Evidence supporting the use of: White Peony
For the health condition: Irritability
Synopsis
Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2
White Peony (Paeonia lactiflora) has a long history of use in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), where it is known as "Bai Shao." In TCM, White Peony is commonly used to "nourish the blood," "soothe the liver," and alleviate symptoms such as irritability, mood swings, and emotional instability. The use of White Peony for irritability is grounded in the TCM theory that liver qi stagnation or blood deficiency can manifest as emotional disturbances, including irritability. Classical TCM texts and centuries of clinical practice endorse its use for these purposes, often as part of multi-herb formulas like Xiao Yao San (Free and Easy Wanderer).
However, while there are a few modern studies exploring the pharmacological effects of Paeonia lactiflora, direct scientific evidence specifically validating its efficacy for treating irritability in humans is limited. Most available research has focused on its anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, and neuroprotective properties. Some animal studies indicate potential effects on neurotransmitters and stress responses, but these findings are preliminary and not conclusive for clinical use in irritability. Thus, the primary justification for its use in irritability is traditional, with scientific evidence remaining limited and indirect at this time.
Other ingredients used for Irritability
5-Hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP)ashwagandha
chamomile
Coptis chinensis
GABA (gamma aminobutyric acid)
lavender
maca
omega-3 fatty acids
passionflower
reishi mushroom
relora® (proprietary)
rhodiola
valerian root
vitamin B6
zinc
amber
St. John's Wort
Avens
Albizia
Dragonhead
Sweet Orange alcohol
Other health conditions supported by White Peony
Abdominal PainAnxiety
Anxiety Disorders
Arthritis
Asthma
Backache
Bites and Stings
Bleeding (external)
Bruises (healing)
Cancer Treatment (reducing side effects)
Canker Sores
Chest Pain
Colds (general)
Depression
Diarrhea
Digestion (poor)
Dizziness
Dysmenorrhea
Dyspepsia
Eczema
Energy (lack of)
Gastritis
Gingivitis
Headache (general)
Headache (sinus)
Headache (tension)
Hemorrhoids
Hot Flashes
Hypertension
Indigestion
Inflammation
Insomnia
Irritability
Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Itching
Jaundice (adults)