How to Handle Fresh Wild Chrysanthemums
In the mid-autumn season, wild chrysanthemums bloom all over the mountains and fields, competing for beauty. This plant, which has both ornamental and medicinal value, is deeply loved by the public. But how to properly handle fresh wild chrysanthemums? Is it safe to pick and steep them directly in water? This article will provide a detailed analysis of the complete process of processing and preserving wild chrysanthemums and reveal the secrets of brewing chrysanthemum tea.
The Core Four Steps of Handling Wild Chrysanthemums
Raw Material Selection and Initial Processing
After collection, immediately remove weeds and stones, and gently rinse the gaps between petals with running water. Special attention should be paid to spreading them on bamboo screens for natural draining, with a pile thickness not exceeding 3 centimeters to avoid mold caused by heat and humidity. It is recommended to complete the initial processing of chrysanthemums picked in the morning on the same day.
Traditional Steaming Process
Use a bamboo steamer with a diameter of 35 cm, placing 1.2-1.5 pounds of fresh flowers in each steamer. The water level in the steamer should be kept 5 cm from the bottom of the steamer. Place the steamer in after the water boils and steam at high heat for 4 minutes and 30 seconds until the petals are translucent. Professional tea makers suggest changing the water every three steamers to avoid residue affecting the flavor.
Scientific Drying Method
After steaming, spread the chrysanthemums on bamboo mats, turning them over three times a day for the first three days, then switch to once in the morning and once in the evening. When the environmental humidity is below 60%, the drying can be completed in 7 days. For making dry flower decorations, hang them in a cool and well-ventilated place, and using a dehumidifier can reduce the shaping time to 10 days.
Guide to Drinking Wild Chrysanthemum Tea
Attention Points for Brewing Fresh Chrysanthemums
Select golden buds about 1 cm in diameter, rinse them under running water, and soak them in salt water for 15 minutes. It is recommended to use 90°C hot water, and pairing with wolfberries or hawthorns can neutralize the cold nature. It's best to drink immediately after brewing, and finish within 2 hours.
Storage and Compatibility Taboos
Dried wild chrysanthemums need to be sealed and refrigerated, with the best taste period being 6 months. People with a weak and cold constitution are advised to pair with 3 slices of ginger, and not to exceed 500 ml of consumption per day. Pregnant women, women during their menstrual period, and people with allergic constitutions should use with caution.
Through systematic processing, wild chrysanthemums can not only be made into health tea drinks but also used as natural dried flower decorations. Mastering the correct method can maximize the retention of their effective ingredients, allowing this mountain spirit flower to truly protect health.