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Paeonia Lactiflora Root Extract

Also known as: Chinese peony, peony root, Paeonia lactiflora

Overview

*Paeonia lactiflora* root extract is derived from the dried roots of the peony plant, a prominent herb in traditional Chinese medicine. Known for its anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties, it is primarily utilized to treat rheumatic diseases such as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA). The extract boasts a variety of bioactive compounds, notably total glucosides of paeony (TGP), which are considered crucial to its therapeutic benefits. Current research involves moderate maturity, with increasing support from clinical trials and meta-analyses; however, the quality of this evidence exhibits variability due to inherent study biases.

Benefits

{"Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE)":"TGP combined with conventional treatments has shown to significantly reduce disease activity compared to conventional therapies alone, with a mean difference ranging from 0.29 to 0.88 (p = 0.01).","Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)":"TGP therapy may lower the risk of liver adverse effects and leukopenia when used as an adjuvant to standard treatments. Evidence supports moderate effectiveness, though variability in individual studies exists.","Antiatherosclerosis Effects":"Preliminary studies indicate potential benefits in reducing early atherosclerosis via anti-inflammatory mechanisms, suggesting broader cardiovascular applications."}

How it works

*Paeonia lactiflora* root extract acts primarily through immune modulation and anti-inflammatory effects by downregulating the NF-κB signaling pathway. This process helps in regulating immune responses and mitigating inflammation within the body. It appears to interact with various biological systems, particularly the immune and cardiovascular systems, at a molecular level by targeting VCAM-1 and NF-κB, although comprehensive data on its absorption and bioavailability remain limited.

Side effects

{"Overall Safety Assessment":"Generally recognized as safe; however, the long-term safety profile remains inadequately established due to insufficient high-quality evidence.","Common Side Effects":"Documented side effects are minimal and not well-characterized, with gastrointestinal disturbances notable but usually rare.","Drug Interactions":"Potential interactions may occur with immunosuppressants or medications affecting liver function.","Contraindications":"Not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding individuals due to insufficient safety data. Caution is advised for those with pre-existing liver or kidney conditions."}

Dosage

{"Minimum Effective Dose":"Not clearly defined.","Optimal Dosage Ranges":"Commonly used alongside conventional therapies; specific dosages may vary depending on individual treatment plans.","Maximum Safe Dose":"Not rigorously established due to variability in practice.","Timing Considerations":"Typically suggested for continuous use as part of a broader treatment regimen.","Form-Specific Recommendations":"Oral administration is prevalent; however, further insights into absorption factors and specific dosing mechanics are required."}

FAQs

Is it safe to use?

Generally safe under proper guidance, but more long-term safety research is warranted.

How should I take it?

Usually taken orally as part of a daily treatment regimen.

What results can I expect?

May help reduce disease activity in conditions like SLE and RA.

Can I use it instead of my regular medications?

No, it should complement conventional treatments and be used under medical supervision.

Research Sources

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35173622/ – This systematic review assessed the efficacy of TGP alongside standard treatments in SLE patients, indicating superior outcomes in disease activity reduction. It highlighted significant limitations regarding study quality and biases.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38615840/ – This meta-analysis reported that TGP adjuvant therapy improved treatment outcomes in RA by reducing hepatic adverse effects. However, the study acknowledged moderate quality due to the variability of included research.
https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/pharmacology/articles/10.3389/fphar.2022.834947/full – The study provided evidence for the antiatherosclerotic benefits of PLE, showing its role in mitigating inflammation but concluded that further human trials are needed to substantiate these findings.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34679642/ – This research highlighted the preclinical effects of PLE on inflammation and suggested potential therapeutic implications, although it only involved animal and cell model experiments.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33771151/ – This investigation focused on the pharmacological effects of TGP in RA, concluding an overall beneficial profile but noting the caution required regarding data quality and heterogeneity.