Basic Introduction to Huangshan Tribute Chrysanthemum
Huangshan Tribute Chrysanthemum, also known as “tribute chrysanthemum” or “Huizhou tribute chrysanthemum,” is a traditional Han ethnic product of Huangshan City. It is one of the four famous Chinese chrysanthemums, alongside Hangzhou chrysanthemum, Chuzhou chrysanthemum, and Bozhou chrysanthemum. It was named “tribute chrysanthemum” because it was offered as a tribute to emperors in ancient times. It is widely produced in the vast areas of Huangshan City, Anhui Province, primarily in Jinzhu Village, She County, between the famous tourist destination Mount Huang Scenic Area and the national nature reserve Qiaoliang Peak. Grown in a unique natural ecological environment, this chrysanthemum boasts excellent quality, integrating color, aroma, taste, and form. It is both ornamental and medicinal, praised as an excellent choice for medicinal and drinking purposes. It is a well-known specialty of Huangshan, enjoying a reputation at home and abroad.
Nutritional Value
“Huangshan Tribute Chrysanthemum” can treat common colds, carbuncles and sores, high blood pressure, and arteriosclerosis. Combined with other herbs, it can be used to make over-the-counter drugs like Sangju Cold Tablets and chrysanthemum Drinks. It can be steeped in Tea or wine, and regular consumption can “purify the five organs and detoxify the body,” contributing to longevity and beauty. Used chrysanthemum flowers, when dried, can be filled into pillows to provide a cooling effect that reduces fire, improves eyesight, and clears the mind.
Chrysanthemums have long been known as the flower of longevity and anti-aging due to their components that help fight aging and promote the breakdown and excretion of cholesterol. Their beauty benefits include: improving blood circulation, nourishing the skin, clearing the head and eyes, and enhancing complexion. They are beneficial for hair care as well.
Product Characteristics
Huangshan Tribute Chrysanthemum stands out from other chrysanthemum varieties with its unique quality and processing methods. Its flowers are white, with green stems and small yellow centers, evenly formed without scattered petals. The texture is soft, the aroma pleasant, and the taste slightly sweet and bitter. It has been honored as the “crown of chrysanthemums” and “national treasure” by the “Chinese Pharmacopoeia.” Alongside Chuzhou chrysanthemum, Hangzhou white chrysanthemum, and Bozhou chrysanthemum, it is considered one of the four famous chrysanthemums.
History and Folklore
Huangshan Tribute Chrysanthemum is a superior variety selected from chrysanthemums, appreciated for both its ornamental value and medicinal properties. According to local Han folklore, “Huangshan Tribute Chrysanthemum” was originally introduced by Huizhou merchants from Deqing County, Zhejiang Province, as an ornamental art chrysanthemum. During a severe drought, many people suffered from red eye and headache. Some tried using fresh chrysanthemums to make a cooling Drink, which proved very effective. Since then, people frequently brewed fresh or dried chrysanthemums to treat redness of the eyes, irritability, and other ailments. As a result, chrysanthemums became widely cultivated around homes in this area. To preserve them for longer periods, they were specially dried.
During the reign of Emperor Guangxu in the Qing Dynasty, red eye disease spread through the Forbidden City in Beijing. The emperor issued an edict seeking renowned physicians and effective medicines. The governor of Huizhou Prefecture presented dried Huizhou chrysanthemums, and after the imperial courtiers drank the brew, their eye ailments were cured. Consequently, Huizhou chrysanthemum gained great renown and was honored as “tribute chrysanthemum.”
Tasting and Preparation Methods for Huangshan Tribute Chrysanthemum
1. Take 5-8 Huangshan Tribute Chrysanthemum flowers and place them in a glass cup of about 200 ml capacity.
2. Add boiling water (100 degrees Celsius) to fill the cup about 7/8 full, cover, and steep for 3-5 minutes before drinking while still hot.
3. When about 1/3 of the tea remains, add more boiling water to maintain a consistent flavor throughout.
4. Use purified water for brewing.
Notes:
1. Huangshan Tribute Chrysanthemum should always be brewed with water around 100 degrees Celsius.
2. If the water is alkaline, the chrysanthemum broth will turn green, as the flower pigments dissolve in the water! This won't happen with purified water!
3. After adding boiling water, gently shake the cup to allow the flowers to sink, avoiding contact with air as much as possible. This ensures a pure color in the infusion.