Chrysanthemum Tea

Chrysanthemum tea is a caffeine-free herbal infusion brewed from the dried flowers of Chrysanthemum morifolium or Chrysanthemum indicum. It has been consumed across East Asia for over a thousand years — both as an everyday drink and as a cornerstone of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM).

Today it is enjoyed worldwide for its delicate floral flavour, its naturally caffeine-free character, and its rich profile of plant compounds including flavonoids, carotenoids, and phenolic acids.

☕ Caffeine-free  ·  Single ingredient  ·  Used in TCM for 1,000+ years
Key compounds: lutein, zeaxanthin, quercetin, luteolin, chlorogenic acid
Flavour: light, floral, mildly sweet  ·  Colour: pale golden

A Brief History

Chrysanthemum was first cultivated in China as a medicinal herb, long before it became the ornamental garden flower familiar in the West. During the Song Dynasty (960–1279 AD), dried chrysanthemum flowers began to be used as a tea infusion, a practice that spread across China and eventually to Japan, Korea, and beyond.

In China, chrysanthemum is one of the "Four Gentlemen" of flowers — a cultural symbol of longevity, resilience, and clarity. Its use in TCM is documented in the classic herbal text Shennong Bencao Jing (Divine Farmer's Materia Medica), one of the oldest pharmacopoeias in the world.

Active Compounds in Chrysanthemum Flowers

Chrysanthemum flowers contain a diverse range of naturally occurring plant compounds. Key bioactive constituents identified in Chrysanthemum morifolium and Chrysanthemum indicum include:

  • Lutein & zeaxanthin — carotenoids that support retinal health and filter blue light
  • Quercetin & luteolin — flavonoids with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity
  • Chlorogenic acid — a phenolic acid studied for antioxidant and metabolic properties
  • Apigenin — a flavone associated with calming properties
  • Beta-carotene — a carotenoid (pro-vitamin A) supporting eye and skin health
  • Potassium — a mineral that supports healthy blood pressure and heart function

Note: The information above describes the naturally occurring compounds found in chrysanthemum flowers. It does not constitute a health claim or medical advice.

Chrysanthemum in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)

In TCM, chrysanthemum is classified as a cooling herb with an affinity for the Liver and Lung meridians. It is described as acrid, sweet, and bitter in taste, and is traditionally used to address patterns associated with internal heat and wind-heat.

Chrysanthemum tea has a long history of traditional use in the following contexts:

  • Clearing heat — used in TCM to address internal heat patterns, particularly those affecting the head and eyes
  • Eye support — one of the most established traditional uses; frequently paired with goji berries (wolfberries) in TCM formulations
  • Calming the mind — traditionally used to ease restlessness and support sleep
  • Early-stage wind-heat — used at the onset of symptoms such as sore throat, headache, and mild fever
  • Liver support — traditionally prescribed to support liver function and reduce "liver heat"
  • Blood pressure — among the herbs used in TCM practice in connection with hypertension patterns

Traditional use statements describe historical practices within Chinese medicine and do not constitute health claims. Chrysanthemum tea is a food product, not a medicinal treatment.

How to Brew Chrysanthemum Tea

Using tea bags

  1. Place one tea bag in your cup or mug
  2. Pour over freshly boiled water (allow to cool 30 seconds — ideally 85–90°C)
  3. Steep for 4–5 minutes
  4. Remove the bag and enjoy — sweeten lightly with honey or rock sugar if preferred
  5. Serve hot, or allow to cool and drink over ice

Traditional pairing: Chrysanthemum & Goji Berry

A classic TCM combination — add 10–12 dried goji berries to the cup alongside the tea bag before pouring. The goji berries soften as they steep and can be eaten afterwards. This pairing is especially popular for supporting eye health in traditional practice.

Our Chrysanthemum Tea

We stock Chrysanthemum Tea made from 100% Chrysanthemum indicum flowers — single-ingredient, unbleached tea bags, with no additives, flavourings, or preservatives. Certified organic by Ecocert and the Soil Association.

  • 100% chrysanthemum — no blends, no fillers
  • Unbleached, biodegradable tea bags
  • Certified organic (Ecocert & Soil Association)
  • Naturally caffeine-free
  • 20 sachets per pack

→ Shop Chrysanthemum Tea — 20 Sachets

Further Reading

For a full discussion of the research and traditional literature behind chrysanthemum tea, see our in-depth guide:

→ 10 Chrysanthemum Tea Benefits + How to Brew It (UK Guide)

Important Information

This page is intended for educational purposes only. The information provided describes the naturally occurring compounds in chrysanthemum flowers and their historical use within Traditional Chinese Medicine. It does not constitute medical advice, and no health claims are made regarding the diagnosis, treatment, or prevention of any disease. Chrysanthemum tea is a food product. If you have a medical condition, are pregnant, breastfeeding, or are taking medication, please consult your GP or a qualified healthcare professional before use. If you are allergic to plants in the Asteraceae family (ragweed, daisies, marigolds), exercise caution.