Botanical Overview
Paeonia lactiflora, commonly known as Chinese peony or Bai Shao, is a member of the Paeoniaceae family. The medicinal part predominantly used is the root. Native to East Asia, particularly China, Korea, and Japan, it has longstanding traditional uses primarily in Traditional Chinese Medicine.
Energetics
The root of Paeonia lactiflora is considered to have cooling temperature and moistening properties. Its taste profile is bitter and sour, and directionality is generally descending and inward. It has a relaxing tonic effect and primarily nourishes the blood.
Primary Actions
- Analgesic
- Anti-inflammatory
- Antispasmodic
- Sedative
- Hepatoprotective
Indications
Western
- Muscle cramps
- Menstrual pain
- Inflammation
- Nervous tension
- Liver dysfunction
Syndromes
- Muscle spasms
- Peripheral vascular conditions
- Mild anxiety
TCM
- Menstrual irregularities
- Abdominal pain
- Muscle spasms
- Irritability
- Night sweating
Syndromes
- Liver blood deficiency
- Liver yin deficiency
- Blood stasis
Ayurveda
No well-documented indications in classical Ayurveda.
Unani
No documented significant traditional uses.
Constituents & Mechanisms
The root contains monoterpene glycosides such as paeoniflorin, various flavonoids, tannins, and polyphenols, which contribute to its anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, and hepatoprotective effects.
Dosage & Preparations
- Decoction 3-10 g daily
- Powder 1-3 g 1-2 times daily
- Tincture 1:5 30-50% ethanol 2-5 mL 1-3 times daily
Safety & Contraindications
Traditional use is generally safe at recommended doses. It is contraindicated during pregnancy due to potential uterine stimulant effects and should be used cautiously in patients with bleeding disorders or those taking anticoagulants. Safety during lactation is not established.
Astrological Correspondences
No reliably sourced planetary or elemental rulers identified.
Selected References
- Phytotherapy Desk Reference, Duke JW & Foster S, 2000
- WHO Monographs on Selected Medicinal Plants, 1999
- Chinese Herbal Medicine: Materia Medica, Bensky et al., 2004
- Herbal Medicine: Biomolecular and Clinical Aspects, Bensky et al., 2011