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Tree Peony

Also known as: Paeonia × suffruticosa, Tree Peony, Moutan Peony, Moutan Cortex, Tree Peony Seed Oil, PSO

Overview

Tree Peony, scientifically known as Paeonia × suffruticosa, is a plant valued for its seeds and root bark, which have a history of use in traditional Chinese medicine. The plant's seed oil (Tree Peony Seed Oil, or PSO) is rich in unsaturated fatty acids and phenolic compounds, including paeonol and paeoniflorin. These components contribute to its potential metabolic benefits, such as regulating lipid and glucose levels, as well as its anti-inflammatory and cosmetic applications. While research is ongoing, current evidence includes preclinical studies and some clinical data, though large-scale human randomized controlled trials (RCTs) are limited. The quality of evidence varies, with systematic reviews and animal studies providing support, but more robust human trials are needed to confirm its effects.

Benefits

Tree Peony Seed Oil (PSO) exhibits several potential benefits, primarily related to metabolic regulation. Animal studies suggest that PSO can reduce body weight, fat accumulation, blood triglycerides, total cholesterol, blood glucose, and LDL levels, indicating potential benefits for managing hyperlipidemia and hyperglycemia. These effects are linked to PSO's ability to modulate gut microbiota composition and metabolites. Additionally, traditional use and some pharmacological studies suggest anti-inflammatory and circulatory effects. Extracts have also been investigated for cosmetic applications, such as anti-aging and skin brightening, due to their antioxidant properties. However, most data are from animal models, and human data are limited, highlighting the need for further research to confirm these benefits in humans.

How it works

Tree Peony Seed Oil (PSO) exerts its effects through multiple biological pathways. Its unsaturated fatty acids and phenolic compounds modulate lipid metabolism and glucose homeostasis. Specifically, PSO regulates gut microbiota diversity and metabolite profiles, which in turn influence systemic metabolic parameters. Key bioactive compounds like paeonol and paeoniflorin contribute to its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and circulatory effects. While specific pharmacokinetic data are limited, these phenolic compounds are generally understood to have moderate bioavailability, allowing them to interact with various bodily systems and contribute to the observed health benefits.

Side effects

Tree Peony is generally considered safe based on traditional use and animal studies, with no major adverse effects reported in preclinical research. However, human data on side effects are limited. Traditional contraindications include avoiding use during pregnancy and in cases of heavy menstruation due to potential uterine effects. Drug interactions are not well-characterized, so caution is advised, particularly for individuals taking medications that affect blood circulation or metabolism. Pregnant women and individuals with heavy menstrual bleeding should avoid using Tree Peony. Safety in children and the elderly has not been established, necessitating caution in these populations. Further research is needed to fully characterize the safety profile and potential side effects in humans.

Dosage

Due to limited human data, specific dosage guidelines for Tree Peony are not well-established. Animal studies have used doses scaled to body weight, but these cannot be directly translated to human recommendations. Optimal dosage ranges and maximum safe doses are currently unknown. There is also no data on the ideal timing or duration of use for optimal effects. Seed oil is typically used for metabolic effects, while root bark extracts are used for traditional medicinal purposes. Until more research is available, it is important to exercise caution and consult with a healthcare professional before using Tree Peony, especially if pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking other medications.

FAQs

Is Tree Peony seed oil effective for lowering cholesterol?

Animal studies show promising lipid-lowering effects, but human clinical trials are needed for confirmation. More research is required to determine its effectiveness in humans.

Can it be used for diabetes?

It may improve blood glucose control in animal models; however, human evidence is insufficient to support its use for diabetes management at this time.

Is it safe during pregnancy?

No, it is contraindicated during pregnancy due to potential effects on menstruation and uterine activity. Avoid use if pregnant or trying to conceive.

How long before effects are seen?

Animal studies suggest effects may be seen within weeks, but human data are lacking. The timeline for experiencing benefits in humans is currently unknown.

Research Sources

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11167153/ – This animal RCT investigated the effects of Tree Peony Seed Oil (PSO) in high-fat diet mice. The study found that PSO reduced body weight, fat accumulation, triglycerides, total cholesterol, blood glucose, and LDL levels, with the mechanism linked to gut microbiota modulation, suggesting potential metabolic benefits. However, the study is limited by its animal model and the absence of human data.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9739549/ – This systematic review examined the phytochemicals and traditional uses of Paeonia × suffruticosa. It highlights paeonol and paeoniflorin as active compounds with circulatory and anti-inflammatory effects, while also noting contraindications and cosmetic applications. The review is limited by its reliance on preclinical and traditional data, with a scarcity of clinical trials.
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1002/fsn3.4108 – This review examines the effects of dietary tree peony seed oil on lipid metabolism. It suggests that the n-3 PUFA content may increase both LDL and HDL cholesterol in humans over 4 weeks, indicating complex lipid effects. The review highlights the need for direct RCTs on PSO to confirm these findings.
https://www.cabidigitallibrary.org/doi/pdf/10.5555/20173253460 – This source discusses the properties, uses, and cultivation of Paeonia suffruticosa. It provides information on the plant's traditional uses in medicine and its potential health benefits. The information is useful for understanding the historical context and applications of Tree Peony.
https://www.mdpi.com/1422-0067/24/13/10609 – This study investigates the effects of paeoniflorin on inflammatory responses. It provides insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying the anti-inflammatory properties of paeoniflorin, a key bioactive compound found in Tree Peony. The findings contribute to understanding the potential therapeutic applications of Tree Peony in inflammatory conditions.