Synopsis

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

Peony (Paeonia spp.) has a long history of use in traditional medicine systems, particularly in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), for the treatment of various ailments, including headache and tension-related symptoms. The root of the peony plant, known as Bai Shao (white peony root) or Chi Shao (red peony root), is often included in herbal formulas intended to "nourish the blood," "calm the liver," and alleviate pain, which can encompass headaches, especially those attributed to tension, stress, or "liver yang rising" in TCM theory. Historical texts and materia medica frequently cite peony's use for calming spasms, relaxing muscles, and reducing discomfort linked to headaches. However, direct scientific evidence supporting peony’s efficacy for tension headaches is limited. Modern pharmacological studies have identified compounds in peony, such as paeoniflorin, with anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, and neuroprotective properties, which might theoretically contribute to relief in headache conditions. Despite this, robust clinical trials specifically evaluating peony for tension headaches are lacking. Thus, its use for this condition is primarily justified by traditional usage rather than contemporary scientific validation. Overall, peony remains a staple in traditional formulations for headache, but more research is needed to confirm its effectiveness in this context according to modern standards.

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