Chrysanthemum tea with jujube (red date): Jujube, known for its nourishing properties and sweet taste, is often added to tone the blood and strengthen the immune system.
• Chrysanthemum tea with goji (goji berries): Goji berries are added for their benefits to vision and their ability to nourish the liver and kidneys.
• Chrysanthemum tea with honey: While traditionally sugar-free, some prefer to sweeten the taste with a bit of honey for its soothing benefits.
• Chrysanthemum tea with ginger: Ginger can be added for its warming and soothing effects, particularly helpful in winter.
• Chrysanthemum tea with lychee: Lychee can provide a sweet and slightly tangy flavor, beneficial for blood circulation.

Conclusion:

Chrysanthemum tea is a drink deeply rooted in Chinese culture, with over 2,000 years of history. It is widely consumed for its health benefits, especially for vision and relieving internal heat. While the base recipe is simple, variations add extra benefits, making it a drink suited for various medicinal and gustatory needs.