Peppermint, Chrysanthemum, and Goji Berry: Ancient Wisdom Meets Modern Science in Herbal Medicine

In my practice—and in my own kitchen—there are a few herbs I return to again and again. Peppermint, chrysanthemum, and goji berry are three of them. On their own, each of these herbs offers powerful support for the body, mind, and spirit. But together, they form a synergy that spans Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and modern biochemistry.

This post is an invitation to get to know them—not just as ingredients in a cup of tea, but as medicinal allies that speak the language of both ancient wisdom and contemporary science.

Peppermint (Bo He)

In TCM:

In Chinese medicine, peppermint is classified as an aromatic herb that "releases the exterior" and "clears heat." It's often used for early-stage colds, headaches, sore throat, eye discomfort, and stagnant Liver Qi. Peppermint is light, dispersing, and uplifting. It opens the Lungs, moves the Liver, and supports the Large Intestine by gently promoting peristalsis.

From a Five Element perspective, peppermint primarily engages the Metal and Wood elements—Lung (LU), Large Intestine (LI), and Liver (LR). These organs together govern inspiration, release, and vision. When those functions stagnate, peppermint is the herbal nudge that says, "Let’s move."

In Biomedicine:

Peppermint (Mentha x piperita) contains active constituents like menthol, menthone, and rosmarinic acid. These compounds exhibit antispasmodic, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and carminative effects. Menthol, in particular, acts on cold-sensitive TRPM8 receptors, producing a cooling sensation and mild analgesia.

Clinical studies have shown peppermint oil to be effective in managing irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), tension headaches, and even upper respiratory congestion. In other words, science is affirming what TCM has long known: peppermint moves Qi, relieves pain, and clears heat.

Chrysanthemum (Ju Hua)

In TCM:

Chrysanthemum is cooling and light. Traditionally used to clear Liver heat, brighten the eyes, and calm internal wind, it has a special affinity for the Liver channel. Emotional tension, anger, red eyes, blurry vision, and frontal headaches are all classic indications for chrysanthemum.

It's often paired with goji berry in Taoist longevity formulas, where the flower softens and clears heat while the berry nourishes and strengthens.

In Biomedicine:

Chrysanthemum morifolium contains flavonoids (luteolin, apigenin), volatile oils, and triterpenoids. These compounds contribute to its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antipyretic, and hepatoprotective effects. Animal studies have shown chrysanthemum extracts to reduce oxidative stress and modulate immune responses.

Its traditional use for eye health is validated by its ability to protect retinal cells from oxidative damage—a function we now associate with preventing age-related macular degeneration.

Goji Berry (Gou Qi Zi)

In TCM:

Goji berry is a yin tonic. It nourishes the Liver and Kidney, builds the Blood, and moistens the Lungs. Sweet and neutral in nature, goji is considered a food-grade tonic suitable for long-term use.

In the context of the emotional body, goji supports resilience, nourishes vision (literally and metaphorically), and acts as a gentle grounding force. It's often prescribed to address fatigue, dizziness, blurry vision, dry eyes, and a scattered mind.

In Biomedicine:

Goji berries (Lycium barbarum) are rich in polysaccharides, carotenoids (notably zeaxanthin), flavonoids, and betaine. These compounds offer antioxidant, immunomodulatory, and neuroprotective benefits.

Goji’s effects on vision are well-supported in the literature—especially its high levels of zeaxanthin, which protects the retina. Additionally, its polysaccharides have been shown to support immune function and improve mitochondrial health.

Herb Pairings and Synergy

Peppermint + Chrysanthemum:

This is a classic pairing for clearing heat, especially when it rises to the head. Think headaches, red or itchy eyes, or tension that feels "stuck in your head." Peppermint moves, chrysanthemum clears—together they help disperse excess and restore flow.

Chrysanthemum + Goji:

Used together for centuries in Taoist and TCM formulas, this duo is known for its ability to balance Liver heat while nourishing the Blood and Yin. Chrysanthemum cools and clarifies; goji nourishes and stabilizes. Great for vision issues, stress, and long-term vitality.

Peppermint + Goji:

Less common as a classical pair, but surprisingly effective. Peppermint's upward, dispersing energy is balanced by goji’s grounding sweetness. Used together, they can open the Lungs while also supporting the Spleen and Liver—a helpful combo for modern stress patterns that involve overthinking, shallow breath, and Liver Qi stagnation.

The Trio Together

When these three herbs are combined, something elegant happens:

• Peppermint gets things moving.
• Chrysanthemum clears the excess.
• Goji nourishes the deficiency.

You get movement without depletion. Clarity without collapse. Uplift without overstimulation.

From a TCM standpoint, this blend engages the Metal and Wood elements, balancing the Lung, Liver, and Large Intestine. From a biomedical view, the trio supports inflammation regulation, digestion, vision, immunity, and mood.

These herbs aren’t just complimentary—they’re synergistic. Each one fills in the gaps the others leave open. They support both acute symptoms and long-term resilience.

Summary

Peppermint, chrysanthemum, and goji berry each offer something unique: movement, clarity, and nourishment. Together, they support the Lung, Liver, and Large Intestine—organs that govern breath, vision, and release.

Their synergy is confirmed not only by thousands of years of Traditional Chinese Medicine, but also by modern research into their biochemical and pharmacological properties.

Whether you're addressing stress, digestive tension, visual fatigue, or emotional stagnation—these three herbs offer a grounded, elegant approach to restoring flow.

Closing Thoughts

I return to these herbs again and again—not because they’re trendy, but because they work. Their flavors, energies, and actions harmonize in a way that feels both ancient and deeply current.

They remind me that healing doesn’t always have to be complicated. Sometimes it starts with a few dried plants in hot water.

If this post resonates with you, or if you’re curious about how to work with herbs in your daily life, follow me on Instagram and TikTok @skoaching. I share practices, insights, and tools for slowing down and tuning in.

Here’s to your breath, your vision, and your flow.

—Ryan