Dried White Peony (Bai Shao Yao) | (500g)

About

Dried White Peony (Bai Shao Yao) belongs to the root of Paeonia lactiflora Pall, a perennial herbal plant of the Ranunculaceae family.

The white peony root is cold in nature and bitter and sour in flavour.

Bai Shao Yao comes from the same species as Dried Red Peony (Chi Shao), prepared differently, and is distinct again from Dried Peony Root Bark (Mu Dan Pi). It is classically combined with Dried Liquorice Root (Gan Cao) and Dried Angelica Root (Dang Gui).

Potential Benefits

Cooling: Described as cold in nature in traditional practice, and used accordingly in classic preparations.

Distinctive Profile: Its bitter and sour character is the reason it has been used for centuries alongside sweeter herbs.

Balance: Included in traditional blends intended to potentially encourage a sense of natural equilibrium.

Traditional Heritage: One of the most widely used roots in Chinese herbal formulas.

Versatile: Suits decoctions and slow cooked soups, usually as part of a blend rather than on its own.

Recommended Dosage

We recommend around 5g per portion.

The root is firm, so simmer it in water for twenty to thirty minutes rather than steeping briefly, then strain. It is bitter and sour, so it is usually paired with sweeter herbs that round it out, and can also be added to soups at the start of cooking.

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 White Peony (Bai Shao Yao)?
It is the dried root of Paeonia lactiflora, long used in Chinese preparations.

How is it different from Chi Shao?
Both come from the same plant species but are prepared differently, and the two are used distinctly in traditional preparations.

How do I prepare Bai Shao Yao?
Simmer around 5g in water for twenty to thirty minutes, then strain before drinking.

What does it taste like?
Bitter and sour, which is why it is usually blended with sweeter herbs rather than brewed alone.

Is it suitable for a plant-based diet?
Yes, it is entirely plant-derived and can be used in vegan and vegetarian preparations.