European peony

BotanicalBest with a meal

What is it

European peony, also called red peony (Paeonia rubra) and known in Chinese herbal medicine as Chi Shao, is a perennial whose root is used traditionally for blood stasis, menstrual disorders, and inflammation.

Evidence for 1 use

AI-assisted evidence assessment — talk to your doctor before relying on any single supplement.

Menstrual and inflammatory complaints (traditional)

Mixed Evidence

Traditional and preclinical support exists. Most clinical evidence is for multi-herb formulas rather than red peony alone.

How it works

Peony root contains paeoniflorin, albiflorin, and other monoterpene glycosides, plus polyphenols. Preclinical work suggests anti-inflammatory, antiplatelet, and modulating effects on smooth muscle and immune cells. The related white peony (Paeonia lactiflora) has been combined with licorice in a traditional formula (Shakuyaku-kanzo-to) studied for muscle cramps. Clinical data specifically for European/red peony are limited, with most use in multi-herb traditional formulas.

Dosage

Traditional decoctions use 6-15 g of dried root daily. The DSLD does not list a single standardized dose. Concentrated extracts vary by product.

When and how to take it

Traditionally taken in twice-daily decoctions; modern products typically taken with meals.

1 commercial form

Compare the main delivery options and what they’re best suited for.

Dried root extract

Used in Chinese herbal formulas.

Paeoniflorin is the main marker

Safety

Generally well tolerated in traditional short-term use. Mild GI upset is the most common side effect. Long-term safety with concentrated extracts is less well characterized.

Who should be cautious

Avoid in pregnancy and breastfeeding. Use cautiously with anticoagulants, antiplatelets, and before surgery.

Interactions

Theoretical antiplatelet activity could interact with anticoagulants. Possible interactions with hormone therapies and antihypertensives.

Frequently asked questions

Is European peony the same as white peony?⌄

Red peony (Paeonia rubra/lactiflora prepared without peeling) and white peony (Paeonia lactiflora prepared with peeling) are related but used for different indications in TCM.

Does it help cramps?⌄

The traditional white peony plus licorice formula has been studied for muscle cramps with some positive results. Evidence for red peony alone is more limited.

References

European peony on NIH DSLD (US supplement label database) — NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database link

Research on European peony (PubMed search) — PubMed link

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Evidence-based·How we grade evidence

Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This page is educational, not a substitute for personalized medical advice. Evidence grades are AI-assisted assessments — talk to your doctor before starting any new supplement, especially if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, on medications, or managing a chronic condition.