Description :
Peonies are herbaceous perennial plants native to Europe, Asia, and western North America. They grow to between 1 and 3 feet tall with compound, dark green, deeply lobed leaves that are about 8 to 12 inches long. Red, white, purple, white, and yellow cup-shaped flowers bloom in late spring and early summer but only for 7 to 10 days. The fruit consists of horizontally spreading follicles that split open when mature. The roots are tuberous and shallow.
History and Folklore:
Ancient superstition dictated that you must be very careful not to be seen by a woodpecker while picking Peony fruit, or the bird might peck out your eyes. In the middle ages it was used to protect against the evil eye. American Hoodoo magic claims that it is a protection against misfortune.
Cultivation and Harvest:
Harvest the roots in the autumn from cultivated plants that are 4 – 5 years old. Clean the roots well with water and set out of the sun to dry. Harvest the roots of wild plants in the autumn, clean with water and dry them out of the sun. Dried roots can be cut, ground, and powdered for later use in teas, tinctures, capsules, and so on.
Precautions:
Do not use while pregnant. Do not take if breastfeeding. Do not give to children. Caution advised in combination with blood thinners.
Traditional Herbal Actions:
Alterative, Analgesic, Anodyne, Antibacterial, Anti-inflammatory, Antiseptic, Antispasmodic, Astringent, Carminative, Diuretic, Emmenagogue, Expectorant, Nervine
Other Names:
Common Garden Peony, Chinese Peony, Peony, Red Peony, Tree Peony, Bai Shao Yao (China)
Tincture Ingredients: White Peony Root (Paeonia lactiflora)
*These statements have not been verified by the FDA and is only referenced here as a fun fact and/or for historical commentary, is not to be used as medical advice in any way. Consult your doctor before ingesting any herbal product.
None of these items or statements are approved by FDA. Consult your physician before taking any supplement. Do not take herbs or tinctures during pregnancy without consulting your healthcare provider. This product is not intended to diagnose or treat any disease. All information here is for entertainment and educational purposes only.
Daniel –