Red Peony Root
This product is the dried root of Paeonia lactiflora Pall. or Paeonia veitchii Lynch, both from the buttercup family. Harvested in spring or autumn, remove rhizomes, fibrous roots, and soil, then sun-dry.
【Appearance】Cylindrical, slightly curved, 5–40cm long, 0.5–3cm in diameter. Surface brownish-red, rough, with longitudinal grooves and wrinkles, numerous root scars and horizontal protrusions (lenticels), outer skin often sheds easily. Hard and brittle, easily broken, fracture shows white or pinkish powder, narrow cortex, distinct radiating wood pattern, sometimes with cracks. Slight fragrance, slightly bitter and astringent taste.
【Taste & Meridian Affinity】Bitter, slightly cold. Enters liver meridian.
【Function & Indications】Clears heat and cools blood, disperses stasis and relieves pain. Used for heat-toxin eruption, hematemesis, epistaxis, red eyes and swelling, liver stagnation and rib pain, menstrual blockage and dysmenorrhea, abdominal pain due to masses, trauma injuries, carbuncles and sores.
【Dosage & Administration】6–12g.
【Caution】Should not be used together with Veratrum.
【Storage】Store in a well-ventilated, dry place.
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