Botanical Overview
Moutan (Paeonia suffruticosa) belongs to the Paeoniaceae family. While not among the most extensively documented medicinal plants, this species has recorded uses that warrant attention from researchers and practitioners. This species belongs to the Paeoniaceae family, a group of flowering plants.
General Description
The common name used in China is mǔdān or Moutan peony. Cultivars of this group have been cultivated in Chinese floriculture for millennia, initially only as a source of traditional Chinese medicine, particularly for the skin of their roots. Already early on, the plant was also cultivated for its ornamental value, and it is highly revered in Chinese culture.
Family Context
The Paeoniaceae family is widely distributed. Notable medicinal members include:
- Double Peony — 21 documented uses
- Moutan — 18 documented uses
- Chih-Shao — 11 documented uses
- Paeonia japonica — 4 documented uses
Geographic Distribution
Moutan has been recorded in 10 countries and territories worldwide, including China, Germany, Spain, United Kingdom, Japan, and others.
Traditional Uses
Moutan has been traditionally used for pain and inflammation, fever management, and cardiovascular health, among other applications.
Pain and inflammation.
- Anodyne
For pain and inflammation, preparations are applied both topically as compresses and taken internally. A warm poultice draws blood to the area and promotes healing, while internal preparations address systemic inflammation.
Fever management.
- Fever
Febrifuge preparations are typically administered as hot teas to induce perspiration, which helps the body regulate temperature. The patient is kept warm and encouraged to rest while the herb promotes sweating.
Cardiovascular health.
- Hypertension
- Hemostatic
Active Compounds
Phytochemical research has identified 30 compounds in this species, including a diverse array of phytochemical classes (see the Complete Chemical Inventory below for the full list).
The identified compounds include the following categories:
- Flavonoid: antioxidant compounds that protect cells from oxidative damage
- Sterol: cholesterol-like compounds with anti-inflammatory properties
- Tannin: astringent compounds that tighten tissues and resist infection