Single Herb Glossary
Chì Sháo 赤芍
| Pharmaceutical name | Paeoniae Radix rubra red peony root "red peony" |
| Category | Invigorate Blood |
| Key Properties | Invigorates the blood Transforms stasis, Stops pain, Cools heat in the blood |
| Properties | Sour Bitter Slightly Cold |
| Tropism | LV, SP |
| Actions & Indications | 1) Invigorates Blood & Dispels Blood Stasis 2) Clears Heat & Cools the Blood (purple rash (macule/papule), purple tongue, bleeding, confusion, delirium, LV Fire) |
| Dosages | 6-15g |
| Contraindications (TCM) | Caution in those with cold from deficiency |
| Contraindications (Western) | |
| Chemical Composition | Paeoniflorin, benzoylpaeoniflorin, oxypaeoniflorin, lactiflorin, daucosterol, d-catechin |
| Pharmacological Effects | • Antiplatelet: demonstrated effectiveness to inhibit platelet aggregation in rabbits • Hematological: has been shown to inhibit thrombus formation in rats • Cardiovascular: reduces blood pressure and dilates coronary artery; it does not, however, influence heart rate; increased resistance to hypoxia is also observed in animals • Antispasmodic: inhibitory effect on smooth muscles of intestines and uterus as demonstrated in rats and guinea pigs • Effects on the central nervous system: paeoniflorin has mild sedative, antiseizure and antipyretic effects as demonstrated in animal models • Antibiotic: inhibitory effect against Salmonella typhi, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, E. coli, S. aureus, β-hemolytic streptococcus, Diplococcus pneumoniae, Vibrio cholerae, and some dermatophytes and viruses |
| Herb-Drug Interactions | • Anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs: herb has antiplatelet action, should be used with caution in patients who take anticoagulant or antiplatelet med ications; may potentiate effect of drugs such as warfarin • Incompatible with Li Lu (Veratri nigri Radix et Rhizoma) |
| Classical Formula(s) |
This information is a reference tool for Chinese herbal studies. It is not intended to replace professional medical advice. Please consult a primary health professional if you require health advisory.