Overview
White Peony Root (Paeonia lactiflora Pall.) is one of the most important herbs in Traditional Chinese Medicine, with a documented history of use spanning over 1,500 years. The herb is primarily cultivated in China's Anhui province, particularly in the Bozhou region where the 'Báisháo' variety is considered premium quality. As a fundamental herb in TCM, it's classified as having sweet, sour, and slightly bitter properties with a cooling effect. The root contains active compounds including paeoniflorin, albiflorin, and tannins which contribute to its therapeutic effects. In TCM theory, it's valued for its ability to nourish the blood, regulate menstruation, and calm liver yang.
Physical and Chemical Properties
The dried root typically appears as longitudinal slices or powder with a pale yellow to white color. It has a slightly aromatic odor and a bitter, astringent taste. The main active constituent, paeoniflorin, is a monoterpene glycoside that accounts for approximately 1-5% of the dry weight. Modern analytical methods have identified over 70 chemical compounds in White Peony Root, including monoterpene glycosides, triterpenes, flavonoids, and phenolic compounds. The water-soluble components demonstrate significant pharmacological activities, while the alcohol-soluble fraction contains additional bioactive compounds.
Main Applications
In clinical TCM practice, White Peony Root is commonly prescribed for menstrual disorders, muscle cramps, chronic pain syndromes, and inflammatory conditions. It's a key component in famous formulas such as Si Wu Tang (Four Substances Decoction) and Xiao Yao San (Free and Easy Wanderer Powder). Contemporary applications extend to nutraceuticals and cosmeceuticals, where its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties are utilized in skincare products targeting redness and irritation. Some modern research suggests potential applications in neuroprotective and cardiovascular formulations, though these require further clinical validation.
Safety and Storage
While generally safe, White Peony Root should be used with caution in patients with blood deficiency without heat signs, and is contraindicated in cases of cold deficiency with diarrhea. The typical dosage ranges from 5-15g in decoction form. Proper storage is crucial to maintain potency. The dried root should be kept in airtight containers with desiccants to prevent moisture absorption, which can lead to mold growth. Processed slices maintain quality for about 2-3 years when stored properly, while powdered forms have a shorter shelf life of 12-18 months.
B2B Procurement Guide
When sourcing White Peony Root commercially, buyers should prioritize suppliers who can provide detailed cultivation and processing documentation. The Bozhou origin is particularly valued for its traditional processing methods that enhance efficacy. Key quality indicators include: uniform slice thickness (2-4mm), absence of brown spots (indicating proper processing), and paeoniflorin content >1.8%. Large-scale buyers should request third-party testing for heavy metals, pesticide residues, and sulfur dioxide levels, as these are common adulteration concerns in the herbal market.
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