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Common Name
Paeonia, Peony, White Peony, Bai Shao
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Botanical Name
Paeonia lactiflora
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Part Used
Root
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Clinical Summary
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Monograph
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Alcohol
60%
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Dose
15 to 30mL weekly
Paeonia is effective in the treatment of conditions, such as premenstrual syndrome and polycystic ovarian syndrome, which have at their core various hormonal irregularities, including elevated androgens, low progesterone, high or low oestrogen and elevated prolactin, all of which paeonia has been shown to influence.
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Traditional Use
In TCM paeonia is often prescribed for a wide range of gynaecological problems making it one the most versatile herbal medicines for women’s health. Paeonia is also used in traditional Chinese medicine for inflammation and pain.
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Actions
Antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, anticonvulsant, analgesic, antithrombotic, hormone modulator, hepatoprotective, immunomodulator, neuroprotective, cognitive enhancer, uterine tonic, sedative
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Indications
• Dysmenorrhoea, premenstrual syndrome, endometriosis and adenomyosis
• Polycystic ovarian syndrome, ovulatory failure, infertility, androgen excess, mastalgia and menopausal symptoms
• Hyperprolactinaemia
• Headaches and muscular spasm
• Hepatic injury and toxicity
• Cardiovascular disease (including angina, atherosclerosis and thrombosis)
• Oxidative stress and inflammatory disorders
• Memory impairment
• Pre and post operative pain and spasm (colonoscopy) -
Energetics
Bitter, salty, cold
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Use in Pregnancy
Paeonia appears safe in pregnancy and lactation.
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Contraindications & Cautions
None known.
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Drug Interactions
Caution with phenytoin (a medicine used to treat epilepsy). Monitor with anticoagulant/antiplatelet (such as warfarin) drugs.
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Dietary Information
Vegan friendly. Gluten and dairy free.
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Substitutes
False Unicorn Root, Dong Quai, Chastetree, Black Cohosh