Health Guide

Paeoniflorin

Paeoniflorin is a bioactive compound found almost exclusively in the roots of the Peony flower (specifically *Paeonia lactiflora* or *Paeonia suffruticosa*). While you won't find it in your salad bowl, it is the powerhouse active ingredient in 'Bai Shao' (White Peony Root), a staple herb in Traditional Chinese Medicine. Think of it as nature’s calming agent and muscle relaxant. It helps your body manage stress, soothe physical tension, and supports metabolic health. Unlike a heavy sedative, it works gently to bring your body back into balance, making it a popular supplement for those dealing with fatigue, tension, or metabolic sluggishness.

Evidence BasedDietary Supplement

VERIFIED SOURCE

Bio-Activity Analysis

Paeoniflorin Bioavailability (Oral Intake)

SCIENTIFIC DATA VISUALIZATION

Y-Axis

Absorption Rate

Intake Method →

Health Benefits & Sources

Why You Need It

Natural Muscle Relaxant: It helps release tension in smooth muscles, making it excellent for relieving menstrual cramps and general stiffness.
Calms the Nervous System: It promotes relaxation without drowsiness, helping to manage anxiety and stress.
Supports Metabolic Health: Research suggests it plays a role in insulin sensitivity and lipid metabolism.

Deep Dive

Paeoniflorin works by modulating neurotransmitters and inhibiting inflammatory pathways. For women, it is highly regarded for its ability to ease menstrual discomfort by relaxing the uterine muscles. For everyone, it acts as a 'nervine'—a tonic for the nerves—helping to quiet the mind and reduce physical agitation. It is also gaining attention for its potential to support healthy blood sugar levels by improving how your cells respond to insulin.

Natural Food Sources

Unlike Vitamin C or Magnesium, Paeoniflorin is not found in common fruits or vegetables. It is a unique compound concentrated in the roots of the Peony plant. Therefore, the only practical 'food' source is the herb itself.

Food / Herb	Amount (Est.)	Source Type
White Peony Root (Bai Shao)	1.5% - 4%	Dried Herb / Tea
Tree Peony Root (Mu Dan Pi)	0.5% - 1.5%	Dried Herb
Peony Flower Petals	Trace	Fresh / Tea

Supplementation

Because you would need to eat pounds of peony root to get a therapeutic dose, supplementation is the standard method.

Standard Dosage: Clinical studies typically use 300mg to 600mg of pure Paeoniflorin extract daily.
Who should take it: Individuals suffering from menstrual pain, muscle tension, high stress levels, or those looking to support metabolic health naturally.

Top Food Sources

White Peony Root (Bai Shao)

The primary source; usually decocted into tea.

Tree Peony Root (Mu Dan Pi)

Often used in combination with Bai Shao.

Peony Extract Capsules

Most reliable way to get specific dosage.

Peony Honey

Contains trace amounts, but not therapeutic.

Canned Peony Roots

Processed for food, lower active compound content.

Frequently Asked Questions

No. The flower petals contain negligible amounts of Paeoniflorin. The highest concentration is found in the dried root. Furthermore, raw root is toxic and must be processed (boiled/steamed) to be safe.

It is a relaxant, not a sedative. It calms the nervous system and releases muscle tension, which often helps people sleep better, but it won't knock you out like a sleeping pill.

For acute issues like menstrual cramps, effects can be felt within a few hours. For metabolic or stress regulation, consistent use for 2–4 weeks is usually required.

Yes. While famous for women's health, it is equally effective for men dealing with stress, high blood pressure, and muscle spasms.

Safety & Side Effects

Paeoniflorin is generally considered safe and well-tolerated. However, safety depends on the source.

CRITICAL SAFETY WARNING: Never consume raw Peony root. It contains paeoniflorin alongside toxic compounds like paeoniflorin glycoside, which can be harmful if not processed correctly.

Side Effects: Mild dizziness or digestive upset can occur at high doses.
Interactions: It may have mild blood-thinning properties. Avoid taking it with anticoagulants (like Warfarin) without medical advice.
Pregnancy: Consult a doctor before use, though it is often used under guidance to support pregnancy health.

Scientific References

[1]Zhang, L., & Wei, W. (2020). 'Anti-inflammatory and immunoregulatory effects of paeoniflorin.' *Journal of Ethnopharmacology*.
[2]Li, Y., et al. (2019). 'Paeoniflorin ameliorates insulin resistance in skeletal muscle.' *Phytomedicine*.
[3]Wang, Y., et al. (2016). 'Paeoniflorin relaxes smooth muscle via inhibition of calcium channels.' *Planta Medica*.