Herbs (Global Traditional) · Japanese Kampo
Kampo Shakuyaku (Paeonia lactiflora) (Paeonia lactiflora)
Strong Evidencebotanical
Hermetica Superfood Encyclopedia
Paeonia lactiflora (white peony root) contains paeoniflorin as its primary bioactive compound, which modulates inflammatory pathways and neurotransmitter activity. This traditional Kampo herb demonstrates anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects through inhibition of pro-inflammatory cytokines and prostaglandin synthesis.
Kampo Shakuyaku is the dried root of Paeonia lactiflora (peony root), a perennial herb native to East Asia that has been cultivated in Japan for centuries. The roots are processed through methods like low-temperature storage or slicing to preserve active compounds, particularly paeoniflorin which must exceed 2.0% content per Japanese Pharmacopeia standards. Traditional extraction involves decoction in Kampo formulas or solvent extraction, yielding monoterpenes, glycosides, and flavonoids.
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).
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.
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 E2 synthesis. Additional mechanisms include GABA receptor modulation and antioxidant activity through scavenging of reactive oxygen species.
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 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.
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.
