radix paeoniae rubra

Red peony, botanically known as *Radix Paeoniae Rubra* or Chishao, is a traditional Chinese medicinal herb derived from the dried roots of *Paeonia lactiflora* Pall. or *Paeonia veitchii* Lynch. It is characterized by its ability to clear heat, cool the blood, and dispel blood stasis according to traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) principles. In clinical research, such as the trial conducted by the Eye Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University (ChiCTR2400082011), it is utilized as part of a multi-herb regimen to mitigate transient intraocular pressure (IOP) spikes following penetrating canaloplasty in patients with primary or juvenile open-angle glaucoma. The herb contains bioactive monoterpene glycosides, most notably paeoniflorin, which exert anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-thrombotic effects. These properties are thought to improve ocular microcirculation and reduce the inflammatory response associated with surgical trauma.

Other names

red peonyred peony rootChishaoPaeoniae Radix Rubra