Peony Facts
Many gardens feature these attractive shrub-like plants with soft, round blooms, but there is more than just good looks to the plant, as these peony facts will show.
The peony is a plant that is indigenous to China, where they have been present for over 2,000 years. It was the Chinese people in ancient days that discovered that the peony had more to offer than just beautiful blooms. Every part of the plant; roots, bark, flowers, seeds; all were used in some form of medical treatment. Scientific peony facts from Chinese medicinal history indicate that there are three applications commonly used that include parts from the flower. One variety of peonies, the tree peony, was valued for its bark, which was used to make Mu Dan Pi, an antibacterial preparation as well as being thought to cool the blood. Another variety is an herbaceous peony, from which the root and bark are combined and used mainly as a pain reliever but also to cool the blood. Additionally, from the same herbaceous peony root minus the bark the Chinese made Bai Shao Yao; a preparation believed to nourish the blood. Japanese medical professionals have also made use of the peony root in treating convulsions, menstrual cramps and asthma.
The Chinese and Japanese were not the only people to recognize the medicinal properties of the peony; facts show that even in the western world, health benefits were believed to be derived from different parts of the peony in medieval times. Used for treating such ailments as gall stones, epileptic seizures, relieving tooth pain, jaundice, stomach aches and coughing. Psychological issues were also thought to benefit; warding off evil spirits and preventing nightmares. The use of peony preparations dwindled off as other drugs and treatments were discovered over the years, and only in recent years have scientists in the western world revisited the medical possibilities of the peony.
Indigenous to China, peony facts show that it was during the T’ang Dynasty that the flower was finally recognized for its beauty and hardiness as an ornamental plant. The plant grew quickly in popularity, found in imperial gardens and earning protection under imperial order. Considered a form of currency, often the favored varieties would be used in settling dowries. As new dynasties evolved and emperors moved from area to area, their supplies of peonies moved with them; creating a wide swath of peony development throughout the land.
Early in pioneer history, the herbaceous peony made its way to North America and has continued to flourish here. Over time, American breeders developed new strains of the peony; facts indicate they have become even more beautiful. Scientists are closely examining the properties of the peony for possible extended use in medicines. Recent renewed interest in the peony is bringing this lovely flower into power once again, for both ornamental and medical purposes.