Get Your Personalized Supplement StackSupplement Stack Quiz

Tree Peony Extract

Also known as: Tree Peony, Moutan Peony, Paeonia lactiflora, Total Glucosides of Paeony (TGP), Paeonia suffruticosa

Overview

Tree Peony Extract is primarily derived from the root bark of *Paeonia suffruticosa* and related species like *Paeonia lactiflora*. This botanical extract is rich in bioactive compounds, including total glucosides (TGP), paeonol, and various phenolic compounds. Traditionally, it has been utilized in East Asian medicine for its immune-modulating, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and cardiovascular health properties. Modern research investigates its potential in managing autoimmune diseases, such as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), reducing oxidative stress, and influencing lipid metabolism. While the research maturity is moderate, with several randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and systematic reviews available, particularly concerning TGP and its antioxidant effects, the evidence quality varies. However, some well-conducted studies with adequate sample sizes support its therapeutic potential.

Benefits

Tree Peony Extract offers several evidence-based benefits, primarily due to its immune-modulating, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties. For immune modulation and autoimmune diseases, a systematic review and meta-analysis of 14 RCTs involving 978 participants demonstrated that Total Glucosides of Paeony (TGP), when combined with conventional treatments, significantly reduced disease activity in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). This reduction, indicated by a mean difference in SLEDAI score of approximately -3.54, suggests a clinically meaningful improvement. The extract also exhibits strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. Phenolic compounds and paeonol found in *Paeonia suffruticosa* reduce reactive oxygen species (ROS) and modulate key signaling pathways like MAPK/NF-κB and Nrf2, which are crucial for regulating oxidative stress and inflammation. These effects have been confirmed in cellular and animal studies, showing protection against inflammation and oxidative damage. Furthermore, Tree Peony Seed Oil (PSO) has shown promise in metabolic and cardiovascular health, demonstrating lipid-lowering effects and modulation of gut microbiota in animal models, leading to reduced body weight and fat accumulation. While human data for metabolic benefits are limited, these findings suggest potential in hyperlipidemia and metabolic syndrome. Acute toxicity studies indicate a high safety margin, with only mild, transient side effects at very high doses.

How it works

Tree Peony Extract exerts its effects through several key bioactive compounds, primarily total glucosides of paeony (TGP), paeonol, and other phenolic compounds. TGP plays a crucial role in modulating immune function by regulating inflammatory cytokines and immune cell activity, which is particularly beneficial in autoimmune conditions. The extract's antioxidant properties are mediated by its ability to scavenge reactive oxygen species (ROS) and activate the Nrf2 pathway, thereby enhancing the body's cellular defense mechanisms against oxidative stress. Paeonol contributes to the anti-inflammatory effects by inhibiting the MAPK/NF-κB signaling pathway, which reduces the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines like IL-8. Additionally, components found in tree peony seed oil can influence lipid metabolism and alter the composition of gut microbiota, contributing to improvements in metabolic health. While specific absorption and bioavailability data are limited, phenolic compounds generally exhibit moderate oral bioavailability.

Side effects

Overall, Tree Peony Extract and its constituent compounds are considered safe at the doses typically studied. Animal studies have reported mild and transient gastrointestinal effects, such as oily feces, and a decrease in activity, but only at very high doses. No serious adverse effects, organ toxicity, or significant adverse events have been reported in the randomized controlled trials or animal studies reviewed. Furthermore, the current literature does not document any significant drug interactions or contraindications for Tree Peony Extract. However, it is important to note that there is insufficient data regarding the safety of Tree Peony Extract in special populations, including pregnant or lactating individuals and children. Therefore, its use in these groups is not recommended without further research. As with any supplement, individuals with pre-existing medical conditions or those taking other medications should consult a healthcare professional before starting supplementation.

Dosage

For systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), the dosage of Total Glucosides of Paeony (TGP) used in clinical trials typically ranges around 1.8 grams per day, administered as an adjunct to conventional therapy. It is important to note that the exact dosing may vary between studies. For other potential benefits, such as antioxidant or metabolic effects, optimal human dosing has not yet been well established or standardized. Similarly, while tree peony seed oil has been studied in animal models, human dosing guidelines are not available. The timing of administration and the specific form of the extract (e.g., root bark extract versus seed oil) can influence its effects, but further research is needed to provide precise recommendations. Currently, no specific cofactors have been identified as necessary to enhance the absorption or efficacy of Tree Peony Extract.

FAQs

Is Tree Peony Extract safe for long-term use?

Current evidence from clinical trials and animal studies suggests a favorable safety profile. However, comprehensive long-term human data are still limited, so caution is advised for extended use.

Can it be used alone or only as adjunct therapy?

Most clinical evidence, particularly in autoimmune diseases like SLE, supports its use as an adjunct to conventional medical treatments rather than as a standalone therapy.

How soon do benefits appear?

In studies focusing on systemic lupus erythematosus, clinical improvements have typically been observed within weeks to a few months of consistent treatment.

Is seed oil the same as root extract?

No, tree peony seed oil and root bark extract contain different bioactive compound profiles and are therefore expected to have distinct physiological effects and applications.

Research Sources

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35173622/ – This systematic review and meta-analysis by Chen et al. (2022) synthesized data from 14 randomized controlled trials involving 978 participants. It concluded that Total Glucosides of Paeony (TGP), when used in combination with conventional therapy, significantly reduced disease activity in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients compared to conventional therapy alone. The study highlighted the clinical efficacy of TGP as an adjunctive treatment for SLE.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9739549/ – Ekiert et al. (2022) conducted a systematic review detailing the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory mechanisms of compounds derived from *Paeonia suffruticosa*. The review, supported by cellular and animal studies, elucidated molecular pathways such as Nrf2 and MAPK/NF-κB involved in these effects. While comprehensive on mechanisms, it did not include human clinical trials.
https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1002/fsn3.4108 – Liang et al. (2024) conducted an animal study demonstrating that tree peony seed oil modulates gut microbiota composition and effectively reduces hyperlipidemia and fat accumulation in rodents. This research provides valuable mechanistic insights into the metabolic benefits of tree peony seed oil, although it lacks human data and clinical trial validation.