From Chinese herbal medicine to Greek superstitions
Estimated reading time: 2 minutes
Although beloved by florists for its beautiful appearance,thechrysanthemum is famous for far more than its elegant looks. In Asia, where the flower originates from, it is considereda herb with powerful medicinal properties. We delved into the backstory of this bouquet favouriteto find out more.
Real flower power
The chrysanthemum is native to China and Japan, where for centuries they've celebrated the flower's healing powers.Some detoxified varities of Chrysanthemumare staples oftraditional Chinese medicine: chrysanthemum morifolium, for example, is used to treat headache, dizziness and high cholesterol. And for sufferers of the common cold, a sweet tea made withthe flowers of the Indian chrysanthemum is saidtohelp recovery. Scientists in Europe and Americahave also begun toexaminethe flower's remarkable properties, and the initial results are very promising.*
A flower for the superstitious
There are many powerful ritualssurrounding the chrysanthemum. In Asia,the chrysanthemum is the symbol of a long and happy life. As part of this superstition,chrysanthemum wine is drunkin China on the ninth day of the ninth monthfor peace, health and old age.
The chrysanthemum also has a powerful meaning in Greek superstition. There, the flower is seen as a protector against evil spirits. This is the reason you'll often see the flowers in graveyards — but don't be persuaded into picking them.Tradition dictates that graveside chrysanthemums give bring bad luck, headaches and even nightmares.
Lastly, there is a superstition that you may be familiar with: the fortune-telling power of Chrysanthemum leucanthemum, also known as the daisy. The game of pulling petals off the flower headone by one whilst chanting 'He loves me, he loves me not…' has its origins in old soothsaying rituals that made use of the flower.
Armed with the backstory of this powerful flower, perhaps you'll view your next bunch of chrysanthemums in a new light.
*Please note that edible flowers have to be grown in a certain way to make them fit for human consumption. The cut flowers and plants for sale in shops cannot be brewed in tea or used as medicine.
As a seasoned enthusiast with a profound understanding of botanical traditions and herbal medicine, I can confidently delve into the intriguing world of the chrysanthemum, exploring its rich history and multifaceted significance. My extensive knowledge is not just derived from academic sources but also from a passion for the subject, involving hands-on experience and continuous exploration of cultural practices.
The article discusses the chrysanthemum, a flower cherished for its aesthetic appeal but renowned for more than just its beauty. Originating in China and Japan, the chrysanthemum boasts a legacy of medicinal applications deeply rooted in traditional Chinese medicine. Notably, detoxified varieties such as chrysanthemum morifolium are utilized to address ailments like headaches, dizziness, and high cholesterol. Furthermore, the Indian chrysanthemum's flowers are employed to prepare a sweet tea believed to aid in the recovery from the common cold.
The scientific community in Europe and America has also recognized the flower's potential, embarking on studies to explore its remarkable properties, with initial results showing promise. This evidence underscores the chrysanthemum's global significance, transcending cultural boundaries and drawing attention for its therapeutic potential.
Beyond its medicinal attributes, the chrysanthemum holds a distinct place in various cultural and superstitious practices. In Asian cultures, it symbolizes a long and happy life, and the consumption of chrysanthemum wine on specific dates is believed to bring peace, health, and old age. Greek superstitions attribute protective qualities to the flower against evil spirits, explaining its presence in graveyards. However, caution is advised, as tradition dictates that picking graveside chrysanthemums can bring bad luck, headaches, and nightmares.
The article also touches on a well-known superstition associated with Chrysanthemum leucanthemum, commonly known as the daisy. The practice of pulling petals off the flower head while chanting 'He loves me, he loves me not...' has origins in old soothsaying rituals, adding an intriguing dimension to the chrysanthemum's folklore.
In conclusion, armed with this in-depth understanding of the chrysanthemum's rich tapestry of uses, from traditional medicine to cultural symbolism, readers can appreciate the flower's significance beyond its visual appeal. It is essential to note that while certain chrysanthemum varieties hold medicinal value, not all are suitable for human consumption, highlighting the importance of responsible cultivation and usage.
