The Health Benefits of Chi Shao Yao (Red Peony Root)
Chi Shao Yao, also known as Red Peony Root, is a prized herb in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) known for its myriad health benefits. Extracted from the root of the Paeonia lactiflora plant, this herb has been utilized for centuries to support overall well-being. Chi Shao Yao is renowned for its potent anti-inflammatory properties, which help in reducing swelling and alleviating pain. It is often employed in TCM to improve blood circulation, dispel blood stasis, and promote a healthy flow of qi throughout the body. This makes it particularly effective in addressing conditions such as menstrual irregularities, dysmenorrhea, and other gynecological disorders.
In addition to its circulatory benefits, Red Peony Root is celebrated for its ability to support liver health. It aids in detoxifying the liver and enhancing its functions, which is essential for maintaining overall vitality and balance within the body. The herb is also known to have antioxidant properties, protecting cells from damage and supporting the immune system. Furthermore, Chi Shao Yao is used to calm the mind and reduce stress, contributing to mental clarity and emotional stability. Its versatile nature and powerful health benefits make Chi Shao Yao a staple in herbal remedies aimed at promoting holistic health and well-being.
Herbal Information for Red Peony Root in Cut Form
Product Specifications
Common Name: Red Peony Root
Botanical Name: Radix Paeoniae Rubra
Channels/Meridians: Liver, Spleen
Pin Yin Name: Chi Shao Yao
Other Ingredients: None, nothing has been added to this product.
Package Size: One Pound (1 lb.)
Form: Cut / Sliced
Origin: China
Brand: Nuherbs Organic Brand
Cautions: Do not use if pregnant or nursing. Do not use in cases of amenorrhea are present.
Naturally Occurring Components: Aeoniflorin, oxy-paeoniflorin, benzoylpaooniflorin, albi-florin, paeoniflorigenone, galloylpaeoniflorin, z-1s, 5R-β-pinen-10-yl-β-vicianoside, lacioflorinm, paeoni-lactone A, B, C, β-siiosierol, and daucos-terol.
Summary of Chi Shao Yao Red Peony Root
- Benefits Coronary Blood Flow
- Clears Heat
- Cools Blood
- Dispels Blood Stasis
- Relieves Pain
Product Properties: Sour, Bitter, Slightly Cold
The organic cut form of red peony root from Nuherbs is perfect for making a tea or decoction. Chi Shao Yao is often used in alternative medicine for menstrual problems and can help to relieve a variety of ailments.
Differences Between Red Peony Root and White Peony Root
Red Peony Root (Chi Shao Yao) and White Peony Root (Bai Shao Yao), both derived from the Paeonia lactiflora plant, are distinguished primarily by their preparation methods and specific health benefits.
Red Peony Root (Chi Shao Yao):
- Preparation: Made from the dried root of the Paeonia lactiflora plant that is left unpeeled, giving it a reddish color.
- Properties: Known for its cooling and blood-invigorating properties.
- Uses: Primarily used to improve blood circulation, reduce inflammation, and alleviate pain. It is effective for conditions such as blood stasis, menstrual pain, and certain types of pain and swelling.
White Peony Root (Bai Shao Yao):
- Preparation: Made from the peeled and dried root of the same plant, resulting in a lighter color.
- Properties: Renowned for its nourishing and calming properties.
- Uses: Commonly used to nourish the blood, support liver health, and alleviate muscle spasms. It is particularly beneficial for conditions such as blood deficiency, menstrual irregularities, and issues related to the liver and spleen.
In summary, while both roots originate from the same plant, Red Peony Root is more focused on promoting circulation and reducing inflammation, whereas White Peony Root is better suited for nourishing blood and calming the body.
References:
https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/pharmacology-toxicology-and-pharmaceutical-science/radix-paeoniae-rubra
http://www.itmonline.org/arts/peony.htm
https://www.americandragon.com/Individualherbsupdate/ChiShao.html
https://asante-academy.com/encyclopedia/chi-shao-yao/
https://amethystacu.com/tcm-herb-peony-and-skin/
https://nuherbs.com/resources/modern-views-looking-at-bai-shao-vs-chi-shao-in-the-lab
Check out our How to Use Bulk Herbs page to see how to use herbs correctly. Our web page is constantly expanding, as of today we have articles on:
- How to make salves, poultice, tinctures, teas, capsules, gargles, and foot bathes
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Nuherbs
Each batch of herbs is dual-lab tested by in-house lab and independent third party lab. In-house lab is equipped with instruments such as a high performance liquid chromatograph, moisture determination meter, Fourier transform infrared spectrometer, atomic absorption spectrophotometer, gas chromatograph, etc.
In addition, the following additional tests are performed:
- Microbacteria
- Pesticides - over 200 pesticides tested for (Uab 2000 screen).
- Heavy Metals - Lead, Mercury and Arsenic
