Crown daisy (Shungiku) is a leafy green vegetable that hits its peak from November to March in Japan. 
At this time, the stems are tender and the aroma is wonderfully fragrant. With its distinct bitterness and aromatic flavor, it has a taste that feels nourishing. 
Crown daisy is an essential ingredient for sukiyaki pot at my house —we simply can’t have the dish without it! 
From the Yakuzen perspective, crown daisy is believed to nourish the lungs and clear excess lung heat helping to ease coughs and phlegm. It also supports overall Qi flow in the body and promotes healthy digestion. It is rich in beta-carotene, which is a powerful antioxidant that supports eye health, immune function, and skin health. In fact, crown daisy contains more beta-carotene than spinach!

Yakuzen Classifications
Nature – Neutral（平）
Channels – Liver (肝), Lung (肺), Heart (心), Spleen (脾), Stomach (胃)
Flavor – Pungent (辛), Sweet (甘)

How does crown daisy help you?

1. Clear lung heat and relieve coughs and phlegm
2. Promote Qi flow and improve your digestion
3. Promote Qi flow and help you relieve stress

Good for the following symptoms

1. Coughs due to excess heat
2. Phlegm
3. Poor appetite
4. Bloating due to indigestion
5. Nausea
6. Constipation

Japanese home dishes with crown daisy

1. Crown daisy seasoned with black sesame sauce

Gentle Reminders

• It’s important to understand your own body condition before choosing foods.
• Avoid overeating any one type of food.
• Do not eat foods you are allergic to.
• Certain foods may need to be avoided during pregnancy or if you have a medical condition—please check with your doctor before starting Yakuzen.