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Kitchen Traditions

Chrysanthemum and Mint Tea

Whether it's the heat of summer, the glare of a computer screen, or the tension of a long, stressful day, this classic two-ingredient tea is one of the most refreshing and effective home remedies in the East Asian wellness tradition. It is bright, floral, cooling, and deeply pleasant to drink — and it has been trusted for centuries for good reason.

This recipe page includes ingredients, step-by-step preparation, and related herb links so readers can move from one kitchen idea into clearer ingredient context.

A floral tea illustration with chrysanthemum and mint.

Why It Works: Tradition Meets Science

Chrysanthemum Flower (Chrysanthemum morifolium) is used in traditional Chinese wellness practice to "Clear Wind-Heat and Brighten the Eyes." It is one of the most important herbs for addressing the red, dry, irritated eyes and headaches associated with Liver Heat and Wind-Heat. Modern research has confirmed that chrysanthemum contains luteolin, apigenin, and chlorogenic acid — flavonoids with potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that have been specifically studied in the context of eye health and neuroprotection.

Peppermint (Mentha × piperita) is used to "Disperse Wind-Heat and Clear the Head." Its primary active compound, menthol, activates cold-sensitive receptors in the skin and mucous membranes, creating an immediate sensation of cooling and freshness. Research has confirmed menthol's ability to improve airflow perception, reduce headache intensity when applied topically, and support digestive comfort by relaxing the smooth muscles of the gastrointestinal tract.

Together, chrysanthemum's gentle, sustained cooling action and mint's immediate, refreshing coolness create a tea that is greater than the sum of its parts.

Recipe basics

Ingredients

Yield: 2 cups | Prep: 5 min | Total: 10 min

  • 1 tablespoon dried chrysanthemum flowers (Chrysanthemum morifolium), white or yellow variety
  • 1 tablespoon fresh peppermint leaves or 1 teaspoon dried (Mentha × piperita)
  • 2 cups (500 ml) filtered water
  • Honey or rock sugar to taste (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon goji berries (Lycium barbarum), optional, adds sweetness and eye-support

Step by step

How to make it

  1. Bring 2 cups of water to just below a boil (approximately 185°F / 85°C). Avoid a full rolling boil, which can destroy the delicate aromatic compounds in both herbs.
  2. Place the chrysanthemum flowers and mint leaves in a teapot or heatproof cup.
  3. Pour the hot water over the herbs and steep for 3-5 minutes. Do not over-steep, as this can make the tea bitter.
  4. Strain into a cup. Add goji berries if using (they can be eaten after drinking the tea).
  5. Sweeten lightly with honey if desired. Serve warm or allow to cool to room temperature.

Serving notes

Keep it simple

  • This tea is best enjoyed in the afternoon, particularly after prolonged screen time or during a hot day.
  • It can also be served chilled as an iced tea.
  • For a more substantial 'eye-brightening' blend, add a small handful of goji berries and a few cassia seeds.

Caution

Read this recipe in context

  • Because both chrysanthemum and mint are cooling herbs, this tea is not recommended for individuals with a "Cold" constitution — those who feel chronically cold, have loose stools, and low energy. It is specifically suited for "Heat" conditions. Individuals with known allergies to plants in the Asteraceae family (such as ragweed) should exercise caution with chrysanthemum.

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