# Kampo Shakuyaku (Paeonia lactiflora)

**Canonical URL:** https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/ingredients/kampo-shakuyaku
**Data Source:** Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia
**Updated:** 2026-03-19
**Evidence Score:** 8 / 10
**Category:** Traditional Chinese Medicine
**Also Known As:** Paeonia lactiflora, White Peony Root, Bai Shao, Chinese Peony, Peony Root, Paeonia Root, Radix Paeoniae Alba

## Overview

Paeonia lactiflora (white peony root) contains paeoniflorin as its primary bioactive compound, which modulates inflammatory pathways and [neurotransmitter activity](/ingredients/condition/cognitive). This traditional Kampo herb demonstrates anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects through inhibition of [pro-inflammatory cytokine](/ingredients/condition/inflammation)s and prostaglandin synthesis.

## Health Benefits

• [Anti-inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) effects suggested by in vitro and animal models (evidence quality: preliminary - no human clinical trials reported)
• Analgesic (pain-relieving) properties based on traditional use and preclinical studies (evidence quality: preliminary)
• Antioxidative activity attributed to monoterpenoid compounds (evidence quality: preliminary - mechanism-based only)
• Anti-allergic effects reported in traditional Kampo medicine usage (evidence quality: traditional use only)
• Blood sugar regulation support mentioned in traditional applications (evidence quality: traditional use only)

## Mechanism of Action

Paeoniflorin, the main monoterpene glycoside in Paeonia lactiflora, inhibits nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) signaling pathways, reducing production of inflammatory mediators like TNF-α and IL-6. The compound also modulates cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes and lipoxygenase pathways, decreasing [prostaglandin](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) E2 synthesis. Additional mechanisms include GABA receptor modulation and antioxidant activity through scavenging of [reactive oxygen species](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant).

## Clinical Summary

Current evidence for Paeonia lactiflora relies primarily on in vitro studies and animal models, with no published human clinical trials specifically evaluating isolated white peony root. Preclinical studies in rodent models demonstrate significant [anti-inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) effects with 50-200mg/kg doses reducing inflammatory markers by 30-60%. Traditional use data spans centuries in Japanese Kampo and Chinese medicine formulations. The evidence quality remains preliminary until human clinical trials are conducted.

## Nutritional Profile

Kampo Shakuyaku (Paeonia lactiflora) is a medicinal root, not a significant dietary source of macronutrients or micronutrients; its relevance lies in its bioactive phytochemical content. Primary bioactive compounds include: Paeoniflorin (monoterpenoid glycoside, primary active constituent, typically 2–4% dry weight of root; up to ~23 mg/g in standardized extracts), Albiflorin (~0.5–1.5% dry weight), Oxypaeoniflorin, Benzoylpaeoniflorin, and Paeonolide (all present in minor concentrations <0.5% dry weight). Paeonol (a phenolic compound, ~0.1–0.3% dry weight) contributes to antioxidative and [anti-inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) activity. Gallic acid and methyl gallate (hydrolyzable tannins) are present at approximately 0.1–0.5% dry weight. Total tannin content ranges approximately 3–8% dry weight. Polysaccharides (including peony polysaccharides) constitute approximately 5–15% dry weight and contribute [immunomodulatory](/ingredients/condition/immune-support) activity. Crude protein content is low (~5–8% dry weight, not nutritionally significant). Carbohydrates (starch and sugars) account for ~40–60% dry weight but are not bioactively relevant. Dietary fiber is present (~10–15% dry weight). Mineral content includes trace potassium, calcium, and magnesium at nutritionally negligible levels. Bioavailability notes: Paeoniflorin exhibits low oral bioavailability (~3–5% in animal models) due to poor intestinal absorption and extensive gut microbial [metabolism](/ingredients/condition/weight-management) to paeonimetabolin-I and related metabolites, which may themselves be pharmacologically active. Lipophilic compounds such as paeonol show comparatively higher absorption. Standardized Kampo preparations typically deliver a controlled dose of paeoniflorin as the marker compound.

## Dosage & Preparation

No clinically studied dosage ranges for standalone Shakuyaku extracts have been established in human trials. Japanese Pharmacopeia requires minimum 2.0% paeoniflorin content in peony root for Kampo use, but specific human dosing data is unavailable. When used in traditional Kampo formulas like Shimotsuto, paeoniflorin content varies but individual component doses are not quantified. Consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement.

## Safety & Drug Interactions

Paeonia lactiflora appears generally well-tolerated based on traditional use patterns, though comprehensive safety data is limited. Potential interactions may occur with anticoagulant medications due to possible effects on platelet aggregation. Gastrointestinal upset has been reported rarely with high doses in traditional medicine literature. Pregnancy and lactation safety has not been established through clinical studies, warranting caution in these populations.

## Scientific Research

The research dossier reveals a significant gap in human clinical evidence - no standalone randomized controlled trials, meta-analyses, or specific PubMed PMIDs were identified for Shakuyaku alone. Existing evidence is limited to phytochemical analyses, quality studies, and pharmacokinetic data from Kampo combination formulas like Shimotsuto, where paeoniflorin showed low oral bioavailability (Cmax 36.3 ng/mL, t1/2 1.48 h).

## Historical & Cultural Context

Shakuyaku has been a cornerstone of Japanese Kampo medicine, incorporated into one-third of all Kampo formulas for its [anti-inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation), analgesic, sedative, and anti-allergic properties. Its use traces back to traditional Chinese herbalism and has been cultivated in Japan for centuries using labor-intensive processing methods. The herb remains actively used in both Japanese Kampo and Chinese traditional medicine systems.

## Synergistic Combinations

Glycyrrhiza (licorice root), Ginger, Cinnamon, Jujube, Other Kampo herbs

## Frequently Asked Questions

### What is the active compound in Paeonia lactiflora?

Paeoniflorin is the primary bioactive monoterpene glycoside in Paeonia lactiflora, typically comprising 1-3% of the dried root. This compound is responsible for most of the herb's anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties documented in research studies.

### How much Paeonia lactiflora should I take daily?

Traditional Kampo formulations typically use 3-15 grams of dried Paeonia lactiflora root daily, often in combination with other herbs. However, no standardized dosing recommendations exist from clinical trials, as human studies have not been conducted with isolated white peony root.

### Can Paeonia lactiflora help with menstrual pain?

Traditional Kampo medicine uses Paeonia lactiflora in formulations like Shakuyaku-kanzo-to for menstrual discomfort, and preclinical studies suggest anti-spasmodic effects. However, no controlled clinical trials have specifically evaluated white peony root alone for menstrual pain relief.

### Is Paeonia lactiflora the same as tree peony?

No, Paeonia lactiflora (white peony) is an herbaceous perennial plant whose roots are used medicinally, while tree peony refers to Paeonia suffruticosa, a woody shrub. These are different species with distinct chemical profiles and traditional uses in herbal medicine.

### Does Paeonia lactiflora interact with blood thinners?

Theoretical interactions with anticoagulant medications are possible due to compounds in Paeonia lactiflora that may affect platelet function. Anyone taking warfarin, heparin, or other blood-thinning medications should consult their healthcare provider before using white peony supplements.

### Is Paeonia lactiflora safe during pregnancy and breastfeeding?

Paeonia lactiflora has been used in traditional Asian medicine for menstrual health, but safety data in pregnant and nursing women is limited. Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals should consult a healthcare provider before use, as some traditional texts suggest it may affect hormone levels. Current evidence does not support or contradict safety in these populations, making professional guidance essential.

### What does clinical research actually show about Paeonia lactiflora's anti-inflammatory effects?

Most evidence for Paeonia lactiflora's anti-inflammatory benefits comes from laboratory and animal studies, with no published human clinical trials demonstrating effectiveness in real-world conditions. While in vitro data suggests anti-inflammatory potential through paeonol and other compounds, the translation to human benefit remains unproven. More rigorous clinical research is needed before making claims about its efficacy for inflammatory conditions.

### Who is most likely to benefit from Paeonia lactiflora supplementation?

Paeonia lactiflora may be most relevant for individuals using it as part of traditional Kampo or Chinese herbal formulas for menstrual discomfort and hormone support, though evidence in these areas is primarily historical rather than from modern clinical trials. Those seeking anti-inflammatory or antioxidant support based on preclinical mechanisms should understand that human efficacy remains unestablished. People with estrogen-sensitive conditions or those taking hormonal medications should consult practitioners familiar with herb-drug interactions before use.

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