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.

This is cultivated widely across China, with major production provinces located in Zhejiang, Anhui and Sichuan.

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?

At Vita Herbal Nutrition, we focus on providing premium quality herbs, carefully chosen to support your journey and elevate your cooking.

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.

Our herbs are sourced from authentic DaoDi-grown Chinese plants, cultivated in pristine environments to guarantee purity, potency, and sustainability. Through our trusted partnerships since 2010, we select herbs from their ideal growing regions and harvest them at the right time for maximum efficacy.

Using modern processing techniques, we ensure the integrity of each herb, so you receive the highest quality herbal supplements.

FAQ

What is Dried White Peony (Bai Shao Yao)?
It is the dried root of Paeonia lactiflora, grown mainly in Zhejiang, Anhui and Sichuan, and 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.