Regulates hormonal balance: Experts of Traditional Chinese Medicine recommend using peony extract to alleviate symptoms of the premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and menopause. Research studies indicate that this idea has some merit. Paeonia lactiflora contains phytoestrogens that affect the body similarly to female hormones. Besides that, active compounds of this herb help to regulate functioning of the endocrine system. They are able to reduce the amount of testosterone produced within the body and stimulate an enzyme that transforms this hormone into estrogens. Peony is able to affect the nervous system as well. It increases expression of estrogen receptors in neurons that produce serotonin. This is actually really important since there is a specific type of feedback between serotonin and estrogens. It has been shown that when the amount of estrogen receptors in the nervous system is insufficient, serotonin production might be disrupted and this often is a root cause of a lowered mood in the second phase of the menstrual cycle or in the menopause period. Biologically active substances of Chinese peony help to normalize activity of female hormones and positively affect serotonin production, so they can be useful for mood improvement. Moreover, they restore mitochondrial activity, which is often impaired during menopause. Thanks to this mechanism, peony has been found to counteract muscle atrophy. All these properties make Paeonia lactiflora a great support for women at different stages of life.

Supports a good mood: Traditional use of Chinese peony includes an improvement of general well-being. The results of contemporary scientific studies help to establish that active compounds found in this herb affect the central nervous system and are able to mitigate mood changes that may occur during menopause or PMS. They increase expression of tryptophan hydroxylase – an enzyme that acts as a catalyst in serotonin production. They also inhibit serotonin reuptake. Thanks to that, more molecules of this neurotransmitter can remain in the synapses and they can affect the brain for a longer time. Serotonin is commonly known as a “happiness hormone” for a very specific reason. It plays an important role in regulating the general mood. However, it is not the only mechanism of peony’s beneficial influence on mental comfort. During studies, it has been shown that biologically active substances of peony inhibit the activity of the hypothalamic – pituitary – adrenal (HPA) axis. This functional system is strongly stimulated by stress factors. In effect, greater amounts of cortisol, the so-called stress hormone, get secreted in the body. Active compounds contained in Paeonia lactiflora reduce the release of cortisol, so they might be quite effective in lowering anxiety and improving stress resilience. This herb can thus be treated as a support for positive attitude, particularly for women, regardless of the phase of the menstrual cycle.

Improves sleep quality: Elevated stress level and lowered mood are often important factors that cause insomnia. Chinese peony helps to deal with this ailment as well. The results of research suggest that biologically active substances of this herb influence adenosine receptors and decrease brain excitation. Adenosine is a neurotransmitter that induces sleepiness. In the morning, its level is low but it gradually increases throughout the day. It reaches the top in the evening, making it easier to fall asleep and then drops during sleep. This mechanism is an essential part of circadian rhythm. There are also claims that active compounds of peony promote NREM sleep phase when the most efficient regeneration of the body occurs. Therefore, this herb is able to facilitate relaxation before a night’s rest, helps to fall asleep and makes recovery more effective.

Supports functioning of the brain: Mood improvement and mitigation of stress symptoms are not the only effects of Chinese peony on the central nervous system. Results of multiple studies show that active compounds of this herb have a positive influence on cognitive functions. It has been proven that they prevent premature apoptosis of neurons, especially in situations of temporary oxygen and nutrient deficiency. They also improve blood flow in the arteries supplying the brain. These substances stimulate neurogenesis and neuroplasticity – the processes that lead to formation of new nerve cells and creating connections between them. This effect is the most pronounced in the hippocampus which is a brain region related to long-term memory. They have also been found to intensify the activity of mitochondria, so they can provide neurons with more energy necessary for efficient work. Besides that, they increase the density of receptors for acetylcholine – a brain chemical that determines the speed of signal transmission and efficiency of memory and attention. All these effects make Chinese peony a decent support for the functioning of the central nervous system and its condition.