Chrysanthemum Morifolium Extract
Also known as: Chrysanthemum morifolium Ramat., Florist's chrysanthemum, Hardy garden mum, Chrysanthemum flower extract, CME, Chrysanthemum morifolium
Overview
Chrysanthemum morifolium extract is derived from the flowers of the chrysanthemum plant, a botanical widely recognized in traditional Chinese medicine for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties. This herbal supplement is rich in bioactive compounds, primarily flavonoids such as cynaroside, apigenin, and vitexin, along with terpenoids and phenylpropanoids. It is commonly explored for its potential in supporting eye health, offering cardiovascular protection, and exhibiting antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects. While research is ongoing, most of the current evidence stems from in vitro studies, animal models, and a limited number of small-scale human trials. The overall research maturity is moderate, with a growing body of preclinical data, but comprehensive systematic reviews and meta-analyses specifically on C. morifolium extract's clinical efficacy are still emerging.
Benefits
Chrysanthemum morifolium extract demonstrates several evidence-based benefits, primarily driven by its rich phytochemical profile. It exhibits strong antioxidant activity, with in vitro studies showing potent free radical scavenging capacity, largely attributed to flavonoids like cynaroside and apigenin. This suggests a role in mitigating oxidative stress. For retinal protection, an in vitro study on ARPE-19 retinal cells indicated that the extract significantly improved cell viability after light-induced damage and reduced reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, suggesting potential in age-related macular degeneration (AMD), though human clinical evidence is needed. Cardioprotective effects have been observed in animal studies, where C. morifolium extract reduced doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity by suppressing apoptosis markers (p53, caspase-3/9) and improving cardiac function in mice, pointing to its potential in protecting against chemotherapy-related heart damage. Additionally, review evidence supports its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, suggesting that its multiple bioactive compounds may synergize with conventional therapies. The strength of evidence varies, with strong preclinical data for antioxidant and cardioprotective effects, but clinical validation is largely pending.
How it works
The primary mechanism of action for Chrysanthemum morifolium extract's benefits revolves around its rich flavonoid content. Its antioxidant effects are attributed to these flavonoids' ability to scavenge free radicals and reduce oxidative stress within cells. In the context of cardioprotection, the extract's anti-apoptotic effects in cardiomyocytes involve the downregulation of pro-apoptotic proteins like p53 and cleaved caspases, thereby reducing programmed cell death. Its anti-inflammatory actions are believed to involve the modulation of inflammatory cytokines and various signaling pathways, although the specific molecular targets require further detailed elucidation. While the bioactive compounds are absorbed as flavonoid glycosides and aglycones, their detailed pharmacokinetics and precise interactions with human body systems are not yet fully characterized.
Side effects
The safety profile of Chrysanthemum morifolium extract appears favorable in preclinical models, with no significant toxicity reported at tested doses. However, human safety data are considerably limited, and no major adverse effects have been extensively documented in the available small-scale studies. Due to this lack of comprehensive human clinical data, potential interactions with other medications, particularly anticoagulants or drugs metabolized via oxidative pathways, have not been thoroughly investigated. Consequently, specific contraindications for its use and considerations for special populations (e.g., pregnant or breastfeeding individuals, children, or those with pre-existing medical conditions) remain largely undefined. Users should exercise caution and consult a healthcare professional, especially if taking other medications, until more robust clinical safety data become available.
Dosage
Currently, there are no established clinical dosing guidelines for Chrysanthemum morifolium extract due to the limited number of large-scale human trials. Preclinical animal studies have utilized doses such as 400 mg/kg/day orally for cardioprotection, but these findings cannot be directly extrapolated to human dosage recommendations. For consistency and efficacy, extract standardization based on its key bioactive compounds, such as flavonoid content (e.g., cynaroside), is recommended. The optimal timing of administration and specific formulation types (e.g., capsules, tinctures, teas) also require further research to determine their impact on absorption and bioavailability. Without clear human data, upper limits and safety thresholds for long-term use are not yet defined, emphasizing the need for caution and professional guidance.
FAQs
Is it effective for eye health?
Preliminary in vitro data suggest potential benefits for retinal protection by reducing cell damage and oxidative stress. However, clinical evidence in humans is currently lacking, and more research is needed.
Can it protect the heart during chemotherapy?
Promising animal data indicate it may prevent doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity by reducing cell apoptosis. Nevertheless, these findings require confirmation through human clinical trials.
Is it safe for daily use?
Human safety data are limited, with no major adverse effects reported in small studies. Caution is advised, and consultation with a healthcare professional is recommended until more evidence is available.
Does it have antimicrobial effects?
Yes, phytochemical analyses and review articles support its antimicrobial properties. However, the clinical relevance and efficacy in human infections still need further confirmation through dedicated studies.
Research Sources
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9414137/ – This in vitro study on ARPE-19 retinal cells demonstrated that Chrysanthemum morifolium extract significantly increased cell viability after light-induced damage and reduced reactive oxygen species (ROS) production. The findings suggest a potential protective effect against retinal damage, but further human studies are needed to confirm these benefits.
- https://www.ecrjournal.com/articles/chrysanthemum-morifolium-extract-prevents-development-doxorubicin-induced-heart-failure?language_content_entity=en – This animal study on C57BL6 mice showed that Chrysanthemum morifolium extract reduced doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity. It achieved this by suppressing apoptosis markers (p53, caspase-3/9) and improving cardiac function, indicating a potential role in protecting against chemotherapy-related heart damage in preclinical models.
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9866508/ – This research involved chemical profiling of Chrysanthemum morifolium extract, identifying key flavonoids and demonstrating strong antioxidant activity through DPPH and ABTS assays. While it provides robust analytical data on the extract's composition and in vitro antioxidant potential, it lacks clinical data on human efficacy.
- https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/pharmacology/articles/10.3389/fphar.2025.1538311/full – This narrative review summarizes the antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties of Chrysanthemum morifolium extract, highlighting its multi-target mechanisms. It provides a comprehensive overview of existing research but does not include a quantitative synthesis or meta-analysis of clinical trials.