Chrysanthemum Flower

Chrysanthemum flower, or Ju Hua, is a commonly used herb in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). It is believed to have a variety of medicinal properties and is used to treat a range of conditions, including those related to the liver, lungs, and eyes. In this article, we will explore the various TCM patterns and indications for using chrysanthemum, as well as its ingredients, properties, and treatment principles.

Patterns

Chrysanthemum flower is believed to be particularly effective in treating patterns of excess heat in the body. Some common TCM patterns associated with chrysanthemum include:

• Wind Heat: Chrysanthemum is often used to disperse wind-heat, or excess heat in the body that is believed to be caused by external pathogenic factors such as wind and heat. It is commonly used to treat symptoms such as fever, headache, and red, swollen eyes.

• Liver Yin-Deficiency: In TCM, liver yin is believed to be responsible for nourishing and moistening the body. When liver yin is deficient, it can lead to symptoms such as irritability, dry eyes, and dry skin. Chrysanthemum is thought to help nourish and moisturize the body, making it useful for treating liver yin deficiency.

• Kidney Yin-Deficiency: The kidneys are believed to be the root of yin and yang in the body in TCM. When kidney yin is deficient, it can lead to symptoms such as dizziness, tinnitus, and dry mouth. Chrysanthemum is thought to nourish and moisten the kidneys, making it useful for treating kidney yin deficiency.

• Liver Yang-Rising: In TCM, the liver is believed to be responsible for regulating the flow of qi, or energy, in the body. When liver yang becomes imbalanced, it can lead to symptoms such as irritability, anger, and hypertension. Chrysanthemum is believed to help calm the liver and regulate the flow of qi, making it useful for treating liver yang imbalance.

Tongue

In TCM, the tongue is believed to be a valuable diagnostic tool, as it is thought to reflect the health of the internal organs. The tongue can provide important information about the body's qi, blood, and body fluids, as well as the presence of any imbalances or excesses. In the case of chrysanthemum, the tongue may appear red and swollen with a yellow coating.

Pulse

The pulse is another important diagnostic tool in TCM. It is believed to provide information about the body's qi, blood, and body fluids, as well as the presence of any imbalances or excesses. In the case of chrysanthemum, the pulse may be rapid and wiry, indicating the presence of excess heat in the body.

Contraindications

While chrysanthemum flower is generally considered to be safe and effective, there are certain contraindications to be aware of. Chrysanthemum flower should not be used in cases of deficient qi, as it is believed to drain the body's energy. It should also not be used in cases of stomach cold from deficiency, as it may further weaken the stomach. Additionally, chrysanthemum flower should not be used in cases of diarrhea, as it may exacerbate the condition.