Chinese peony
Synopsis of Chinese peony
History
Chinese peony (Paeonia lactiflora) has held a revered place in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) for over a thousand years. Valued for its beautiful blossoms, Chinese peony root (commonly known as "Bai Shao") has been prized as a gentle yet effective botanical remedy. Historically, Chinese physicians have used peony root to nourish the blood, regulate menstruation, and alleviate pain, especially for women’s health. Ancient texts record its use in easing menstrual cramps, calming irritability, and supporting recovery after childbirth. Peony was also prescribed to relieve muscle spasms, headaches, and to support liver and immune function.
Chinese peony’s benefits are amplified when combined with other herbs in classical TCM formulas. It is a key ingredient in the famous formula “Shaoyao Gancao Tang” (Peony and Licorice Decoction), which is renowned for its ability to ease muscle cramps and spasms. In “Si Wu Tang” (Four Substances Decoction), peony works synergistically with other herbs like angelica and rehmannia to nourish and invigorate the blood, supporting optimal vitality and reproductive health. These combinations highlight Chinese peony’s versatility and value in holistic wellness regimens.
Modern research continues to affirm peony’s potential, particularly its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immune-supporting properties. As both a standalone supplement and a cornerstone of herbal combinations, Chinese peony remains an outstanding example of how traditional botanicals can contribute to contemporary health and wellness solutions.
Traditional and scientific validation
Chinese peony (Paeonia lactiflora) has a long-standing history in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), where its root—commonly known as Bai Shao—is valued for its purported ability to nourish the blood, soothe the liver, and alleviate pain. Traditionally, it has been used to support women’s health, particularly for menstrual discomfort and to modulate immune function.
Modern scientific interest in Chinese peony centers around its bioactive constituents, including paeoniflorin, albiflorin, and various flavonoids. Laboratory and animal studies have shown that these compounds possess anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immunomodulatory properties. For example, paeoniflorin has demonstrated the ability to reduce inflammatory markers and protect nerve cells in experimental models.
Clinical research on Chinese peony is still developing but is promising. Some randomized controlled trials, particularly those using traditional TCM formulas containing peony root, suggest beneficial effects for conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, dysmenorrhea (painful menstruation), and certain autoimmune disorders. In a few studies, herbal combinations including Chinese peony have been associated with reduced joint pain and improved quality of life, although it is often difficult to attribute results to peony alone due to the multi-herb nature of TCM preparations.
While more rigorous, large-scale clinical trials are needed to confirm its efficacy and safety, Chinese peony’s longstanding use and emerging scientific evidence point to its potential as a valuable ingredient in nutritional products. Its contributions to traditional health practices and current research findings make it a noteworthy botanical for further exploration.
Chinese peony is used for these health conditions
Abdominal Pain (Traditional)
Amenorrhea (Traditional)
Anemia (Traditional)
Anxiety (Traditional)
Arthritis (Scientific)
Asthma (Traditional)
Backache (Traditional)
Bites and Stings (Traditional)
Bleeding (external) (Traditional)
Bruises (healing) (Traditional)
Canker Sores (Traditional)
Chest Pain (Traditional)
Chills (Traditional)
Colic (adults) (Traditional)
Colic (children) (Traditional)
Constipation (adults) (Traditional)
Cough (dry) (Traditional)
Cough (general) (Traditional)
Cramps (menstrual) (Traditional)
Cramps and Spasms (Traditional)
Dysmenorrhea (Scientific)
Edema (Traditional)
Emotional Sensitivity (Traditional)
Endometriosis (Traditional)
Fever (Traditional)
Fibromyalgia Syndrome (Traditional)
Gas and Bloating (Traditional)
Gastritis (Traditional)
Glands (swollen lymph) (Traditional)
Headache (general) (Traditional)
Headache (sinus) (Traditional)
Headache (tension) (Traditional)
Hemorrhoids (Traditional)
Hepatitis (Traditional)
Hot Flashes (Traditional)
Hypertension (Traditional)
Indigestion (Traditional)
Inflammation (Scientific)
Insomnia (Traditional)
Chinese peony is used to support these body systems
Blood (Traditional)
Brain (Traditional)
Circulatory System (Traditional)
Digestive System (Traditional)
Female Reproductive System (Traditional)
Immune System (Traditional)
Joints (Traditional)
Liver (Traditional)
Nerves (Traditional)
Ovaries (Traditional)
Reproductive System (Traditional)
Respiratory System (Traditional)
Spleen (Traditional)
Uterus (Traditional)
