Peony - medicinal properties, uses and recipes. Peonies

Seed propagation in the garden strawberries we are used to, unfortunately, leads to the appearance of less productive plants and weaker bushes. But another type of these sweet berries, alpine strawberries, can be successfully grown from seeds. Let's learn about the main advantages and disadvantages of this crop, consider the main varieties and features of agricultural technology. The information presented in this article will help you decide whether it is worth allocating a place for it in the berry garden.

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Peony (Paeonia)

Family: Peony

Brief information about the cut plant

Decorative form: beautifully flowering

Height: high (from 50 to 70 cm), medium (from 30 to 50 cm)

Significance in composition: large (can act as an accent)

Shear stability: low (1-4 days)

Peonies are beautiful both on their own and in combination with other flowers. These flowers create the effect of splendor, so they can be used in ceremonial decorations.

Peony: botanical description

The basis of the modern assortment consists of numerous varieties and types of herbaceous forms of peonies. These are perennial rhizomatous plants with numerous erect shoots ranging in height from 25 to 100 cm or slightly higher, dying off in the winter. The leaves are alternate, large, trifoliate.

The flowers are apical, usually solitary, with a diameter of 6 to 20 cm or more, with numerous stamens and three to five pistils, simple or double, from milky white to purple in color.

Peony: floral description

Peony is a plant with an active growth form with a round end. According to the need for free space, it belongs to a group of plants of great importance. This regal flower is attractive in any arrangement. When forming a composition or bouquet Special attention you need to pay attention to the state of the peony: is it a bud or an open flower, since the bud blooms very widely and brightly, taking up space in the composition.

Family: peony (Paeoniaceae).

Motherland

Peony is widespread throughout Europe, the Mediterranean, Asia and North America.

Form: herbaceous shrub.

Description

Peony is the name of a genus of perennials herbaceous shrubs. There are about 45 species in nature.

Abkhazian peony (P. abchasica) is a perennial herbaceous plant up to 80 centimeters tall, with pinnately trifoliate leaves of light green color and single white flowers. The flowering period begins in May.

(P. wittmanniana) - perennial herbaceous peony with a stem height of up to 80 centimeters. The leaf blades are double- or triple-pinnate, shiny, pointed. The petals of the Wittmann peony are usually yellow or yellowish-white in color, the flowers are up to 10 centimeters in diameter. Flowering duration is 10-12 days.

Mountain peony (P. oreogeton) - perennial 60-70 centimeters high. Mountain peony flowers are yellow and large (up to 9 cm in diameter). The filaments at the base are dark purple. The flowering time of peonies of this species begins in May.

Peony Delyaveya (P. delavayi) is a perennial deciduous subshrub up to 100 centimeters high. The flowers are solitary or arranged in groups of 2-3 at the ends of annual shoots. Color varies from orange to dark red-brown. The fruit is a naked leaflet.

(P. suffruticosa) is a deciduous subshrub with erect stems up to 2.5 meters high. Dense, double-pinnate leaves are arranged alternately. Upper side leaf blade dark green, lower one - grayish-green. Single flowers of white, pink, crimson or purple color are located at the ends of annual shoots. The number of petals ranges from 6 to 12. tree peony blooms at the end of April, flowering continues for 30-35 days.

Peony yellow (P. lutea) is a monoecious deciduous subshrub up to 90 centimeters high. Peony flowers of lemon yellow or golden color are located at the ends of the shoots of the first year. Yellow peony blooms in June. The fruit is a naked leaflet.

Caucasian peony (P. caucasica) is a perennial herbaceous plant up to 80 centimeters high, with single pink-violet flowers with round-oval petals. The leaves of the Caucasian peony are double-triple. Flowering duration is 8-9 days.

Chinese peony - a hybrid variety of milky peony. Plant height up to 100 centimeters. The flower is large, up to 20 cm in diameter. Unlike other species, it has not one flower on a stem, but three or more.

Peony Maryin-root , evasive peony, or officinalis peony (P. anomala) is a perennial herbaceous plant with many large and powerful stems up to 100 centimeters high. The species is characterized by feathery leaves and flowers up to 13 centimeters in diameter, pink-red shades of varying intensities. The flowering period begins in May-June and lasts 14 days.

Pion Mlokosevich (R. miokosewitschii) - distinguished by a dense bush 70-80 centimeters high. The leaves are dark green. The flowers are light yellow.

Peony milky-flowered (P. lactiflora) is a perennial herbaceous plant with large double-triple leaves arranged alternately. Flowers solitary, white or pale Pink colour, up to 10 centimeters in diameter. The flowering period of peonies of this species is from June to July.

Peony mutabilis (P. mutabilis) is a perennial herbaceous plant with dark green leaves and hemispherical flowers. The petals are most often of different shades. The flowering period occurs in June.

Japanese peony - subspecies of milky-flowered peony. It is distinguished by the shape of a flower with one or two rows of outer petals; in the center there are stamens, transformed into narrow reed petals. The color of the flowers is white, pink, red. Very elegant peonies. Japanese peony varieties are very popular nowadays.

(P. tenuifolia) is a perennial herbaceous plant 40-50 centimeters high, with triple-pinnate leaves of dark green color. The flowers are solitary, consisting of 8-10 cherry-red petals. The flowering period of peonies of this species begins in early May and lasts on average 10 days.

Growing conditions

Varietal peonies prefer a sunny location. Some species (for example, Maryin-root, Caucasian) feel good in partial shade. Soils are preferably cultivated, loamy, with a slightly acidic reaction. Areas with high groundwater levels are not suitable for peony. In general, peony is a fairly unpretentious flower; even a novice gardener can grow peony.

Application

Peony flowers are used in group plantings, like... The bright, sweet smell of peony creates a special atmosphere in the garden. You can select types of peonies with different flowering periods.

The rhizome of peony officinalis is used in folk medicine for diseases of the nervous system and arthritis.

Large-flowered, fragrant peonies are used for cutting.

Care

Peony requires abundant watering, but it does not tolerate stagnation of water at the roots. The soil around the peony is desirable. Peonies are fertilized in the spring, at the beginning of the growing season, with full mineral fertilizer. It is also advisable to feed peonies during budding and flowering with mineral or organic fertilizers. You can learn more about how to grow peonies and how to care for peonies from the special one.

Reproduction

Only wild peony is usually propagated by seeds. Peony seeds are sown in the ground immediately after collection. In garden floriculture, as a rule, it is used vegetative method propagation of peonies. Dividing the bush is most effective. Adult bushes are divided in August-September. To do this, dig up a bush and cut off the stems. On each of the separated parts there should be several buds and part of the rhizome. It is advisable to treat the cuttings with root formation stimulants. Peony seedlings are planted in holes and watered abundantly.

It is not advisable to replant adult peony plants without dividing the bush. If there is a need to replant the peony, it is better to divide the bush into several parts.

In general, it is advisable to carry out planting, replanting and dividing peonies exclusively in autumn or late summer. For peonies, planting in spring can lead to weakening of the plant and an increase in the adaptation period. Peonies planted in spring do not bloom for a long time.

Diseases and pests

Common diseases of peonies - rust, snow mold, gray rot peonies. Ants on peonies can spread fungal diseases and prevent flowering, so it is better to get rid of them using insecticides (‘Muracid’, for example). In addition, pests of peonies are mites, aphids, and thrips.

Popular varieties

Varieties of milky peony

    'Sarah Bernhardt'- plant height 95-110 centimeters. Peony ‘Sarah Bernhardt’ is perhaps one of the most popular varieties of this plant. The flowers are large, densely double, pale pink.

    ‘Victor Lemoine’- bright crimson peony. The height of the peony ‘Victor Lemoine’ is 80-85 centimeters.

    'Alexander Fleming'- pink peonies up to 75 centimeters high. The diameter of the flower is 12 centimeters. The flowering period of the peony ‘Alexander Fleming’ is average.

    'Shirley Temple'- white peony, densely double.

    'Gardenia'- double pink peony with creamy white flowers. The flowering period of the peony ‘Gardenia’ is average.

    'Karl Rosenfeld'- plant up to 80 centimeters high. Peony ‘Karl Rosenfeld’ flowers are crimson-red, with yellow stamens.

    Pearl placer- pearlescent pink peony with a yellow-pink center. The height of the peony ‘Pearl placer’ is up to 80 centimeters.

Hybrid peony varieties

The evasive peony, also called Maryin root (from the Latin Paeónia anomála), is a plant up to 1 meter high. Maryin root is a representative of the Peony family. Peony has a powerful rhizome with large brown roots. The stems of the plant are thick and bare, covered with leaf scales. The leaves are also large and have varied and complex shapes. Peony flowers can reach sizes up to 13 cm in diameter, pink and purple colors, most often the flower is located at the top of the stem. The fruit of the plant is a polyspermous leaflet. Reproduction of the evasive peony occurs both by seeds and vegetatively. Blooms from May to late June. Fruits in late summer.

Peony is classified as a rare and endangered plant; in most countries of the world it is listed in the Red Book. IN wildlife it grows in Southern Europe, Asia, and can also be seen in the Tien Shan mountains. In Russia, its range reaches the Kola Peninsula. Peony cultivation began in Europe at the end of the 18th century. This plant does not like overly wet soils, it is quite resistant to cold, tolerates shade, but prefers to grow under sun rays. In addition, peony can be found in coniferous forests, taiga meadows and birch groves.

The plant is held in high esteem in China, where it has been specially grown for more than a thousand years. In heaven, this plant symbolizes well-being and prosperity. Armenians believe that the peony flower has the power to cast out demons. European healers recommended applying it to the heart to avoid suffocation.

Harvesting and storing peony

The roots and grass of the plant are used for medicinal purposes; they are harvested during the flowering period. Roots and grass can be harvested at any time of the year. The dug up roots are cleaned from the ground, thoroughly washed with water and cut into pieces 10-12 cm long and 2 to 3 cm thick. Then dried in ventilated places or in the shade. After the plant becomes brittle, it must be dried in a special dryer at a temperature of 40-50 °C.

It is noted that to avoid headaches, you do not need to be in the place where peony roots are dried. The raw material of the plant consists of pieces of rhizomes and roots of various lengths. Outside they have Brown color or brown. The fracture is yellowish, and the edges are purple. The shelf life of harvested raw materials is up to 3 years. The taste is both sweet and pungent, slightly astringent. The smell is pungent.

Use in everyday life

Peony raw materials are most often used for medicinal purposes. It is used to prepare tinctures and is used as a sedative. In general, this plant is poisonous, therefore it has limited use in folk medicine.

In addition to its use in the medical field, the evasive peony is also used for other purposes. For example, in veterinary medicine. A decoction of the roots is given to animals for disorders. The plant is eaten with great pleasure by deer. The roots can also be added to meat as a seasoning. In addition, it is used in the production of sweet drinks, for example “Baikal”. In Mongolia, peony leaves are brewed as tea.

Composition and medicinal properties of peony

  1. It should be remembered that the evasive peony is poisonous. The roots of this plant contain carbohydrates, essential oils, benzoic acid, sitosterol, calcium, manganese, potassium, vitamin C. The aerial part of the plant contains bioflavonoids, tannins and glycosides. The seeds also contain fatty oils.
  2. In official medicine, peony is used as a tincture; in addition, its herb, root, and rhizome are used, both in dry form and in briquettes. Scientists have proven that drugs containing this healing plant have a calming effect and have a good effect on the functioning of the heart, blood vessels, and the functioning of the nervous system. Peony is used for the treatment and prevention of neuroses, sleep disorders, and hypochondriacal conditions. Also, drugs based on it are used as agents that stimulate the secretion of gastric juice.
  3. In folk medicine, it is recommended to take tinctures based on peony roots for headaches, diseases of the stomach, liver, uterine erosion, and hemorrhoids. Such infusions are often used to wash hair for baldness. Also, medicinal remedies from this plant are drunk for epilepsy.
  4. In China, peony roots are used to treat cancer, and in Mongolia, peony serves as an antidote. Some herbalists point to its effectiveness as a drug for hypertension.
  5. Peony preparations soothe, have anticonvulsant and anti-inflammatory effects. Also tones. The plant is used as a remedy that moderately stimulates the secretion of hydrochloric acid from the gastric mucosa.
  6. The use of peony in folk medicine

    Calming tincture

    Tincture of 10 percent from herbs and peony roots in 40% alcohol. The infusion is a clear, light-colored liquid, very bitter and astringent in taste. This calming tincture is prescribed for neurasthenia and insomnia. Take 30-40 drops 3 times a day. The course of treatment is 1 month. Sold in pharmacies in 200 ml bottles. Should be stored in a cool place.

    Infusion for headaches

    An infusion of peony roots suggests a recipe of 1 tsp. fine peony raw materials poured 400 ml of boiling water. Take 1 tbsp. 3 times a day 10 minutes before meals.

    Prevention of heart disease

    1 tsp crushed peony roots, pour 0.4 liters of boiling water, then boil for 5 minutes and strain. Take 0.5 cups 3-4 times a day 15 minutes before meals.

    Contraindications for use

    Since this plant is poisonous, its use requires a very precise dosage. Peony preparations are not used to treat children under 10 years of age and pregnant women. They are also prescribed with special care for gastritis and hypotension.

Thank you

The site provides reference information for informational purposes only. Diagnosis and treatment of diseases must be carried out under the supervision of a specialist. All drugs have contraindications. Consultation with a specialist is required!

We have long been accustomed to the fact that almost every garden is replete with flowers, which not only bring rainbow colors to the world, but also pamper us with their fragrance. What kind of flowers are these? And this peonies, which are not only beautiful, but also useful, since they have a wide spectrum of action. It is thanks to its medicinal properties that this plant has found application in medicine, both traditional and folk. The types, properties and uses of peony will be discussed further.

Description of the peony plant

What does it look like?

Peony belongs to the class of perennial plants and can be herbaceous, semi-shrub or shrub. This plant may have several stems, the height of which rarely exceeds 1 m.

Peony has a large rhizome with powerful, thickened, cone-shaped roots.

The leaves of the peony are arranged in a regular order (they can be pinnately divided or trifoliate). The color of peony leaves varies from dark green to dark purple (rare specimens with a bluish color are found). In autumn, the leaves turn yellow, brown and even reddish.

Single peony flowers reach 15–25 cm in diameter.

The peony fruit is a complex, star-shaped, multi-leafed plant. The rather large seeds of the plant are black and have a round or oval shape.

Peony is famous and loved by many gardeners for its beautiful lush flowers, which are blue, white, yellow, red (it all depends on the type of peony). Most peony flowers are single and apical (in other words, most plant stems end in one beautiful flower). Although there are varieties of peony on the stems of which not only central but also side buds are formed (there can be from 5 to 7 such buds), the side flowers bloom only after the central flower has faded. It is the side buds, which are smaller in size compared to the central ones, that ensure long-term flowering of the peony bush.

Interesting fact! In one season, the peony changes its color three times: for example, in the spring the leaves of the plant acquire a purple-red tint, while in the summer they become dark green, and in the fall the peony “dresses” in purple, crimson or yellow-green foliage.

It should also be said that peony is a drought- and frost-resistant plant that quickly recovers even after quite severe damage, and all thanks to the fact that this plant has a large number of reserve buds.

Peony family

Peony is the only genus of the Peony family (Paeoniaceae).

The meaning of the name peony

According to one version, the name of the flower is derived from the Greek word “paionios”, which translates as “medicinal, healing”.

But there is another version, which is associated with ancient Greek myth, which tells the story of the physician Paeon, who healed Hades (the god of the underworld of the dead) after his battle with Hercules. According to the myth, Asclepius (the god of healing, who was Paeon's teacher) was jealous of his student's amazing gift, so he decided to poison him. But Peon learned of his mentor's intentions and asked the Greek gods to intercede on his behalf. The gods turned Peon into a flower as a sign of gratitude.

They also say that the flower owes its name to the small town of Paeonia, located in Thrace (Balkan Peninsula), because it is here that peonies grow literally everywhere.

Where do peonies grow?

Today peonies can be found in almost every garden, but in the wild this plant grows mainly in the forest belt of the European part of Russia, on the Kola Peninsula, in the western regions of Yakutia, in the eastern part of Transbaikalia. Peony is especially common in Western and Eastern Siberia.

This plant prefers well-lit (or slightly shaded) and well-warmed by the sun forest glades, edges, meadows, and clearings.

Bloom

Peonies bloom at the end of spring, although much depends on weather conditions: for example, the timing of flowering of the plant shifts in some years.

The duration of flowering depends, first of all, on the peony variety and is about 8–16 days, while for varieties with lateral buds, this period is extended to 18–25 days.

Peony storage

The herb and peony roots are used for medicinal purposes. In this case, the above-ground part is harvested during flowering, that is, in the period from May to June. Roots are most often harvested during this same period.

The rhizome and roots are washed in running water and then dried in the attic or under a canopy.

The above-ground part is dried in the same way. You can dry raw materials in dryers, but the temperature in them should not be higher than 45 - 60 degrees.

It is important not only to dry the plant correctly, but also to store it. To do this, place the dried raw materials in paper or fabric bags, and the packaging must be hermetically sealed.

The shelf life of raw materials is no more than three years.

Peony varieties

There are about 5,000 varieties of peonies, some of which have medicinal properties and are used in folk medicine to treat various diseases. We'll talk about them further.

Tree peony

Tree peonies are deciduous shrubs with woody shoots. The height of this type of peony reaches 1 - 1.5 m, while in the southern regions you can find specimens whose height is about 2.5 m.

Tree peonies are rightfully considered long-lived, since they can grow in one place for about 100 - 150 years. They prefer bright and sheltered places from the wind.

Tree peony flowers, of which up to 30–70 can be formed on one bush, are very large (they can reach 25–30 cm in diameter). Tree peony flowers have the shape of a bowl or ball. They bloom at the end of May, and their flowering lasts about two weeks.

Tree peonies can be white, pink, yellow, red and purple.

This type of peony has healing properties. Thus, the roots of the plant contain substances that help thin the blood. In addition, preparations based on tree peony have anti-inflammatory, bactericidal, tonic, anticidal and decongestant effects, normalize high blood pressure and prevent the formation of blood clots.

Taking into account all of the above, it is not surprising that this plant is actively used in Tibetan, Chinese, Japanese and Korean medicine in the treatment of the following diseases:

  • arthritis;
  • arthrosis;
  • headache;
  • diabetes;
  • cardiovascular diseases;
  • tumors;
  • kidney diseases;
  • poisoning;
  • ulcers;
  • stress;
  • persistent night fever;
  • carbuncles;
  • cough;
  • hemoptysis.
To prepare the infusion, peony flowers (you can also use the roots of the plant) are poured with boiling water (1 tablespoon of raw material is poured with a glass of boiling water) and infused for about 10 - 15 minutes. The resulting product is taken 2-3 times a day, one-third of a glass.

Peony yellow

This is one of the varieties of tree peony, the range of which covers mainly China.

Yellow peony is a shrub or subshrub up to one meter high. Single flowers, the diameter of which varies between 5 - 10 cm, are distinguished by a golden or copper-yellow color; their petals can have either a round or elliptical shape.

Yellow peony blooms in June.

This variety of peony (mainly the roots of the plant) is used in Tibetan medicine in the treatment of nosebleeds, migraines, radiculitis, joint pain, depression, gynecological diseases, diabetes, thrombophlebitis.

To prepare the decoction 1 tsp. dry crushed peony roots are poured into 500 ml of water, and then the resulting product is boiled for 20 minutes. The cooled and filtered decoction is drunk 100 ml three times a day.

Peony red

The red peony has a branched stem, a short rhizome and large serrated leaves. The height of the plant rarely exceeds one meter. Large single flowers of the plant can be either pink or dark red.

Interesting fact! The red peony belongs to the Ranunculaceae family, not the Peony family, but due to its resemblance to the peony, this plant is often classified as a member of the second family.

Important! The plant is poisonous!

In medical practice, plant petals collected during flowering are used (the raw materials are collected in dry weather, dried in the sun or in dryers at a temperature not exceeding 40 degrees). Red peony roots are collected from September to November, then they are washed and dried in the sun or in a dryer.

Red peony, which has anticonvulsant properties, significantly enhances the tone of the uterus, as well as the intestines and urinary tract. In addition, preparations from this plant promote blood clotting.

Taking red peony preparations is indicated for the following diseases:

  • pain in the abdomen and intestines;
  • hysteria;
  • rheumatism;
  • whooping cough;
  • asthma;
  • gout;
  • epilepsy;
  • sand and kidney stones.
Red peony infusion
1 tbsp. The petals of the plant are poured with 300 ml of cold and always boiled water, after which the mixture is infused for 8 hours, filtered and taken 100 ml three times a day.

Peony angustifolia (thin-leaved)

Peony angustifolia (also called thin-leaved) has an elongated, pineal-shaped rhizome. The stems of the plant are bare and reach a height of no more than 50 cm.

This type of peony can "show off" large flowers regular shape, which are located at the very top of the stem. The flowers have about 8 - 10 large petals of bright red color.

Important! The narrow-leaved peony is an endangered plant that can rarely be found in the forest-steppe part of the Crimea, Russia and Ukraine (this type of peony is included in the Red Books of two countries).

Since the natural resources of this plant are excluded, the thin-leaved peony has been introduced into cultivation, that is, it is grown on specially designated plantations.

For medicinal purposes, the plant's grass is used, cut off during the flowering of the plant, as well as the cone-shaped rhizomes. All parts of the angustifolia peony contain flavonoids as well as tannins, while fresh leaves contain large amounts of vitamin C.

Preparations of peony angustifolia are used in medicine in the treatment of:

  • anemia;
  • epilepsy;
  • poisoning (especially alcohol intoxication);
  • kidney stone disease;
  • hemorrhoids;
  • some heart diseases.
Important! The plant is toxic, as a result of which dosages must be strictly observed.

Rhizome decoction
1 tsp raw materials are poured with 400 ml of boiling water and placed on water bath for 5 minutes. The broth removed from the bath is filtered, squeezed out and brought with warm boiled water to its original volume. Drink a third of a glass of the decoction three times a day, before eating.

Peony (common)

The officinalis peony (also called the common peony) reaches a height of 50–85 cm and pleases gardeners with large flowers of red, white or pink. This perennial plant has coarse stems and separate compound leaves.

Important! Only peonies with purple flowers are used for medicinal purposes.

The crimson-red petals of Peony officinalis are dried immediately after collection (it is important to collect the petals before they fall off). Dried raw materials are stored in dry and always dark containers.

The roots of the plant are also subject to harvesting, which are cleared of soil and washed cold water, after which they are cut into strips about 10–15 cm long (the thickness of the strips should be no more than 2–3 cm). The raw materials are dried under a canopy until they become brittle, after which they are dried in a dryer at a temperature of about 50 - 60 degrees. Properly dried roots have a dark brown or yellowish-brown tint, while the fracture of the roots acquires a whitish-yellowish color, which turns into purple along the edges. The taste of dry roots and rhizomes is sweetish-burning and slightly astringent, and the smell is pungent.

In addition, preparations of peony are indicated for intestinal and stomach spasms, hysteria, epilepsy, dropsy, and edema.

Chinese medicine uses Paeonia officinalis preparations to treat the following conditions:

  • retinal hemorrhage;
  • infectious hepatitis;
  • stomach diseases;
  • diabetes;
  • gynecological diseases;
  • nephritis;
  • leucorrhoea;
  • menstrual irregularities;
  • spastic colitis;
  • peptic ulcers;
  • gastritis;


In Tibetan medicine, a decoction of peony rhizomes is used in the treatment of:

  • colds;
  • pneumonia;
  • liver diseases;
  • pulmonary diseases;
  • stomach cancer;
  • dysmenorrhea;
  • polyarthritis;
  • gout;
  • hypertension;
Powder from the roots of the plant is part of an effective wound-healing ointment, which is indicated for bone fractures.

Official medicine widely uses tincture from the roots of peony officinalis as a sedative for insomnia, neurasthenia and various vegetative-vascular disorders.

Peony infusion for whooping cough and asthma
1 tsp dry peony flowers should be poured into 250 ml of cold boiled water and left in a closed container for two hours, after which the infusion is filtered and consumed one tablespoon three times a day.

Decoction for spasms, hysteria, swelling and urolithiasis
0.5 tsp Pour a glass of water over the crushed rhizome of the plant and put it on fire. The product is boiled under the lid for 10 minutes, then infused for one hour, filtered and drunk a tablespoon three times a day.

Important! The plant is poisonous, so the prescribed dosage should be strictly followed.

Mountain peony (spring)

Mountain peony has an almost horizontally spread rhizome, an erect and single stem, the height of which does not exceed 30 - 50 cm. Moreover, the stem of the plant, which acquires a red-violet hue in spring, is slightly ribbed.

The large mountain peony flower has a light cream corolla (white and pink corollas are less common). The smell of the flower is reminiscent of the poppy.

In the wild, this rare species of peony, listed in the Red Book, is found in the south of Primorye, in East Asia, as well as on some islands of Japan.

All parts of the plant are used in folk medicine in the treatment of diseases of the central nervous system, headaches and some disorders of the gastrointestinal tract.

Peony evasive (Maryin root)

This type of peony, growing mainly in Siberia and the European part of Russia, is popularly called marina root.

This perennial herbaceous plant can reach a height of 1 m or more. Peony evasive has a powerful rhizome and thick roots of a red-brown hue.

The erect stems of the plant have three to five large leaves, the length and width of which are about 30 cm.

Large red flowers with a diameter of 10–18 cm have 5 petals.

It is the evasive peony that is most often used not only in folk medicine, but also in official medicine, so it is this species that will be discussed further.

Composition and properties of peony evasive

Essential oil
  • increased secretion of glands;
  • promoting increased gastrointestinal motility;
  • reduction of fermentation in the intestines;
  • regulation and normalization of central nervous system functions;
  • strengthening the process of bile secretion;
  • strengthening the cardiovascular system.
Starch
  • saturating the body with energy;
  • increased insulin synthesis;
  • removal of bad cholesterol.
Glycosides
  • increased urine output;
  • vasodilation;
  • destruction of germs and bacteria;
  • increased sputum discharge;
  • calming the nervous system.
Tannins
  • improved digestion;
  • normalization of gastrointestinal tract functions;
  • elimination of foci of inflammation;
  • neutralization of bacteria;
  • acceleration of wound healing.
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The main task of sugars is to provide the body with energy.

Flavonoids

  • removal of toxins;
  • neutralization of bacteria and germs;
  • eliminating allergies or reducing their manifestations;
  • promoting the excretion of bile;
  • relieving inflammation;
  • acceleration of wound healing;
  • relieving spasms;
  • increased urine output.
Alkaloids
  • relieve pain;
  • eliminate spasms;
  • help stop bleeding;
  • have a calming effect on the nervous system.
Organic acids
  • remove toxins;
  • restore acidity;
  • normalize digestion;
  • calm the nervous system;
  • relieve inflammation;
  • eliminate joint pain.
Glutamine
  • regulates metabolic processes and the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract;
  • improves the activity of skeletal muscles;
  • promotes the synthesis of amino acids and glucose;
  • improves the process of hematopoiesis.
Arginine
  • strengthens the immune system;
  • promotes wound healing;
  • enhances the synthesis of growth hormone;
  • increases sexual activity in men;
  • transports oxygen to body tissues;
  • removes toxins, thereby normalizing liver function;
  • removes harmful cholesterol;
  • prevents the development of thrombosis and atherosclerosis;
  • stimulates insulin production;
  • lowers blood pressure.
Resins
  • accelerate the wound healing process;
  • neutralize the effect of microbes and bacteria;
  • strengthen the immune system.
Ascorbic acid
  • normalizes central nervous system functions;
  • significantly improves iron absorption;
  • promotes hematopoiesis;
  • removes toxins.
In addition, peony evasive contains micro- and macroelements (strontium, chromium, potassium, calcium, sulfur, aluminum, iron, magnesium, copper, etc.), which have an extremely beneficial effect on health, namely:
  • normalize the functioning of the female reproductive system;
  • regulate the functioning of the central nervous system;
  • stimulate mental activity;
  • promote wound healing;
  • reduce allergic reactions.

Medicinal properties of peony

  • Antispasmodic.
  • Painkiller.
  • Anti-inflammatory.
  • Sweatshop.
  • Diuretic.
  • Hemostatic.
  • Diuretic.
  • Disinfectant.
  • Tonic.
  • Strengthening.
  • Decongestant.
  • Sedative.
  • Choleretic.
  • Expectorant.
  • Astringent.
  • Anticonvulsant.
  • Hemostatic.
  • Antitumor.

The benefits and harms of peony

Peony evasive is an adaptogen that naturally regulates the functioning of the immune system, thereby not only protecting the body from various viruses and infections, but also significantly accelerating the healing process.

Taking peony preparations makes it much easier to tolerate radioactive radiation, as well as chemotherapy. In addition, preparations of peony have a detrimental effect on protozoa, which is why they are used as a bactericidal agent.

In addition, this plant normalizes metabolism and increases the acidity of gastric juice, which has a beneficial effect on the digestive process, not to mention the fact that peony-based preparations speed up the healing process of ulcers and wounds, relieve spasms of smooth muscles as internal organs, and blood vessels.

Peony - a remedy for nerves

Peony preparations are rightfully considered an excellent remedy for chronic fatigue, overwork, hysteria, stress and lack of sleep, as they have sedative and tonic effects. Thus, peony infusion will help improve your mood, get rid of insomnia and overcome depression.

The therapeutic effect is primarily due to the presence of glycosides salicin and methyl salicylate. In addition, the sedative effect is associated with stimulation of the body's production of endorphins, which cause a feeling of happiness.

To prepare the infusion, 1 tsp. crushed peony roots, pour 600 ml of boiling water and infuse for half an hour. The drug is taken 10 minutes before eating two to three times a day.

Peony flower (petals)

Peony flowers contain aromatic substances, therefore they are used in pharmacology to improve the taste of medicinal solutions. In addition, this part of the plant contains ascorbic acid, so infusions and decoctions of peony flowers are used in the treatment of colds.

As an external remedy, tincture of peony flowers is used for radiculitis and joint pain. To prepare the product, a half-liter jar is filled with plant flowers and filled with vodka. The tincture is filtered after two weeks and used for rubbing into sore joints.

Seeds

Peony seeds contain a large amount of fatty oils, so preparations based on them have long been used in the treatment of sore throat and pulmonary diseases.

Interesting fact! The healers of Ireland used peony seeds to treat postpartum ailments, for which 9 peony seeds were crushed and mixed with borax, almonds, and aniseed white water.

Grass (leaves)

The aerial part of the peony contains a large amount of vitamin C, flavonoids and starch, as a result of which preparations based on this part of the plant are indicated in the treatment of pulmonary diseases, inflammation, colds, nervous disorders, digestive disorders, spasms, allergies, epilepsy.

Tubers

The spindle-shaped tubers of peonies are used to prepare remedies intended to treat gout, seizures and epilepsy. To this day, the Greeks and residents of Altai use peony tubers as a seasoning for meat dishes.

Peony root and rhizome

Exactly underground part plants are most widely used in both folk and scientific medicine, so we will pay special attention to it.

Application

Official medicine uses a tincture from the underground part of the evasive peony in the treatment of neurasthenic conditions, insomnia, vegetative-vascular disorders of various origins, headaches, and chronic fatigue.

The roots of this plant have long been included in anti-cancer preparations that help speed up the cure of cancer.

Peony roots are used in the treatment of epilepsy, viral diseases, poisoning, liver and kidney diseases.

So, for stomach cancer, it is recommended to prepare the following remedy: the dried roots of the plant in a ratio of 1:10 are poured with boiling water and infused for at least two hours. An infusion of 100 ml is taken three times a day.

If we talk about folk medicine, Avicenna also used peony to treat pain and burning in the stomach. The roots of this plant were widely used in Rus': for example, gout, rheumatism, gastrointestinal diseases, bleeding, stroke, epilepsy. Moreover, the treatment included the use of not only infusions, but also the root fresh(a pea-sized piece of root was taken three times a day after meals, washed down with water).

Medicinal properties of peony roots

  • Calming.
  • Painkiller.
  • Antispasmodic.
  • Anticonvulsant.
The active substances of the roots and rhizomes of peony have a powerful anti-inflammatory effect, which in its effectiveness is similar to amidopyrine - a drug that has antipyretic, analgesic, and anti-inflammatory effects. For this reason, preparations based on peony roots are used for headaches, neuralgia, arthritis, myositis, and rheumatism.

It must be said that the roots of the evasive peony have a general strengthening effect, since they contain micro- and macroelements that help the body fight many diseases of various etiologies.

Contraindications to the use of peony roots

There are no special contraindications to the use of root-based preparations (with the exception of pregnancy, childhood and individual intolerance).

Use of peony in medicine

Peony evasive is used in the treatment of the following diseases:
  • diarrhea;
  • peptic ulcers;
  • arthritis;
  • dysmenorrhea;
  • amenorrhea;
  • myositis;
  • spasms and twitching of various muscle groups;
  • gastrointestinal cramps;
  • CNS diseases;
  • stress and neurasthenia, accompanied by excessive excitability;
  • epilepsy;
  • insomnia;
  • hypochondria;
  • vegetative-vascular dystonia;
  • lethargy;
  • hypertension;
  • liver diseases;
  • fever;
  • colds;
  • Peony tea To prevent colds and to improve immunity, the above-ground part of the plant can be brewed and drunk like regular tea.

    Tincture

    The tincture is indicated for the treatment of gastritis, uterine bleeding, cough, pain of various origins, rheumatism and gout.

    Pour 10 g of evasive peony (you can use a collection from all parts of the plant) into 100 ml of vodka, after which the product is thoroughly mixed and left to infuse for two weeks in a dark and cool place. It is important not to forget to shake the tincture regularly. After the specified infusion period, the strained product is poured into a dark glass container. Drink tincture 20 drops three times a day.

    Peony ointment

    It is used externally for joint pain, neurological inflammation, and treatment of inflammation of the trigeminal and sciatic nerves.

    The ointment is prepared from dried peony root, which must be grated, then add pork fat to the resulting mass in a 1:1 ratio. Next, the mixture is sent to a water bath and heated slowly for 30 minutes. Removed from heat and cooled, the mass is used in the form of compresses and rubbing.

    Peony extract in drops (instructions)

    Pharmacy peony extract is used in the treatment of all those conditions that the tincture prepared at home, including:
    • nervous disorders;
    • headache;
    • insomnia;
    • diseases of the reproductive system;
    • some types of cancer;
    • convulsions;
    • epilepsy.
    The pharmacy tincture is taken orally, 25–40 drops three times a day before eating, and the tincture should be diluted in 50–70 ml of water.

    Treatment is carried out over a course of 25–30 days.

    Important! There are no absolute contraindications to the use of peony tincture. Side effects occur extremely rarely and pass quickly.

    Peony extract tablets

    Peony extract is available not only in liquid, but also in tablet form.

    The tablets have a sedative, anticonvulsant, membrane-stabilizing, antioxidant and antihypoxic effect on the human body, as a result of which they are indicated in the treatment of sleep disorders, increased nervous excitability and neurocirculatory dystonia.

    The tablets are taken orally, 1 capsule twice a day, half an hour before meals. The tablets are taken for 21 to 30 days. If necessary, the course is repeated after a ten-day break.
    hawthorn
    If the syrup is taken for preventive purposes to enhance concentration, improve memory and calm the nervous system, then daily norm syrup should not exceed two tablespoons.

    Important! Children over 14 years old can take 1 tsp of this syrup. twice a day - during the day and in the evening.

    Contraindications to the use of syrup are:

    • individual intolerance to any component of the drug;
    • periods of pregnancy and lactation;
    • childhood.

    Evading peony: properties, application - video

    Contraindications to the use of peony preparations

    Peony is not only beautiful, but also poisonous plant Therefore, it is extremely important to follow the dosage prescribed by your doctor.

    Contraindications to the use of evasive peony preparations:

    • individual intolerance;
    • age (children under 12 years old);
    • liver or kidney failure;
    • pregnancy period;
    • lactation.
    In addition, people with high stomach acidity and low blood pressure should be careful when taking decoctions, tinctures and infusions of peony.

    Side effects when taking peony preparations are observed very rarely and are mainly caused by severe overdose.

    Side effects:

    • a sharp decrease in blood pressure;
    • decreased concentration;
    • fatigue;
    • weakness;
    • allergic reactions (redness,