Different form its use as an attractive flower or horticulture purposes in Europe, chrysanthemum of the Composite family, in particular its flower has been used as a traditional medicine ins several Asian countries, such as China, Korea and Japan for several centuries.The flower of Chrysanthemum morifolium Ramat, owing to its broad pharmacological effect as well as its fragrance, is also used as a beverage - chrysanthemum tea.
C. morifolium Ramat is widely distributed in most habitats of China as well as Korea and Japan,
In China, it is cultivated mainly in Zhejiang province along the Yangtze River.
Although the components of chrysanthemum may vary slightly according to the different cultivation environments, the flowers are processed using a similar method.
The plants are usually grown in early spring and the flowers harvested in autumn of each year.
After steam treatment the flowers are dried under the sun and then packed into an airtight plastic bag to prevent absorption of moisture.
New technology, such as microwave sterilization and drying, has been used to enhance the production process and improve quality.
Chrysanthemum morifolium Ramat
