Herbal tea · China
Chrysanthemum
Delicate Asian flower tea with cooling properties, traditionally used to clear heat and brighten eyes.
How to brew
| Leaf | Water | Temperature | Time | Infusions | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Western | 2 g | 250 ml | 85°C / 185°F | 4 min | 5 |
| Gong Fu | 5 g | 100 ml | 85°C / 185°F | 30 s + | 8 |
About this tea
Chrysanthemum tea (ju hua cha), made from specific cultivated varieties, has cooled and healed Chinese people for over 1,000 years. Unlike ornamental mums, tea varieties like Hangbai Ju, Gong Ju, and Chu Ju are bred for flavor and medicine. Traditional Chinese Medicine considers it essential for clearing 'heat' and 'wind,' making it perfect for headaches, fevers, and eye strain. Modern Chinese office workers keep it handy for computer-strained eyes.
The flowers are harvested at peak bloom, then carefully dried to preserve delicate petals and beneficial compounds. Different varieties offer varying qualities: Hangbai Ju is sweetest, Gong Ju most prestigious, wild varieties more bitter but potent. Quality chrysanthemum shows whole, intact flowers that bloom when steeped. Color ranges from white to bright yellow depending on variety.
The flavor profile is delicate and refreshing: mild sweetness with subtle floral notes, slight grassiness, and cooling sensation. There's no bitterness in quality flowers, just clean, light flavor. Some varieties have honey undertones. The cooling effect is physical - the mouth and throat feel refreshed. The pale to bright yellow liquor looks like sunshine with gentle floral aroma.
Brewing recommendations: Use 3-6 whole flowers (1g) per 250ml cup with water at 85°C (185°F). Watch flowers bloom as they steep 4 minutes - a visual delight. Can re-steep 2-3 times with longer steeping. Often combined with goji berries or rock sugar. Never use boiling water which destroys delicate compounds.
Excellent for eye health - Chinese students drink it during exam periods. The cooling properties help headaches, fever, and inflammation. May lower blood pressure and support liver health. Perfect summer tea served hot to induce cooling through mild perspiration, or iced for direct cooling. Safe for most people but avoid with diarrhea or cold constitution. In China, served at dim sum to cut through greasy foods. The visual beauty of blooming flowers adds meditation to tea time.
Caffeine, in context
Per 250 ml cup, brewed as directed.
Flavor profile
- floral
- honey
- delicate
- slightly sweet
Health benefits
- cooling
- eye health
- liver support
- relaxation
Pairs wonderfully with
- dim sum
- Chinese pastries
- rock sugar
- summer heat
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Frequently asked questions
Can you re-steep Chrysanthemum?
Yes — Chrysanthemum gives 8 good infusions. Start at 30 seconds and add a little time to each round.
How much caffeine is in Chrysanthemum?
0 mg per 250 ml cup — Caffeine-free.
What water temperature does Chrysanthemum need?
85°C / 185°F. Hotter water pulls out bitterness; cooler water under-extracts the leaf.
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