Evidence supporting the use of: Chinese peony
For the health condition: Chills

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Chinese peony (Paeonia lactiflora) has a long history of use in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), where it is known as "Bai Shao." In TCM, chills (often associated with disharmony between Yin and Yang or invasion by external "cold") may be addressed with herbal formulas containing Chinese peony. The herb is typically used to "nourish the blood," "preserve the Yin," and "soften the liver," according to classical texts. Although not targeted at chills as an isolated symptom, Chinese peony is included in compound formulas (e.g., Gui Zhi Tang) that are prescribed for conditions presenting with chills and fever, such as "wind-cold" invasions.

Despite frequent use in traditional practices, there is little to no direct scientific evidence that Chinese peony or its extracts specifically reduce chills in the context of infections or other chill-inducing conditions. Most modern research on Chinese peony focuses on its anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, and antispasmodic properties rather than thermoregulation or fever/chill management. As such, the support for its use in chills is primarily based on historical and traditional paradigms rather than clinical trials or biomedical research. Therefore, while it remains a staple in TCM for related symptom patterns, the evidence for its effectiveness in treating chills specifically is best characterized as traditional and limited in strength.

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