Spoken of medicinally in The Canon of Materia Medica 神農本草經 by the physician of mythical stature, Shen Nong who is said to have lived in about 2,800 B.C., proclaimed that Ju Hua improved senses of vision and hearing, alertness, clarity of thinking, promoted an energetic body, and increased longevity by slowing aging. It is now wide-spread knowledge that Ju Hua pacifies the Liver and therefore brightens vision, while also relieving fever and vanquishing toxins.

Jing Ming 精明 translates to mean the brightness of the eyes, but also the essence of mind and emotions that is reflected through the eyes. Oriental medicine acknowledges the relationship between tissues and organs. The clarity and brightness [Jing Ming] of the eyes is a reflection of the Liver which imbues the capacity for observing direction – ‘inner vision’ as well as of the material world around; distinguishing black and white and examining far and near.

Chinese herb brews containing Ju Hua benefit heat-toxin ailments from airborne pathogens such as dander and pollen, and since most people suffer some form of chronic imbalance, with the advancing and shifting of influences of springtime, people may also feel tired and weak. Chronic ailments flare easily under these conditions. Ju Hua encourages suppleness of the Liver, subdues ascending Yang and extinguished wind-heat that irritates the clarity of the eyes.

 

Spring is a time to be rid of stagnant Qi, to appreciate budding energy and beauty, and to follow principles for renewal of spirit~mind~body.

In springtime, drink chrysanthemum tea for health.