Paeonia officinalis, commonly known as the peony, stands out both for the spectacular nature of its flowers and for its deep roots in traditional European and Asian medicine. A national symbol in China and valued since ancient times, this plant fascinates with its diverse popular names and its bioactive compounds with multiple therapeutic applications. Let's delve deeper into the peony, covering its botany, properties, history, and its traditional and modern uses.
What is Paeonia officinalis and what is its importance?
Paeonia officinalis It is a perennial and herbaceous plant that belongs to the family paeoniaceae. It grows from a woody underground rhizome and can reach up to 70 centimeters in height, rarely exceeding this size. The species is native to Europe, especially common in Mediterranean and Central European regions. The peony is internationally recognized, having played a central role as a national flower in China, a symbol of prosperity and beauty in Eastern culture.
It stands out for the peculiar morphology of its leaves: the lower (basal) leaves are large, divided two to three times into numerous lanceolate segments, often lobed, and with a pubescent underside. The petioles are markedly grooved. The upper leaves, on the other hand, are smaller and have fewer divisions, sometimes even being simple.
The flowers are spectacular, with a width up to 13 centimetersThey are composed of five to ten deep red, oval-shaped petals with wavy edges, accompanied by arched sepals that do not droop over the leaves. The cluster is completed by numerous stamens with red filaments and yellow anthers, as well as two or three woolly carpels measuring 3 to 5 centimeters, which, when mature, produce follicles with several seeds.
Diversity of common names of Paeonia officinalis
The cultural richness of the peony is reflected in the enormous variety of names it has received throughout history and in different regions of Spain and Europe. In addition to being known as peony or peonia, it also has the following names:
- Chilli onion
- Churri onion
- Albardera rose
- Shitty rose
- Celonia
- Rose of alexandria
- Pentecost rose
- Coca, Cocas
- Rose of Santa Clara
- Rose of saint mary
- Emapine, Instep
- Lizard rose
- Mount rose
- Damn flower
- Lizard flower
- Squash
- Devil flower
- Cursed flower
- Realgar flowers
- Realgar Rose
- Scabies rose
- Chaste grass
- Santa Rosa grass
- Devil's rose
- Cursed rose
- Swelling
- Wild iris, Lilies
- Double flower peony
- Female peony
- Peronia, Perruna, Peónica
- Pionia, Pionia of the thickets
- Eye burner
- Mountain rose, Wild rose, Mountain rose
- Eye jump
- tufona
These names reflect its widespread traditional use and the variety of contexts in which the plant has been used, in addition to its presence in mythology and popular culture on the peninsula.
Main medicinal properties and benefits of Paeonia officinalis
Peony stands out for its active phytochemical compounds Among these, paeonol, paeoniflorin, and anthocyanosides stand out. Each of these elements provides specific benefits:
- Paeonol: analgesic, antacid, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antiulcer.
- Anthocyanosides: powerful vasoprotective and venotonic, promoting blood circulation.
- Paeoniflorina: analgesic, anticonvulsant, antitussive, hypnotic, sedative, with mild spasmolytic effect.
The anti-inflammatory and analgesic activity makes Paeonia officinalis a valuable resource for the treatment of:
- Anxiety and tachycardia
- Irritative cough and mild respiratory conditions
- Gastritis and gastroduodenal ulcers
- Varicose veins and hemorrhoids
- Relief from muscle aches and cramps (especially in combination with other herbs, such as licorice in the traditional Japanese formula Shakuyaku-kanzoh-to)
According to practices of the Chinese traditional medicinePeony root has been used in decoctions to treat autoimmune conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, viral hepatitis, dysmenorrhea, muscle spasms, cramps, and fever. To expand your knowledge of its uses, you can also consult our guide on peony care.
Recent studies corroborate that paeoniflorin has neuroprotective effects, helping to improve cognitive function, memory, and mood. This compound is believed to inhibit monoamine oxidase (MAO), which helps regulate neurotransmitters in the brain and reduce oxidative stress, offering potential benefits for preventing neurodegenerative disorders.
The hepatoprotective action of peony is linked to its ability to reduce bilirubin levels and improve liver function, making it an ally against liver diseases.
Other medicinal, cosmetic and traditional uses of peony
La peony It's not limited to oral or internal use. Its extract is used in natural cosmetics, especially in products for sensitive skin and irritated scalps thanks to its soothing and moisturizing action. If you'd like to expand your knowledge in this field, we also recommend consulting the best flowers for spring and summer.
In folk medicine in different regions of Spain, the root and flowers of the peony have been used in preparations for epilepsy (alferecÃa), as well as to treat cramps, neuralgia, and certain menstrual or gynecological disorders. Syrups, ointments, and decoctions have been prepared for a variety of conditions, although The traditional use of seeds as an emetic and the consumption of flowers as a laxative purgative are not recommended today., due to its potential toxicity.
Traditionally, the root was considered a protective amulet, placed around the necks of children to prevent unexplained illnesses, and was cited in classical texts as a remedy for nightmares and bouts of madness. In Christian culture, the plant was associated with saints such as Saint George, connecting with ancient legends and archetypes linked to protection and the fight against evil.
In cosmetics, paeony is used for its soothing properties, making it ideal for sensitive, irritated, and inflammatory skin. Specialized brands use its extract to create shampoos, masks, and lotions. Furthermore, compounds such as paeonyflorin have been shown to reduce wrinkles with sustained topical applications and improve skin healing, especially in cases of anal fissures and other skin problems.
Precautions and possible side effects
the peony It is generally considered safe when used short-term and under professional supervision. However, prolonged use or use in high doses can cause gastrointestinal discomfort (nausea, diarrhea, abdominal pain), skin reactions in sensitive individuals, and reduced blood clotting, which increases the risk of bruising and bleeding. For more information, see also most beautiful plants in the world.
It is contraindicated in:
- Pregnancy: It can induce uterine contractions and carries a risk of abortion.
- Breastfeeding and young children: lack of safety studies.
- People on anticoagulant therapy or medications that affect coagulation: risk of bleeding.
Currently, there is no standard safe dosage for adults or children, so it is recommended to always consult a healthcare professional before consuming it in any form, especially in supplements or home remedies.
Distribution, habitat and other varieties of peony
La Paeonia officinalis It grows wild in meadows, forest clearings, and mountainous areas, mainly in the Mediterranean region and Central Europe. It is commonly found in oak forests, although it can also appear in semi-open areas with rich, slightly moist soils. To learn about other varieties, we invite you to visit our section on oak trees. types of peonies.
Within the diversity of the genre Paeonia, there are other closely related species and subspecies:
- Paeonia officinalis L. subsp. humilis
- Paeonia officinalis L. subsp. officinalis
- Paeonia mascula
- Paeonia lactiflora
- Paeonia suffruticosa
- paeonia coriacea
These varieties may differ in color, flower size, and habitat, but they share similar general properties and applications, especially in traditional European and Asian medicine.
Etymology and historical data on the peony
The term Paeonia refers to Peon, the doctor of the gods in Greek mythology, who in the Iliad and Odisea He healed Ares after he was wounded in the Trojan War, and Hades after the attack of Heracles. Pliny the Elder and Dioscorides already mentioned the peony as a magical and medicinal plant, recommending it for various ailments and protections. To understand more about its legends, consult our section on The meaning and secrets of the bridal veil flower.
With the arrival of Christianity, the plant was associated with saints, such as the rose of Saint Clare or the flower of Saint George. In the Middle Ages, peony roots were often placed around children's necks as a talisman against illness and nightmares.
La Paeonia officinalis It continues to captivate with its beauty and versatility: its flowers adorn gardens, and its root, when used properly and under professional supervision, offers a range of applications ranging from health care, cosmetics, and emotional well-being. However, its use requires responsibility and knowledge, given the potency of its active compounds and the possible associated interactions or contraindications. Exploring the peony is like delving into a plant steeped in history, culture, and therapeutic promise.
