Peony Root

Synonyms: Bai Shao, Bai Shao Yao (White Flowered), Chi Shao, Chi Shao Yao (Red Flowered), Chih Shao, Chinese Peony, Common Garden Peony Root, Double Peony Root, European Peony Root, Ladle Medicine, Pai Shao, Peoniae Radix, Peony, Piney Root, Shao Yao (Ladle Medicine), White Peony Root

Family: Paeoniaceae or Ranunculaceae

Genus species: Paeonia lactiflora (Common Garden Peony, White Peony), Paeonia officinalis (European Peony, Piney), Paeonia albiflora, Paeonia obovata, Paeonia veitchii

Type: Perennial shrub

Part Used: Root

Location: Asia Minor, Bulgaria, China, Japan, Manchuria, Siberia, southern France, Turkey

Actions: Analgesic, antibacterial, anticonvulsant, anhidrotic, antidiuretic, antihypertensive, anti-inflammatory, antipyretic, antiseptic, antispasmodic, capillary protectant, circulatory stimulant, coronary vasodilator, emmenagogue, hemostatic, sedative, tonic, tranquilizer

Indications: Allergies, amenorrhea, anemia, arthralgia, cardiovascular disease, cholecystitis, dermatitis, dizziness, dysentery, excessive menstruation, flatulence, gastric ulcer, gastrointestinal disorders, heat rash, hyperemia, hypertension, inflammation, irregular menstruation, menstrual disorders, migraine, neuralgia, neurasthenia, painful menstruation, poor circulation, rheumatism, stomachache

Chemicals & Nutrients: Glucose, Starch, Sucrose (11%)

Preparation & Dosages:

Decoction: 5-10 g, in 2-3 doses

Infusion: 2-3 g

Tincture, Dried Root: 1:5 in 60% alcohol, dose; 10-25 drops up to 4x/day

Tincture, Fresh Root: 1:2 in 60% alcohol, dose; 10-25 drops up to 4x/day

Contraindications: Pregnancy.

Drug Interactions: Due to the antihypertensive (hypotensive) action of this herb the following interactions are possible: when taken with anesthetics an increased hypotensive effect; potentiation of antihypertensives; when taken with diuretics difficulty with diuresis and hypertension may result; antagonism of sympathomimetics.