Paeoniaceae
White Peony Root
Paeonia lactiflora
✓ Generally Safe
Caution in Pregnancy
Native to: China, Mongolia, Siberia
Also known as: Chinese Peony, Bai Shao, Garden Peony, Lactiflora Peony
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Parts Used
Root
Therapeutic Uses
Menstrual cramps and irregularities, PCOS (combined with licorice — clinical trials), autoimmune conditions, liver disease, muscle spasms, rheumatoid arthritis. Central herb in Chinese gynecological formulas.
Herbal Actions
Antispasmodic, anti-inflammatory, hepatoprotective, analgesic, immunomodulator, hormonal modulator
Active Constituents
Paeoniflorin (primary active monoterpene glycoside — up to 6%), paeonol, paeonoside, gallic acid, polysaccharides, benzoic acid
Preparation Methods
🍵 Decoction🏺 Tincture💊 Capsule
Traditional Preparation Notes
| Herbal Tea | 6–15g dried root simmered 30 min in 500ml, 2x daily |
| Tincture | 3–5 ml (1:5, 40% ethanol), 3x daily |
| Notes | TJ-68 (shakuyaku-kanzo-to) — combination with licorice root — has multiple RCTs for PCOS and dysmenorrhea. Central in Gui Zhi Fu Ling Wan for gynecological conditions. Paeoniflorin studied for autoimmune conditions. |
Safety Information
Safety Rating
✓ Generally Safe
Pregnancy
Caution in Pregnancy
Drug Interactions
Possible — consult doctor
Contraindications: Avoid in pregnancy. Caution with anticoagulants. Avoid in diarrhea or cold-deficient conditions (TCM context).
Side Effects: GI upset at high doses. Well tolerated generally. Possible interaction with CYP2C9.