Paeonia officinalis (Ranunculaceae)

PEONY

The root and petals were used by herbalists to treat convulsions. Homeopaths give Paeonia for itching. Two related peonies are used in Chinese medicine for vascular problems, headaches, and stomach and period pain.

Named after Paeon, the physician to the Greek gods, peony was used by the ancients in recipes for gallbladder and kidney complaints. At one time, it was said that peony must be picked only at night and then by means of a string attached to a dog, but the herbalist Gerard dismissed these "most superstitious and wicked ceremonies" as trifles. Native to southern Europe but widely distributed, it is a perennial with a large gnarled rootstock that sends up long stems with compound leaves in spring. The large attractive flowers have eight crinkled petals that are bright-red on opening but fade rapidly to pink.

PARTS USED

Root, petals.

ACTIVE INGREDIENTS

Benzoic acid; alkaloid; essential oil; heteroside.

ACTIONS

Constricts the blood vessels; reduces muscle tension and spasm; stimulates the muscles of the womb; promotes blood clotting.

MEDICINAL USE

In the past, it was given for convulsions and nervous conditions such as epilepsy. The Chinese use two related peonies (P. suffruticosa and P. albiflora) for vascular problems, headaches, and gastric and menstrual pain. Used in homeopathy (Paeonia) for itching.

PREPARATIONS

Dried root, petals.