What are the functions and effects of white peony root?

The effect of white peony can be manifested in the treatment and prevention of some diseases. Its effect on the cardiovascular system is more obvious. It can help us dilate coronary arteries, lower blood pressure, and also help with beauty and skin care.

1. Effects on the cardiovascular system

Dilate coronary arteries and lower blood pressure (d-catechin and ethyl gallate have anti-thrombotic and anti-platelet aggregation effects).

2. Liver protection

It has a significant protective effect on liver damage caused by carbon tetrachloride, aflatoxin B1, and D-galactosamine.

3. Antispasmodic effect

It has an inhibitory effect on the motility of the intestine and stomach in situ, and significantly counteracts the uterine contraction caused by oxytocin.

4. Analgesic effect

It can inhibit the writhing, screaming, and hot plate reaction of mice, has a synergistic effect with morphine in inhibiting the writhing reaction, and can counteract the convulsions caused by pentylenetetrazol.

5. Beauty and skin care effects

The efficacy and function of white peony root is a relatively widespread TCM beauty method. Perhaps the most widely used is the Sanbai Decoction recorded in the Ming Dynasty (16th century) medical work "Introduction to Medicine": "5 grams each of white peony root, Atractylodes macrocephala, and white Poria cocos, 2.5 grams of licorice, decocted in water and taken warm."

This prescription was originally used to treat typhoid fever and restlessness, but later it was found to be able to replenish qi and blood, whiten and moisturize the skin, and thus became popular among the people.