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Herbal & Flower Teas

Cicada Shell Chrysanthemum Tea

Traditionally supports relief from eye itchiness and wind-heat irritation

By · Registered Nutritionist & TCM Practitioner

Prep
5 min
Cook
25 min
Total
30 min
Makes
1–2 cups
Eye Wellness
Cicada Shell Chrysanthemum Tea

Why people make this tea

When eyes feel perpetually itchy, gritty, or irritated — especially in windy or allergy-prone seasons — many Hong Kong families reach for this simple two-herb brew. Cicada slough (the shed shell of the cicada insect) has a long history in Chinese herbal medicine and is considered safe and gentle, even for young children. Paired with fragrant chrysanthemum flowers, it makes a refreshing tea that gently supports the eyes and throat when wind-heat symptoms appear.

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Frequently asked questions

What is cicada slough, and why is it used in this tea?

Cicada slough is the shed shell of the cicada insect. It has a long history in Chinese herbal medicine and is traditionally used in Chinese food therapy to address wind-heat patterns commonly associated with itchy or irritated eyes and throat. It is considered safe and gentle, even for young children.

Is this tea safe for children?

Yes, the tea is described as gentle enough for young children. Beyond itchy eyes, it has traditionally been used for children who are restless at night or prone to skin hives from wind-type irritation. Note that if honey is added for sweetness, it should not be given to infants under 18 months.

How long does this tea take to prepare, and how much does it make?

The total preparation and cooking time is about 30 minutes — roughly 5 minutes of preparation and 25 minutes of simmering. The recipe yields 1 to 2 cups.

What can I use if I cannot find cicada slough?

If cicada slough is not available, a reasonable alternative is a tea made with mulberry leaf (sang ye) and chrysanthemum flowers — 10 g each, simmered for 10 minutes.

When is this tea traditionally enjoyed?

Many Hong Kong families reach for this brew when eyes feel perpetually itchy, gritty, or irritated, especially in windy or allergy-prone seasons, as it is traditionally used to gently support the eyes and throat when wind-heat symptoms appear.

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