What are the functions and benefits of chrysanthemum?
Generally speaking, chrysanthemum, as a commonly used traditional Chinese herb, has various functions and benefits, primarily including疏散风热 (dispersing wind-heat), 清肝明目 (clearing liver and improving vision), 清热解毒 (clearing heat and detoxifying), 镇静安神 (calming the nerves and inducing tranquility), and 美容养颜 (beautifying the skin and complexion). A detailed explanation is as follows:

1. Dispersing Wind-Heat
Chrysanthemum is cold in nature and enters the lung and liver meridians, possessing the function of dispersing wind-heat. It is commonly used to treat wind-heat感冒 (common cold), alleviating symptoms such as headache, fever, and cough caused by wind-heat. Additionally, chrysanthemum can relieve redness and pain in the eyes caused by wind-heat.
2. Clearing Liver and Improving Vision
Chrysanthemum enters the liver meridian and can clear the liver and improve vision, providing effective relief for symptoms such as dryness, pain, and fatigue in the eyes. It can also be used to treat eye discomfort caused by liver fire ascending, such as redness, swelling, pain in the eyes, and tearing when exposed to wind.
3. Clearing Heat and Detoxifying
Chrysanthemum has heat-clearing and detoxifying properties, making it useful for treating various conditions caused by excessive internal heat, such as boils, abscesses, sore throat, and swelling pain. It helps alleviate inflammation and promotes wound healing.
4. Calming the Nerves and Inducing Tranquility
Chrysanthemum also has calming and tranquilizing effects, helping to relieve symptoms such as insomnia and vivid dreams caused by stress, anxiety, or nervous tension. It aids in regulating nervous system function, improving sleep quality, and helping individuals maintain a calm and relaxed state.
5. Beautifying the Skin and Complexion
The antioxidants present in chrysanthemum help combat free radical damage, protecting skin cells from harm. Therefore, chrysanthemum has beautifying effects, improving skin condition and making the skin smoother and more delicate.
Although chrysanthemum offers numerous benefits, excessive consumption may cause discomfort. Therefore, intake should be controlled in appropriate amounts.