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Paeonia Suffruticosa Extract

Also known as: Paeonia suffruticosa Andrews, Moutan Peony, Tree Peony, Paeonia suffruticosa

Overview

Paeonia suffruticosa extract, primarily derived from the root bark (Moutan cortex), is a botanical ingredient with a long history of use in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). Its inclusion in the European Pharmacopoeia Supplement in 2018 signifies its growing recognition in official pharmacopeias. This extract is valued for its diverse pharmacological properties, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, cytoprotective, cardioprotective, anti-cancer, anti-atherosclerotic, anti-diabetic, and hepatoprotective effects. It also finds applications in dermatology and cosmetology for addressing chronic dermatitis, anti-aging, and skin brightening. While research maturity is moderate to advanced with numerous pharmacological studies and some systematic reviews, high-quality clinical trial data specifically on *P. suffruticosa* extract remain limited. Much of the clinical evidence often refers to related compounds like total glucosides of paeony (TGP) from *Paeonia lactiflora*, a closely related species, due to shared active constituents such as paeonol and paeoniflorin.

Benefits

Paeonia suffruticosa extract offers several evidence-based benefits, primarily driven by its active compounds like paeonol and paeoniflorin. Its anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects are notable; systematic reviews and meta-analyses on total glucosides of paeony (TGP), predominantly from *Paeonia lactiflora*, demonstrate efficacy as an add-on treatment for chronic urticaria, reducing symptoms and recurrence rates with a good safety profile. This suggests similar potential benefits for *P. suffruticosa* due to shared active compounds. The extract also exhibits strong antioxidant and cytoprotective effects, with constituents like paeonol protecting cells from oxidative stress and inflammation, which is relevant for cardiovascular and hepatic health. Preliminary evidence suggests *P. suffruticosa* extract may modulate estrogen levels through phytoestrogens and support adrenal and thyroid health, potentially aiding hormonal balance and stress response, though clinical evidence for this is limited and mostly preclinical. In cosmetology, documented pharmacological studies support its use for anti-aging, skin brightening, and improving dermatitis.

How it works

The therapeutic actions of Paeonia suffruticosa extract are primarily mediated by its main bioactive compounds, paeonol and paeoniflorin. These compounds exert their effects through multiple mechanisms. They demonstrate significant antioxidant activity by scavenging free radicals, thereby protecting cells from oxidative damage. Their anti-inflammatory properties stem from their ability to inhibit pro-inflammatory cytokines and modulate inflammatory signaling pathways. Paeoniflorin, in particular, influences immune cell activity, contributing to its immunomodulatory effects and potential relief in immune-related skin conditions. Additionally, the extract may exhibit phytoestrogenic activity, allowing it to interact with estrogen receptors and potentially influence hormonal balance. While paeonol is lipophilic and absorbed systemically, contributing to its bioavailability, detailed human pharmacokinetics require further study.

Side effects

Paeonia suffruticosa extracts are generally considered safe for use in cosmetic and medicinal contexts at typical doses. Common side effects are rare, but topical application may occasionally lead to mild allergic reactions or skin irritation. No significant drug interactions or contraindications have been firmly established. However, caution is advised when combining the extract with immunosuppressants or hormone therapies due to the potential for additive effects, although specific interactions are not well-documented. Safety data from systematic reviews on related total glucosides of paeony (TGP) extracts, primarily from *Paeonia lactiflora*, consistently show good tolerability in clinical settings, reinforcing the overall safety profile. Users should discontinue use if any adverse reactions occur and consult a healthcare professional, especially if they have pre-existing conditions or are on other medications.

Dosage

Specific dosing guidelines for *Paeonia suffruticosa* extract in humans are not well-established due to the limited number of dedicated clinical trials. Information on dosage is often extrapolated from studies on total glucosides of paeony (TGP), which are primarily derived from *Paeonia lactiflora*. For instance, TGP studies for chronic urticaria typically use oral doses around 600 mg/day. However, it is crucial to note that this dosage may not directly translate to *P. suffruticosa* extracts due to potential differences in active compound concentrations and bioavailability. For topical formulations, concentrations vary widely depending on cosmetic product standards and desired effects. Absorption of the extract's lipophilic compounds, such as paeonol, may be enhanced when formulated in lipid-based carriers. There are no firmly established upper limits or safety thresholds for *P. suffruticosa* extract, and users should adhere to product-specific recommendations or consult a healthcare professional.

FAQs

Is Paeonia suffruticosa extract effective for hormonal balance?

Preliminary data suggest potential benefits for hormonal balance via phytoestrogenic effects and support for adrenal/thyroid function. However, robust clinical trials specifically on *P. suffruticosa* for this purpose are currently lacking.

Is it safe for long-term use?

Available data indicate a good safety profile, especially in topical applications and as an add-on in clinical trials for related extracts. Long-term safety in specific populations or high doses requires further research.

When can benefits be expected?

Clinical effects in immune-related conditions may require several weeks of continuous use. For cosmetic benefits, such as anti-aging or skin brightening, visible improvements typically appear after several weeks of consistent topical application.

Research Sources

https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/pharmacology/articles/10.3389/fphar.2022.961371/full – This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated the efficacy and safety of total glucosides of paeony (TGP), primarily from *Paeonia lactiflora*, as an add-on therapy for chronic urticaria. It concluded that TGP significantly reduces urticaria symptoms and recurrence rates with a good safety profile, providing indirect support for the anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory potential of related *Paeonia* extracts.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9739549/ – This systematic review summarized the documented antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, and cardioprotective effects of compounds found in *Paeonia suffruticosa*. It highlighted that while many studies are preclinical or in vitro, they collectively demonstrate the broad pharmacological potential of the extract's constituents.
https://www.cir-safety.org/sites/default/files/PaeoniaSuffruticosa.pdf – This literature review, conducted by the Cosmetic Ingredient Review, assessed the safety of *Paeonia suffruticosa* extracts in cosmetic applications. It confirmed their safety, noting minimal adverse effects and good tolerability, particularly in topical use, based on available data.
https://www.wellgreenherb.com/knowledge/can-paeonia-suffruticosa-extract-be-used-for-hormonal-balance – This article discusses preliminary evidence suggesting *Paeonia suffruticosa* extract's potential role in hormonal balance, primarily through its phytoestrogenic activity and possible support for adrenal and thyroid function. It notes that while promising, robust clinical evidence is still needed to confirm these effects in humans.