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About our Dried Peony Root Bark
About
Dried Peony Root Bark (Mu Dan Pi) is an acrid, bitter and slightly cold herb used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM).
It is typically harvested and collected in Autumn.
Mu Dan Pi has a fragrant smell with a slightly bitter and astringent taste.
It is the root bark of the tree peony, distinct from the peony roots we also stock as Dried White Peony (Bai Shao Yao) and Dried Red Peony (Chi Shao), and is classically combined with Dried Rehmannia Root (Sheng Di Huang).
Potential Benefits
Cooling: Mu Dan Pi has long been valued in traditional practices as a cooling ingredient.
Balance: Included in traditional blends intended to potentially encourage a sense of natural equilibrium.
Aromatic: Its fragrant character sets it apart from other barks and roots in the range.
Distinctive Profile: The acrid, bitter and astringent taste is the reason it has been used for centuries in classic preparations.
Versatile: Suits decoctions on its own or blended with other roots from the range.
Recommended Dosage
We recommend around 5g per portion.
The bark is firm, so break it into smaller pieces and simmer in water for twenty to thirty minutes rather than steeping briefly, then strain before drinking. It is usually used as part of a blend rather than on its own, given how pronounced the flavour is.
Not suitable during pregnancy. If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking anticoagulant medication, or due to have surgery, speak to a healthcare professional before use.
Store in an airtight container in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight.
Why Choose Vita?
Every herb we sell at Vita Herbal Nutrition is non-sulphur treated and chosen for use in the kitchen and in traditional preparation.
We offer a 100% sulphur-free herb range. Many others use sulphur to enhance appearance and extend shelf life, but this can alter the herb’s natural properties and cause allergic reactions in some individuals.
We follow the DaoDi principle of choosing each herb from the area traditionally associated with it, and we have worked with the same supply partners since 2010.
FAQ
What is Dried Peony Root Bark (Mu Dan Pi)?
It is the dried root bark of the tree peony, used in Chinese preparations for centuries.
How is it different from Bai Shao and Chi Shao?
Bai Shao and Chi Shao are the roots of herbaceous peonies, while Mu Dan Pi is the root bark of the tree peony. All three are distinct ingredients.
How do I prepare Mu Dan Pi?
Break it into pieces and simmer for twenty to thirty minutes, then strain before drinking.
What does it taste like?
Fragrant with a bitter, astringent edge and a slightly acrid character.
Is it suitable for a plant-based diet?
Yes, it is entirely plant-derived and can be used in vegan and vegetarian preparations.

