What are the effects of white chrysanthemum flowers?
Jul 08, 2021
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Jiang Can
Introduction
1. Exerts antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects by inhibiting the activity of pathogens such as *Streptococcus pneumoniae*, *Staphylococcus albus*, beta-hemolytic *Streptococcus*, and *Staphylococcus aureus*.
2. Lowers blood pressure: White chrysanthemum contains flavonoids and alcohols that help soften blood vessels, remove cholesterol deposits from vessel walls, and promote blood circulation.
3. Improves vision and protects the eyes: Chrysanthemum is a classic traditional Chinese medicine widely used for treating ophthalmic disorders.
In fact, “white chrysanthemum” is not a distinct botanical variety of chrysanthemum. Among the major chrysanthemum varieties used in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), Hangzhou chrysanthemum (Hangju) is white in color—hence the term “Hangbaiju” (Hangzhou white chrysanthemum). Regarding Hangbaiju, its nature is cool, its taste sweet and slightly bitter, and it primarily enters the Lung and Liver meridians. Modern pharmacological research has confirmed that Hangbaiju contains volatile oils, flavonoids, amino acids, vitamins, and minerals, conferring the following therapeutic effects:
1. Antibacterial and Anti-inflammatory Effects
White chrysanthemum exhibits antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, as demonstrated by modern pharmacological studies. It shows inhibitory activity against several pathogenic bacteria, including Streptococcus pneumoniae, Staphylococcus albus, beta-hemolytic Streptococcus, and Staphylococcus aureus. Additionally, white chrysanthemum effectively enhances capillary permeability and strengthens capillary resistance, thereby exerting potent anti-inflammatory effects.
2. Hypotensive Effect
White chrysanthemum possesses hypotensive properties. Its flavonoid and alcohol constituents help soften blood vessels, clear cholesterol deposits from vessel walls, and accelerate blood circulation—contributing to a measurable reduction in blood pressure. Moreover, the flavonoids in white chrysanthemum scavenge free radicals, thereby helping delay physiological aging.
3. Vision Enhancement and Ocular Protection
Chrysanthemum is a classic TCM herb widely used for treating eye disorders. Individuals who frequently use their eyes—especially those experiencing dryness or fatigue—may benefit from regularly drinking chrysanthemum tea to alleviate such symptoms. Chrysanthemum tea is particularly suitable for people who spend prolonged periods viewing smartphones or computer screens, as it effectively relieves visual fatigue and mitigates the adverse effects of blue light on vision.
