Fall is here! According to Chinese medicine, Autumn relates to the metal element. It is a time for contracting and going inward. The Inner Classic reads: "The forces of autumn create dryness in Heaven and metal on Earth; they create the lung organ and the skin upon the body...and the nose, and the white color and the pungent flavor... the emotion grief, and the ability to make a weeping sound." In Chinese medicine, the respiratory system, skin, and large intestine are all a p

Chrysanthemum flower tea (ju hua cha) is perfect for helping to soothe allergy symptoms, especially itchy eyes. Chinese medicine herbalists consider ju hua to be one of the top herbs to benefit the eyes and clear heat, making it perfect for combating red, painful, itchy, teary, or dry eyes. If you’re really suffering, you can even brew up a cup, let it cool, and use the chrysanthemum tea as an eye wash or cool compress! Ju hua is also great for headaches, hypertension, and st