Ingredient Name: White peony root, Chinese peony, Bai shao yao, Paeonia lactiflora

Chinese Name: 白芍 (Bái sháo)

• A commonly known traditional Chinese medicinal ingredient
• The roots of the white peony flower are collected when matured to about 3-4 years
• The white peony roots are collected, cut, boiled and dried and cut to various lengths (2-4 inches in length) before usage or distribution
• It is white/beige in color with a consistent color throughout
  
• It is known to address “liver” diseases and conditions
• The white peony flower is mainly grown in China
• This ingredient is considered slightly cold with properties such as bitter and sour
  

How do I prepare it?

• Rinse in warm water prior to use
• Add directly to soups or drinks when water boils

Where can I buy this?

• In most wet marts in Hong Kong
• Available in your Chinese herbalist or Chinese medicine store

What is the cost?

• Relatively affordable and common Chinese medicinal ingredient
• As pictured above, 5-6 sticks cost around $5-8 HKD

Any benefits?

• Ideal in treating pain associated with menstruation and cramps
• Often treated with hot flashes when mixed with calcium (so ideal for menopause)
• Nourishes the “yin” of the body

Any precautions?

• A cooling ingredient may contradict those with a cooler body, so take caution
• As it is a cooling ingredient, women who are pregnant in their first trimester should avoid or minimize consumption