The use of Chinese peony (Paeonia lactiflora) in the management of hepatitis is primarily rooted in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) practices. In TCM, Chinese peony—often as part of complex herbal formulas like "Xiao Yao San" or "Shu Gan Wan"—is believed to "nourish the blood," "soothe the liver," and reduce inflammation. Historically, it has been used to address symptoms associated with liver dysfunction, including hepatitis, by restoring yin and alleviating pain or spasms.

Modern pharmacological studies have identified certain bioactive compounds in Chinese peony, such as paeoniflorin, which exhibit anti-inflammatory and hepatoprotective effects in animal models. For instance, paeoniflorin has demonstrated the ability to reduce markers of liver injury and oxidative stress in rodents with chemically induced liver damage. However, direct clinical evidence in human hepatitis patients is limited and generally of low methodological quality. Most studies are preclinical, and rigorous randomized controlled trials in humans are lacking.

In summary, while Chinese peony has a long history of traditional use for liver ailments including hepatitis, scientific validation in humans remains insufficient. Its use for hepatitis is therefore justified mainly by tradition, with preliminary but inconclusive preclinical scientific support.