Snow Chrysanthemum is a pollution-free, pure, natural chrysanthemum that thrives in the cold, high-altitude regions of the snowy plateau. It grows in an unpolluted, natural environment and is hand-picked and handcrafted. This makes it an absolute treasure among chrysanthemum teas. Not only does it boast a bright, rich color similar to aged Pu’er tea or red wine, with an enticing aroma and excellent taste, but Kunlun Snow Chrysanthemum also possesses remarkable medicinal and health benefits. It is a prized medicinal herb, renowned alongside the Tianshan Snow Lotus.
 
Snow Chrysanthemum primarily grows in certain mountainous areas of Hotan, Xinjiang, with a very strong regional specificity. It naturally thrives on the northern side of the Karakoram Mountains, in high-altitude, cold regions above 3,200 meters. As a premium natural wild chrysanthemum tea, Kunlun Snow Chrysanthemum has gained widespread acclaim for its unique effects, color, aroma, and flavor, making it one of the most refined teas. Since its place of origin is in the Keliyang mountainous area of Hotan, Xinjiang, it is also known as Keliyang Snow Chrysanthemum. Other names include Ice Mountain Snow Chrysanthemum, High-Altitude Fragrant Chrysanthemum, Tianshan Snow Chrysanthemum, and Kunlun Blood Chrysanthemum.
 
The Origin of Snow Chrysanthemum:
The mystery of Kunlun Snow Chrysanthemum dates back thousands of years to the term “Gulchay” (meaning flower tea in the local Uyghur language). This plant grows in the distant, enigmatic Kunlun Mountains, known as the ancestor of all mountains, situated at 77°50′E longitude and 37°15′N latitude, at an altitude ranging from 3,595 to 4,877 meters on the temperate northern slopes of the majestic range. The glacial meltwater from these mountains gives all life a noble aura—and “Gulchay” thrives hidden within this environment.
 
The local Uyghur herders, whose lives are closely intertwined with the Kunlun Mountains, regard “Gulchay” as a divine gift. They believe it brings them unparalleled experiences and sensations, with many of their bodily discomforts mysteriously vanishing after using it.
 
“Gulchay” has bloomed for thousands of years in the Karakoram Mountains. It bravely withstands snow and frost among icy peaks and steep cliffs, absorbing the essence of heaven and earth. Its blossoms are a dazzling golden yellow, dotted with small brown buds in the center. The flower stalks stand about 35 centimeters tall, each branch crowded with hundreds of blooms bursting through the snow, resembling young maidens secluded from the mundane world.
 
By chance, a medical doctor discovered this plant and brought it out of the Karakoram Mountains. From then on, “Gulchay” was given a new name: Keriya Snow Chrysanthemum.
 
At the foot of the Karakoram Mountains lies Keriya (which means fertile land in Uyghur), a village inhabited by Uyghur people. During scientific explorations deep in the Kunlun Mountains, researchers accidentally stumbled upon this chrysanthemum growing on icy cliffs at an altitude of 3,600 meters. Due to the nature of their work, the team members casually brewed the flowers in water and were astonished by the results: the brewed tea was a vivid, bright red, resembling blood; the taste was fragrant and refreshing. After drinking it for several days, the discomfort they felt at high altitudes began to fade away.
 
From that point, stories of Snow Chrysanthemum’s ability to ward off illnesses spread throughout Keriya. The flower became celebrated as a guardian spirit by the locals, and only those of high status were deemed worthy to enjoy it.
 
Since the original habitat of Kunlun Snow Chrysanthemum is in Keriya Township, Pishan County, Hotan Prefecture, Xinjiang, it is also commonly referred to as Keriya Snow Chrysanthemum. Some also call it Glacier Snow Chrysanthemum, Tianshan Snow Chrysanthemum, or even Kunlun Blood Chrysanthemum.
 
The dosage of Snow Chrysanthemum (Kunlun Snow Chrysanthemum) can vary depending on the purpose of use, individual health conditions, and preparation method. However, here are some general guidelines:
 
For Tea Preparation:
1. Standard Daily Use:
• 3 to 5 flowers per cup (about 1-2 grams).
• Steep in hot water (80-90°C) for 3-5 minutes.
• You can drink 1-3 cups per day.
2. For Therapeutic Use (e.g., to support cardiovascular health or reduce high blood pressure):
• 5 to 10 flowers per cup (about 2-4 grams).
• Steep in hot water for 5-7 minutes for a stronger infusion.
• Drink 2-3 times daily, ideally after meals.
 
Important Considerations:
1. Start with a lower dose if you’re new to Snow Chrysanthemum to see how your body reacts.
2. Consult a healthcare provider if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have underlying health conditions, especially related to blood pressure or the cardiovascular system.
3. Possible Effects: Snow Chrysanthemum is known for its cooling properties in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), so overconsumption may cause cold symptoms such as chills or digestive discomfort in people with cold constitutions.