Flowers of the chrysanthemum.
Why it’s used: Traditionally used in Asian practice for skin and scalp.
The chrysanthemum used in Asian practice is Chrysanthemum morifolium, known in Chinese as ju hua. Its small yellow or white flowers have been dried and brewed into a fragrant, caffeine-free tea in China for thousands of years, and over the centuries they have also been used to make wine, congee and cakes.
In traditional Chinese practice chrysanthemum is classed as a cool, light herb, and it is traditionally used in Asian practice for skin and scalp, as well as for the eyes and for cooling the body in hot weather. It is listed in the Chinese pharmacopoeia and remains a popular drink across China and Japan. In skin and hair care you will see it on labels as Chrysanthemum morifolium flower extract, often alongside other Asian botanicals.
The flowers are rich in polyphenols and flavonoids, particularly luteolin and its glucosides, along with chlorogenic acids. Laboratory studies have investigated their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity, and a 2025 laboratory study found chrysanthemum flower extracts did not cause skin irritation or sensitisation in standard tests. Clinical studies in people are still needed.
3 findings behind this ingredient. Hover a card for the detail and the source.
Laboratory and mouse study. The extract restored viability of UVB-exposed human skin cells by activating antioxidant pathways, and in UVB-exposed mice it improved skin hydration, collagen organisation and epidermal thickening.
Study in female hairless mice exposed to UVB. Chrysanthemum morifolium 'Hangju' flower extract in the diet raised skin moisture, reduced wrinkle formation and epidermal thickening, and increased collagen density.
Cell study using keratinocytes and pigment cells. Chrysanthemum morifolium extract showed free radical scavenging, and combined with a vitamin C derivative it reduced delayed UVA-induced DNA damage more than the vitamin C derivative alone.
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Yes. Chrysanthemum tea is made from dried flowers rather than tea leaves, so it is naturally caffeine-free. It has been drunk in China for thousands of years and is a popular alternative to black or green tea.
Chrysanthemum is traditionally used in Asian practice for skin and scalp. In modern formulas it appears as a flower extract, valued for its flavonoids such as luteolin, which laboratory studies have explored for antioxidant activity.
Yes. Chrysanthemum is in the daisy family, along with ragweed, chamomile and marigold. People sensitive to these plants can react, usually with skin irritation or hay fever-like symptoms. Patch test new products and stop if you notice a reaction.
Information only, not medical advice. If you take medication, are pregnant or breastfeeding, speak to your GP or pharmacist first.
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