White Peony Extract
Also known as: White Peony, Garden Peony, Chinese Peony, Bai Shao, Bai-shao, Paeonia lactiflora
Overview
White Peony root is derived from *Paeonia lactiflora*, a plant native to East Asia and used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for over 1,500 years. The root is rich in active compounds like paeoniflorin and albiflorin, contributing to its various medicinal properties, including anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects. Traditionally, White Peony is employed for treating diverse ailments, including mental health disorders, inflammation, blood flow issues, and gynecological conditions. Modern research is ongoing to explore its uses in autoimmune diseases and as a complementary treatment for conditions like Parkinson's disease and COVID-19. While some evidence from systematic reviews and meta-analyses supports its efficacy, further high-quality clinical trials are essential to substantiate its benefits and ensure safe usage.
Benefits
White Peony root has several evidence-backed benefits. It has shown efficacy in treating autoimmune diseases, particularly with total glucosides of peony (TGP), which significantly improved symptoms and reduced inflammatory markers (ESR, CRP) in rheumatoid arthritis and ankylosing spondylitis patients. Paeoniflorin's anti-inflammatory properties have made it beneficial for chronic inflammation conditions. In women’s health, White Peony may alleviate menopausal symptoms, comparably effective as hormone therapy. Preliminary research indicates that it might assist in managing anxiety and depression by increasing serotonin levels through the inhibition of the serotonin reuptake transporter (SERT), although more human studies are needed. Despite reservations about the strength of some evidence, the clinical significance of improvements, particularly for autoimmune diseases, is evident from existing literature.
How it works
The primary mechanisms of action for White Peony root involve its anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects mediated by compounds like paeoniflorin and albiflorin. These glycosides suppress inflammatory pathways, which can alleviate symptoms of autoimmune and inflammatory disorders. Furthermore, the inhibition of SERT by these compounds may elevate serotonin levels, potentially mitigating anxiety and depression. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, White Peony is believed to nourish blood and regulate menstrual health by affecting the Liver and Spleen channels, while also influencing cytochrome P450 enzymes, raising considerations for drug interactions.
Side effects
White Peony root is generally safe when used correctly but can lead to side effects such as diarrhea and digestive upset in more than 5% of users. Less common side effects, affecting approximately 1-5% of users, are not well-documented, although potential drug interactions with CYP3A4 and CYP2D6 substrates exist. Rare adverse reactions (<1%) have not been explicitly detailed in literature but include the possibility of allergic responses. Due to limited safety data, White Peony is contraindicated during pregnancy and nursing. Special populations, such as those on immunosuppressive therapies, should consult healthcare providers before use due to potential risks.
Dosage
The recommended dosage of White Peony root typically ranges between 0.3 g to 0.9 g of total glucosides of peony (TGP) per day, with specific dosages of 0.6 g to 0.9 g being used for autoimmune conditions like ankylosing spondylitis. There is no clearly established maximum safe dosage, but higher doses should be administered cautiously owing to the risk of side effects and potential drug interactions. Generally taken orally, the timing of doses isn't specified; however, it is commonly available in several forms including capsules, tinctures, and powder. Users should follow manufacturer instructions for preparation and dosing, as bioavailability may vary with different forms and individual digestive health.
FAQs
Is it safe to take during pregnancy?
White Peony root should be avoided during pregnancy and nursing due to insufficient safety data.
How should I take White Peony root?
Follow the manufacturer's instructions for dosage and preparation; it can be taken in capsule, tincture, or powder form.
When will I start to see results?
Benefits are typically observed over several weeks to months, depending on the condition being treated.
Are there risks of side effects?
Common side effects include diarrhea and digestive upset; consult a healthcare provider to understand individual risks.
Can White Peony help with stress or anxiety?
Preliminary studies suggest it may alleviate anxiety by increasing serotonin levels, but more research in humans is needed.
Research Sources
- https://www.healthline.com/health/white-peony-root – This article provides an overview of White Peony root, detailing its history, uses in traditional medicine, potential benefits, and side effects. It also emphasizes the need for more clinical research to support its applications.
- https://carahealth.com/herbal-monographs/white-peony-root-paeonia-lactiflora – This monograph reviews the pharmacological properties of White Peony root, discussing its active components and therapeutic applications, particularly in autoimmune diseases and inflammation, while highlighting the need for further scientific validation.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32371143/ – This clinical study examines the effects of total glucosides of peony on ankylosing spondylitis, revealing significant improvements in patient outcomes and inflammatory marker reductions through systematic review and statistical analysis.
- https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/pharmacology/articles/10.3389/fphar.2019.00231/full – The paper discusses the pharmacological review of TGP, documenting its immunomodulatory effects and applications in various conditions, while calling for further research to fully confirm these benefits.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21087067/ – This meta-analysis evaluates herbal medicines including White Peony, underscoring its complementary roles in conditions like Parkinson's disease and the importance of understanding herbal interactions and effects.
Supplements Containing White Peony Extract
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