Bai Shao (White Peony Root) – Paeonia lactiflora
Bai Shao (Paeonia lactiflora), also known as White Peony Root, is a traditional herb used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). For centuries, it has been valued for its ability to nourish the blood, preserve yin, and soften the Liver, helping restore balance when patterns of deficiency, tension, and disharmony arise in the body.
In classical Chinese herbal medicine, Bai Shao is commonly included in formulas designed to nourish blood, support the Liver and Spleen, moderate spasms, and maintain internal balance.
At Plum Dragon Herbs, we offer carefully sourced premium Bai Shao bulk herb selected for quality, potency, and traditional authenticity.
Our herbs are ideal for:
• Herbal practitioners
• Custom herbal formulas
• Decoctions and teas
• Practitioner herb packs
Learn More About This Herb
Want to explore the traditional classification, channels, and historical use of this herb in greater depth?
Traditional Uses of Bai Shao in Chinese Medicine
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, Bai Shao is classified as a Blood-Tonifying Herb. Traditionally, it is used to:
• Nourish the blood
• Preserve yin
• Soften and harmonize the Liver
• Moderate spasms and discomfort
• Support balance in deficiency patterns
In classical herbal theory, Bai Shao enters the Liver and Spleen channels, where it helps restore balance when blood deficiency, tension, or internal disharmony disrupt normal physiological function.
Because of these properties, Bai Shao is one of the most widely used herbs in traditional Chinese medicine.
Herbs Often Used With Bai Shao
Bai Shao is frequently combined with other herbs in traditional Chinese formulas, including:
• Dang Gui – nourishes and invigorates the blood
• Chuan Xiong – promotes blood movement
• Gan Cao – moderates spasms and harmonizes formulas
• Shu Di Huang – strongly nourishes blood and yin
These herbs are commonly used together to create balanced formulas supporting blood nourishment and internal harmony.
Modern Research on Paeonia lactiflora
Modern research has identified naturally occurring compounds in Paeonia lactiflora, including paeoniflorin and related constituents, which have been studied for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity.
Scientific interest in this herb has explored potential roles in supporting:
• Healthy inflammatory response
• Digestive comfort
• Women’s wellness
• Protection against oxidative stress
While research continues, this herb remains primarily valued within the framework of Traditional Chinese Medicine.
Premium Quality Bai Shao
High-quality Bai Shao should display several identifiable characteristics:
• Cream to pale white root slices
• Smooth, clean appearance
• Dense but not brittle texture
• Mild earthy aroma
At Plum Dragon Herbs, our herbs are carefully selected and properly processed to preserve their traditional qualities.
Origin and Harvesting
Paeonia lactiflora is cultivated in China and other parts of Asia. The medicinal portion used in Chinese herbal medicine is the root.
Traditionally:
• Roots are harvested after several years of growth
• Cleaned thoroughly
• Dried and sliced
• Prepared for herbal use
How Bai Shao is Traditionally Used
Bai Shao may be prepared in several traditional ways.
Decoction
Simmer 6–15 grams in approximately 500 ml of water for 30 minutes.
Herbal Formulas
Bai Shao is widely used in traditional Chinese herbal formulas.
Herbal Tea
Steep smaller amounts in hot water for a lighter preparation.
Always consult a qualified healthcare practitioner for dosage and individualized guidance.
Safety and Precautions
This herb should be used appropriately according to individual constitution.
Use caution if:
• Pregnant or breastfeeding
• Taking blood-thinning medications
• Experiencing loose stools or digestive weakness
• Using without professional guidance
Consult a qualified healthcare practitioner before using herbal products.
Additional Information
Botanical Name: Paeonia lactiflora
Common Names: Bai Shao, White Peony Root, Radix Paeoniae Alba
Flavor: Bitter, sour
Temperature: Cool
Channels Entered:
• Liver
• Spleen
Contraindications:
Use caution in cases of significant digestive weakness or deficiency cold. Traditional use should be guided by constitution and formula context.
Why Choose Plum Dragon Herbs?
At Plum Dragon Herbs, we specialize in authentic Chinese medicinal herbs sourced for quality and potency. Our herbs are selected and processed according to traditional standards to support the needs of practitioners, herbalists, martial artists, and enthusiasts alike.
Experience the tradition and quality of authentic Chinese herbs from Plum Dragon Herbs.
Important Disclaimer
The information provided on this page reflects traditional herbal knowledge and historical use within Chinese medicine and is intended for educational purposes only.
Plum Dragon Herbs products are raw botanical materials and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
Statements on this website have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using herbal products, particularly if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medications, or have a medical condition.
