Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Peony, particularly species such as Paeonia lactiflora (commonly known as Chinese peony), has a long history of use in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) for various ailments, including conditions that resemble colds with fever. In TCM, peony root (usually termed "Bai Shao" for white peony root or "Chi Shao" for red peony root) is often included in formulas designed to "clear heat," "cool the blood," and alleviate febrile conditions. Classic texts such as the "Shennong Bencao Jing" and the "Compendium of Materia Medica" mention peony as a component in multi-herb remedies employed for symptoms like fever, headache, and muscle aches, which may overlap with modern descriptions of colds with fever.

However, while the traditional use is well-documented, direct scientific evidence supporting peony's efficacy for treating the common cold or fever is lacking. Most modern research on peony focuses on its anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, and analgesic effects, often in the context of autoimmune diseases or inflammation rather than acute viral infections like the common cold. There are few, if any, rigorous clinical trials assessing peony's effect specifically on the symptoms of colds or fever. Thus, its use for this indication is justified primarily by historical and traditional practice rather than robust scientific validation.

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