Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has used the chrysanthemum, a common decorative flower beloved for its aesthetic appeal and a variety of health advantages, for generations. Chrysanthemum has been used to treat a wide range of medical diseases, from respiratory ailments to hypertension, in its many forms. Chrysanthemum has a vast number of active substances, mainly flavonoids and phenolic acids, which have been associated with its many medicinal advantages. This essay attempts to enlighten readers on the characteristics of this plant, as well as any potential health advantages, ideal dose, adverse effects, possible drug interactions, and responsible use.
You May Also Like:
Neurotransmitter Balance Supplement vs Brilliance
Zizyphus: Benefits, Dosage, Side Effects, Drug Interactions, and Other Important Information
Chrysanthemum: Benefits, Dosage, Side Effects, Drug Interactions, and Other Important Information is an original (NootropicsPlanet) article.
Nature of Chrysanthemum
There are more than 30 species of chrysanthemum, which are members of the Asteraceae family. Chrysanthemum indicum and Chrysanthemum morifolium are the most researched species. Numerous active substances, including as flavonoids, phenolic acids, triterpenoids, and essential oils, make up its chemical composition. These substances have been shown to provide a variety of therapeutic benefits, adding to the plant’s overall pharmacological profile. Due to their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer characteristics, flavonoids and phenolic acids are considered to be very advantageous.
Health Benefits of Chrysanthemum
Chrysanthemum has been associated with a rising number of therapeutic and preventative health effects.
- Antioxidant and Anti-inflammatory Benefits: Strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties are provided by the phenolic chemicals and flavonoids found in chrysanthemums. They defend cells from oxidative damage, which is often linked to chronic illnesses including cancer and heart disease. They are also essential in controlling the inflammatory response, which may be advantageous in inflammatory illnesses.
- Cardiovascular Benefits: By lowering cholesterol and high blood pressure, chrysanthemum may enhance heart health. According to certain research, it aids in widening blood arteries, which improves blood flow and lowers blood pressure.
- Neuroprotective Benefits: Recent studies have shown that chrysanthemum may have neuroprotective properties. The blood-brain barrier can be crossed by flavonoids contained in chrysanthemums, which provide neuroprotection by lowering oxidative stress and inflammation in the brain and possibly preventing neurodegenerative disorders like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.
Chemistry of Chrysanthemum
Chrysanthemums have a diverse and complex chemical makeup that includes several bioactive chemicals. Due to their powerful medicinal capabilities, phenolic acids and flavonoids are the most prevalent and important of them. Numerous flavonoids, including acacetin, apigenin, luteolin, and chrysoeriol, as well as phenolic acids like chlorogenic acid and caffeic acid, may be found in chrysanthemums.
Terpenoids, which have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial qualities, and essential oils, which give the flower its characteristic scent, are other chemicals present in chrysanthemums. The monoterpenes and sesquiterpenes that make up most essential oils include camphor, borneol, and eucalyptol.
The effectiveness and use of Chrysanthemum are ultimately influenced by the composition, which varies by species, growth circumstances, and extraction technique.
Active Physiological Mechanisms of Chrysanthemum
For optimal usage, it is crucial to comprehend the processes behind the medicinal advantages of chrysanthemum.
- Antioxidant Mechanism: Chrysanthemum’s high flavonoid and phenolic acid content is principally responsible for the plant’s antioxidant action. These substances can neutralize free radicals by donating hydrogen atoms, shielding cells from oxidative harm. Additionally, flavonoids have the ability to chelate metal ions, which prevents the production of free radicals. The flavonoids and terpenoids found in chrysanthemum have strong anti-inflammatory properties. They stop the action of the enzymes cyclooxygenase and lipoxygenase, which are essential components of the pathways that trigger inflammatory responses. Chrysanthemum aids in lowering the generation of pro-inflammatory mediators such prostaglandins and leukotrienes by blocking these enzymes.
- Cardiovascular Mechanism: By causing vasodilation and lowering blood pressure, chrysanthemum may improve cardiovascular health. Nitric oxide (NO), a crucial regulator of vascular tone, is assumed to be released by the endothelium of blood arteries, mediating this vasodilation. Additionally, low-density lipoprotein (LDL), a crucial component in the formation of atherosclerosis, may be inhibited from oxidizing because to the antioxidant qualities of chrysanthemum. Recent research suggests that chrysanthemum possesses neuroprotective properties, perhaps as a result of its flavonoid concentration. By lowering oxidative stress and inflammation in the brain and thereby protecting neurons, flavonoids may pass across the blood-brain barrier. According to certain research, they could also affect memory- and learning-related signaling pathways, thereby helping to treat neurodegenerative illnesses.
Optimal Dosage of Chrysanthemum
The ideal dose of chrysanthemum as a dietary supplement varies considerably, mostly dependent on the particular health issue being treated and the form in which it is ingested (tea, capsules, or tinctures). However, 3-6 grams of dried chrysanthemum flower per day, often ingested as tea, is a normal dose that is advised for overall wellbeing. It’s crucial to speak with a healthcare professional to determine the best dose based on your unique health needs and situations.
Side Effects of Chrysanthemum
When used properly, chrysanthemum is usually regarded as safe for eating. It might, however, have unwanted consequences in some people, such as allergic responses, rashes, or gastrointestinal problems including nausea and diarrhea. If you happen to be allergic to Asteraceae plants, you should approach Chrysanthemum use with abundant caution.
Potential Substance Interactions
Chrysanthemum is generally harmless, however any interactions with other drugs need to be taken into account.
The plant has been shown to possess antiplatelet characteristics, and when combined with anticoagulants like warfarin or aspirin, it may increase the risk of bleeding. Due to its vasodilating effects, it could potentially interact with drugs used to treat high blood pressure. Before beginning any regimen including Chrysanthemum, patients who are currently taking any prescription should speak with their doctor.
Responsible Usage
It’s important to utilize Chrysanthemum sensibly, just as you would with any nutritional supplement. People should speak with their doctor before starting any supplement program, especially if they have any pre-existing medical issues, are on medication, are pregnant, or are nursing. It is also advised to assess health problems regularly and any adverse effects.
The excellent medicinal potential of chrysanthemum includes a variety of health advantages, from anti-inflammatory actions to neuroprotective effects. The suggested dose, potential adverse effects, and potential drug interactions should all be taken into consideration while using this nutritional supplement, as with all others. Future studies are necessary to clarify its precise mechanisms of action and provide more consistent dose recommendations, increasing its advantages and lowering any hazards.
Chrysanthemum: Conclusion
Beyond just acting as a delicate and beautiful accent flower, Chrysanthemum can be a terrific herbal remedy and relief agent for high blood pressure, angina, type 2 diabetes, cold symptoms, dizziness, and inflammation, making it both fashionable and functional.
Remember, as with any naturally occurring or synthesized supplement, you should seek guidance and affirmation from your doctor. They will be able to help you anticipate your body’s response and gain from introducing certain supplements into your diet.
With that, you should now be equipped with a functional understanding of the health benefits of Chrysanthemum and the benefits it can yield in your nutrition and lifestyle.
References:
- “Chrysanthemum Indicum” Retrieved From: https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/pharmacology-toxicology-and-pharmaceutical-science/chrysanthemum-indicum
- “Flavonoids: an overview.” Retrieved From: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5465813/
- “The Health Benefits OF Chrysanthemum Flowers” Retrieved from: https://www.boydsflowers.com/blog/health-benefits-chrysanthemum-flowers/#:~:text=In%20traditional%20medicine%2C%20chrysanthemums%20have,a%20person’s%20sensitivity%20to%20insulin.
Important Note: The information contained in this article is for general informational purposes only, and should not be construed as health or medical advice, nor is it intended to diagnose, prevent, treat, or cure any disease or health condition. Before embarking on any diet, fitness regimen, or program of nutritional supplementation, it is advisable to consult your healthcare professional in order to determine its safety and probable efficacy in terms of your individual state of health.
Regarding Nutritional Supplements Or Other Non-Prescription Health Products: If any nutritional supplements or other non-prescription health products are mentioned in the foregoing article, any claims or statements made about them have not been evaluated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, and such nutritional supplements or other health products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
