Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 1

Peony (Paeonia species) has a long history of use in traditional medicine, particularly in Chinese herbal medicine, where it is known as "Bai Shao" (white peony root) or "Chi Shao" (red peony root). In traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), peony is used to "nourish the blood" and "calm the liver," and it is often included in complex herbal formulas for various conditions, including oral health issues such as gum inflammation. Its use for gingivitis specifically is primarily based on its purported anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, as described in the classical TCM literature.

However, there is limited modern scientific research directly supporting the use of peony for gingivitis. A few in vitro studies have identified anti-inflammatory and antioxidant constituents in peony root extracts, such as paeoniflorin, which might theoretically be beneficial in reducing gum inflammation. Nonetheless, there is a lack of robust clinical trials or high-quality studies demonstrating efficacy in treating gingivitis specifically.

Overall, peony's use for gingivitis remains rooted in traditional practices rather than scientific validation. While it is sometimes found as an ingredient in herbal oral care products in East Asia, its direct impact on gingivitis in humans has not been conclusively established by contemporary research. Thus, the evidence supporting its use for this condition is weak and largely based on tradition.

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