Chrysanthemums (), sometimes called mums or chrysanths, are flowering plants of the genus Chrysanthemum in the family Asteraceae. They are native to East Asia and northeastern Europe. Most species originate from East Asia and the center of diversity is in China. Countless horticultural varieties and cultivars exist.

The name 'chrysanthemum' is derived from the Ancient Greek: χρυσός chrysos (gold) and Ancient Greek: ἄνθεμον anthemon (flower).

The genus once included more species, but was split several ...

chrysanthemum

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Ju-Hua-Tea-Recipes

Ju Hua Tea Recipes

Classic-Ju-Hua-Tea

Classic Ju Hua Tea

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<ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">1 tablespoon dried Ju Hua (Chrysanthemum morifolium) flowers</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">8 ounces boiling water</li></ul>&nbsp;

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<ol><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Place the dried Ju Hua flowers in a teapot or a tea infuser.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Pour the boiling water over the flowers.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Allow the tea to steep for 5-10 minutes.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Strain the tea into a cup and enjoy it warm.</li></ol>

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Ju-Hua-and-Goji-Berry-Tea

Ju Hua and Goji Berry Tea

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<ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">1 tablespoon dried Ju Hua (Chrysanthemum morifolium) flowers</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">1 tablespoon dried goji berries (Lycium barbarum)</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">8 ounces boiling water</li></ul>&nbsp;

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<ol><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Place the dried Ju Hua flowers and goji berries in a teapot or a tea infuser.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Pour the boiling water over the mixture.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Allow the tea to steep for 5-10 minutes.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Strain the tea into a cup and enjoy it warm.</li></ol>

Anticancer-Properties

Anticancer Properties

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While Ju Hua tea is primarily known for its benefits to eye health, research has also shown that it may possess anticancer properties. A study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology found that Chrysanthemum morifolium extracts exhibited significant antiproliferative effects against several human cancer cell lines (1). This suggests that Ju Hua tea could potentially contribute to a natural, holistic approach to cancer prevention and treatment.

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(1) Ye, M., Luo, X., & Li, L. (2017). Antiproliferative effects of Chrysanthemum morifolium Ramat. extract in MCF-7 human breast cancer cells. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 206, 62-68.

Questions-and-Answers

Questions and Answers

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Q: Can I drink Ju Hua tea if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

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A: It is always best to consult your healthcare provider before consuming any herbal tea during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Although Ju Hua tea is considered safe in moderation, your doctor can provide personalized advice based on your individual needs.

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Q: Can I use fresh Chrysanthemum flowers to make Ju Hua tea?

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A: Yes, you can use fresh Chrysanthemum flowers to make Ju Hua tea. However, make sure they are pesticide-free and thoroughly cleaned before use.

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Q: How often should I drink Ju Hua tea to experience its benefits?

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A: Drinking one to two cups of Ju Hua tea daily is generally considered sufficient to experience its health benefits. However, consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice.

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Q: Can I add sweeteners to Ju Hua tea?

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A: Yes, you can add sweeteners like honey or stevia to your Ju Hua tea, but it's important to consume added sugars in moderation.

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Q: Is Ju Hua tea safe for children?

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A: Ju Hua tea is generally considered safe for children. However, it is essential to consult a pediatrician or healthcare provider before introducing any herbal tea into a child's diet. They can provide guidance on appropriate serving sizes and any potential concerns based on the child's age and health.

Ju Hua tea, made from the flowers of the Chrysanthemum morifolium plant, is a traditional Chinese remedy for promoting eye health and clearer vision. Easy to prepare, this soothing tea can be enjoyed on its own or combined with other ingredients like goji berries. In addition to its ocular benefits, Ju Hua tea has been found to exhibit anticancer properties, making it a valuable addition to a healthy lifestyle.

Ju Hua Tea: Bright Eyes and Clear Vision

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 Ju Hua Tea: Bright Eyes and Clear Vision

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What-is-echinacea?

What is echinacea? 

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The echinacea plant, also known as American echinacea or purple echinacea, is a wild flowering herb known for its medicinal properties based on its traditional use. &nbsp;<a href="https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/echinacea" target="_blank" data-ref="Echinacea" rel="noopener">[ref. 1]</a>&nbsp; Echinacea originated in North America and is recognizable by daisy-like flowers, usually purple, around a spiny, cone-like center. &nbsp;<a href="https://www.karger.com/Article/FullText/71678" target="_blank" data-ref="" rel="noopener">[ref. 2]</a>&nbsp; The term 'echinacea' actually refers to genera of plants and several species of this family, including purpurea and angustifolia, which are distinguished by their content of alkylamides (considered as active ingredients).

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Originally used by native Indians, echinacea has been used as a traditional herbal remedy since the 18th century for a number of conditions, such as coughs and colds, snakebites, burns, anthrax infections, and minor wounds. It has also been reported that echinacea root can be chewed to relieve toothache pain and throat infections.

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The three types of echinacea used in herbal remedies and dietary supplements are: &nbsp;<a href="https://academic.oup.com/jpp/article/57/8/929/6147494" target="_blank" data-ref="Echinacea species (Echinacea angustifolia (DC.) Hell., Echinacea pallida (Nutt.) Nutt., Echinacea purpurea (L.) Moench): a review of their chemistry, pharmacology and clinical properties&dagger;" rel="noopener">[ref. 3]</a>&nbsp;

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<ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Echinacea purpurea (Echinacea purple) - the most widely used and popular type of echinacea;</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Echinacea pallida (Echinacea palida);</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Echinacea angustifolia (Echinacea angustifolia).</li></ul>

What-are-the-benefits-of-echinacea?

What are the benefits of echinacea?

High-in-antioxidants

High in antioxidants 

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Echinacea plants are loaded with plant compounds that act as antioxidants. Antioxidants are molecules that help protect your cells against oxidative stress. Severe oxidative stress has been linked to the development of chronic diseases, such as diabetes, heart disease and many others.

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Some of these antioxidants are flavonoids, chicory acid and rosmarinic acid. &nbsp;<a href="http://www.phcogrev.com/article/2015/9/17/1041030973-7847156353" target="_blank" data-ref="Echinacea purpurea: Pharmacology, Phytochemistry and Analysis Methods | Pharmacognosy Reviews" rel="noopener">[ref. 4]</a>&nbsp;These antioxidants are usually in higher amounts in extracts of the fruits and flowers of plants, compared to other parts, such as the leaves and root.

Echinacea-for-frequent-colds-and-flu-like-diseases

Echinacea for frequent colds and flu-like diseases 

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Echinacea is best known for its purported ability to relieve colds and flu-like infections and for helping shorten the duration of such ailments.

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A 2011 review of available studies, published in the medical journal Pharmaceuticals, found that Echinacea purpurea possesses numerous beneficial effects in the treatment of viral respiratory infections, including: &nbsp;<a href="https://www.mdpi.com/1424-8247/4/7/1019" target="_blank" data-ref="Echinacea&mdash;A Source of Potent Antivirals for Respiratory Virus Infections" rel="noopener">[ref. 5]</a>&nbsp;

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<ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Direct virucidal activity against several respiratory viruses;&nbsp;</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Reversal of the proinflammatory response of epithelial cells and tissues to various viruses;</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Reducing excessive secretion of mucin from cells and tissues of the respiratory tract;</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Absence of cytotoxic effects or impairment of the integrity of Echinacea tissues in cell cultures or airway tissues, at practical antiviral concentrations;</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Additional potentially positive effects on cellular gene expression.&nbsp;</li></ul>

Anti-inflammatory-action-of-echinacea

Anti-inflammatory action of echinacea  

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It has also been shown that echinacea has an anti-inflammatory effect inside the body. &nbsp;<a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/ptr.2714" target="_blank" data-ref="Just a moment..." rel="noopener">[Ref. 6]</a>&nbsp; Inflammation is your body's natural way of promoting healing and protecting itself as needed. Sometimes it can get out of control and last longer than necessary and expected. This can increase the risk of chronic diseases and other health problems.

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Several studies have shown that echinacea can help reduce excess inflammation. For example, in a study in mice, echinacea compounds helped reduce important inflammatory markers and memory loss caused by inflammation. &nbsp;<a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1096/fj.201601071R" target="_blank" data-ref="Just a moment..." rel="noopener">[ref. 7]</a>&nbsp;

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In another 30-day study in adults with osteoarthritis, taking a supplement containing echinacea extract was found to significantly reduce inflammation, chronic pain, and swelling. Interestingly, these adults did not respond well to conventional nonsteroidal inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), but found that the supplement containing echinacea extract worked well for them.&nbsp;

Anticancer-properties-of-echinacea

Anticancer properties of echinacea 

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In vitro studies have shown that echinacea extracts can inhibit the growth of cancer cells and even cause cancer cell death.

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In one in vitro study, echinacea purpurea extract and cicoric acid (naturally found in echinacea plants) were shown to induce cancer cell death. <a href="https://linkinghub.elsevier.com/retrieve/pii/S0378874112005570" target="_blank" data-ref="Redirecting" rel="noopener">[ref.</a>&nbsp;8]&nbsp;

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In another in vitro study, extracts from echinacea plants (Echinacea purpurea, Echinacea angustifolia, and Echinacea pallida) killed human pancreatic and colon cancer cells by stimulating a process called apoptosis, or controlled cell death. &nbsp;<a href="https://linkinghub.elsevier.com/retrieve/pii/S0378874106004624" target="_blank" data-ref="Redirecting" rel="noopener">[ref. 9]</a>&nbsp; This effect is believed to be due to the immunostimulating properties of echinacea and its active ingredients.&nbsp;

Echinacea-May-Help-Treat-Skin-Problems

Echinacea May Help Treat Skin Problems 

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Research shows that echinacea plants can help treat common skin problems.

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In an in vitro study, scientists found that the anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties of echinacea inhibited the growth of Propionibacterium, a common cause of acne.&nbsp;

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In another study in 10 healthy people aged 25-40, skin care products containing echinacea extract were found to improve skin hydration and reduce wrinkles. Similarly, a cream containing echinacea purpurea extract has been shown to improve eczema symptoms and help restore the thin protective outer layer of the skin. &nbsp;<a href="https://linkinghub.elsevier.com/retrieve/pii/S0923181116310258" target="_blank" data-ref="Redirecting" rel="noopener">[ref. 10]</a>&nbsp;

Potential-Side-Effects-of-Echinacea-Use

Potential Side Effects of Echinacea Use 

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Echinacea products look safe and are well tolerated for short-term use. As with any other natural remedy, there are cases of side effects that occur rarely. They can be:

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<ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Rashes</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Itchy skin</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Hives</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Swelling</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Stomach pain</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Nausea</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Shortness of breath</li></ul>However, these side effects are more common in people with allergies to other flowers, such as daisies (Leucanthemum vulgare), chrysanthemums (Chrysanthemum), calendula (Calendula), ragweed&nbsp; (Ambrosia) and others.

Echinacea-dosage-information

Echinacea dosage information 

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For dehydrated powders (including encapsulated echinacea), Echinacea purpuera is usually used and oral doses above 300 mg are taken. three times a day (900 mg daily) and 500 mg. three times a day (1500 mg daily).

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Tinctures of ethanol extract from aboveground parts (leaves and stems) are used in a concentration of 2.5 ml. three times a day or up to 10 ml. Daily.

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There is not much evidence as to whether these are the optimal doses and studies are so far mixed in terms of quantities due to lack of standardization.

One of the many beneficial natural remedies, echinacea improves immunity, blood sugar, anxiety, counteracts inflammation and promotes skin health. There is evidence that echinacea can act as anti-cancer agent. Human-based research is still too limited, and it is necessary to investigate more thoroughly what are the exact effective doses for various health conditions.&nbsp;

Echinacea: Health Benefits, Medicinal Properties and Side Effects 

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Бетина Цветкова

Author: Rositsa Tashkova, Master of Molecular Biology and Microbiology

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Nothing spoils the mood in spring and summer as annoying biting insects - which seem to fly on swarms to draw on our blood. However, itching is our smallest problem - mosquitoes and ticks are insidious in that they transmit dangerous diseases.

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Ticks carry the following dangerous (deadly) diseases:

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<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Lyme disease;</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Tick encephalitis;</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Q-fever;</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Hemorrhagic fever with kidney syndrome;</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever;</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Marseilles fever and others.</li>
</ul>

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Mosquitoes carry very dangerous diseases such as:

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<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Malaria;</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">West Nile fever;</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Dengue;</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Yellow fever.</li>
</ul>

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Among the most effective repellents against these insects are chemical ones containing the substances DEET (N,N-diethyl-3-methylbenzamide, formerly known as N,N-diethyl-m-toluamide) or icaridin (picaridin), but they are not always suitable for use.

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DEET may show neurotoxicity in its use in combination with sunscreen and is not recommended in pregnant women unless it is extremely necessary and the risks of infection are greater than the risk of the chemical's effects on the foetus. It cannot be used in children under 2 years of age.

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Plant-based repellents are the alternative to chemical repellents (although their action, of course, is also due to chemicals ;) ). In the following lines we will consider which plants and substances from them offer protection against mosquitoes, ticks, and in some cases flies and biting midges. [<a href="https://www.bioseek.eu/en/eng/research/pubmed/Chemical_and_Plant_Based_Insect_Repellents_Efficacy_Safety_and_Toxicity_26827259" target="_blank" rel="noopener">ref.1</a>]

Lemon-scented-Gum-Tree-or-Lemon-Eucalyptus-Oil

Lemon-scented Gum Tree or Lemon Eucalyptus Oil

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The effect of lemon eucalyptus (Corymbia citriodora or Eucalyptus citriodora) is due to the substance p-mint-3,8-diol. It offers good protection against mosquitoes and ticks, which lasts up to 2 hours, protecting better from ticks compared to DEET. Also protects against biting midges.

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At home, a mixture of 1 part lemon eucalyptus oil and 10 parts of sunflower oil can be prepared. Apply as a spray.

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Not suitable for children under 3 years and sufferers of atopic dermatitis.

Permethrin

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The substance is derived from crushed dried colors of Dalmatian chrysanthemum (Chrysanthemum cinerarifolium). It is highly effective against mosquitoes, ticks, fleas and biting midges, but it is applied to clothes, nets, sleeping bags, and not on the skin. It does not damage the fabrics of clothes and plastics. It is necessary to re-apply it only after 5-10 or more laundry cycles.

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It is even more effective when used in combination with other repellents that are put on the skin. In direct contact, it causes insect paralysis, leading to its death.

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Unfortunately, mosquito resistance to permethrin has been observed in recent years.

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Citronella

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It is extracted from lemongrass (Cymbopogon spp.) and offers weak protection only against mosquitoes for up to 2 hours. Its activity is due to the substance 3,7-dimethyloct-6-en-1-al. It is used in the form of candles, oil or lotion.

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It can damage clothes and cause irritation on the skin, eyes or cause an allergy.

Essential-Oils

Essential Oils

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The most effective essential oils against mosquitoes are [ <a href="https://www.bioseek.eu/en/eng/research/pubmed/Plant_based_insect_repellents_a_review_of_their_efficacy_development_and_testing_21411012" target="_blank" rel="noopener">ref.2</a>]:

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<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">thyme oil (Thymus vulgaris),</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">geraniol,</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">mint oil</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">cedar oil,</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">patchouli (Pogostemon cablin),</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">cloves (Syzygium aromaticum).</li>
</ul>

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Their activity varies between 60 and 180 minutes, since most of these essential oils are highly volatile and soon evaporate. This problem can be solved by using fixatives or careful formulation to improve durability.

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It should be considered that essential oils can irritate the skin and their repellent effect is variable depending on the formulation and concentration. The combination of essential oil and sun can lead to further irritation of the skin. Essential oils are never used directly on the skin undiluted, but always in combination with a carrier oil.

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How-To-Relieve-Itching-From-Bites

How To Relieve Itching From Bites

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Besides hydrocortisone cream from the pharmacy or calamine lotion, there are several homemade remedies that you can try to relieve unpleasant itching from bites:

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<ul>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Put a piece of raw onions on the site of the bite;</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Put freshly chopped garlic on the bite;</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Rub apple cider vinegar on the affected skin;</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Smear the bite with a paste of baking soda and water;</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Put on a cold compress;</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Place a chilled used bag of chamomile tea on the spot;</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Smear the bite with thyme tea;</li>
<li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Smear the bite with a pre-prepared extract of St. John's wort in olive oil.</li>
</ul>

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If nothing helps, just try to focus your attention on something else and avoid scratching, because it will lead to skin damage and potential infection, as well as slower resolution of itching and discomfort.

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Nature offers several effective means to prevent attacks by mosquitoes, ticks and other bloodsuckers carrying severe diseases. However, in areas with a high prevalence of these infections, it is advisable to use chemical repellents such as DEET, which give greater certainty and long-lasting effect. This is especially true when travelling in some more exotic destinations.

chrysanthemum

Echinacea: Health Benefits, Medicinal Properties and Side Effects

How To Get Rid Of Mosquitoes And Ticks And Stop The Itching With Natural Remedies