Evidence supporting the use of: Peony
For the health condition: Dysmenorrhea

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Peony, particularly the species Paeonia lactiflora, has a long history of use in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) for the treatment of gynecological disorders, including dysmenorrhea (painful menstruation). In TCM, peony root (commonly referred to as "Bai Shao") is believed to nourish the blood, regulate menstruation, and alleviate pain. Its use is often combined with other herbs, such as licorice root (forming the classic "Shaoyao-Gancao Decoction"), to potentiate its effects.

Scientific research supports some of these traditional claims. Several clinical and preclinical studies suggest that peony root extracts and their active constituents, such as paeoniflorin, have antispasmodic, anti-inflammatory, and analgesic properties. These effects are thought to be mediated through the inhibition of prostaglandin synthesis, modulation of uterine smooth muscle contraction, and reduction of inflammation, all of which are relevant to the pathophysiology of dysmenorrhea.

A number of randomized controlled trials, primarily conducted in East Asia, have reported that formulations containing peony root can reduce menstrual pain severity and improve quality of life in individuals with primary dysmenorrhea. However, many of these studies suffer from methodological limitations such as small sample sizes, lack of blinding, or inadequate controls. While promising, these findings suggest that the evidence base is moderate (rated 3/5) and further large-scale, high-quality studies are needed to conclusively establish peony’s efficacy and safety for this indication.

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