Peony, particularly the root of Paeonia lactiflora (commonly known as White Peony), has a long history of traditional use in supporting female reproductive health, especially within Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). In TCM, peony root is considered to nourish the blood, regulate menstruation, and alleviate menstrual pain. It is a key ingredient in classic herbal formulas such as Shao Yao Gan Cao Tang and Dang Gui Shao Yao San, both widely used for gynecological complaints including dysmenorrhea (painful periods), irregular menstruation, and symptoms associated with menopause.

Modern scientific research on peony’s effects on the female reproductive system is limited, but some studies, mostly conducted in Asia, suggest that peony root extracts may influence hormonal regulation, anti-inflammatory activity, and possibly improve ovarian function. For example, laboratory studies have shown that compounds in peony may modulate estrogen and androgen levels and have antispasmodic effects on uterine muscle, which could explain its historical use for menstrual cramps and hormonal imbalances. However, robust clinical trials in humans are lacking, so the scientific evidence does not yet match the traditional acclaim.

In summary, while peony’s use for female reproductive health is strongly supported by centuries of traditional practice and some preliminary pharmacological research, high-quality clinical trials are needed to fully validate its efficacy by modern scientific standards.