Chinese Peony / White Peony (Paeonia lactiflora) vs Hawthorn (Crataegus oxyacantha)

Chinese Peony / White Peony (Paeonia lactiflora)

Hawthorn (Crataegus oxyacantha)

About

White peony is an upright perennial growing to 6.5 feet with large white flowers and divided, dark green leaves. Its history of medicinal use in China stretches back at least 1,500 years, most notably as one of the herbs in 'Four Things Soup,' a renowned female tonic. Traditionally, it is believed that women who take the herb regularly become as radiant as the flower itself. The plant is cultivated throughout northeastern China and Inner Mongolia, propagated from seed in spring or from root cuttings in winter. The root of 4- or 5-year-old plants is harvested in spring or autumn and valued as a hormonal tonic.

Hawthorn (Crataegus spp.) is a deciduous, thorny tree reaching up to about 26 ft (8 m), adorned with small lobed leaves, clusters of white blossoms, and bright red berries. Renowned as a cardiac tonic, hawthorn is often called “food for the heart,” enhancing the heart’s strength, improving blood flow to heart muscle, and helping normalize blood pressure. It also reduces stress and assists digestion when used regularly.

Safety & precautions

Do not take during pregnancy. Generally well-tolerated, with no significant drug interactions documented. Use under professional guidance for hormonal conditions.

Interactions: Can interact with prescription medications for heart and blood pressure; seek professional advice if already on such drugs. General Safety: Considered safe for long-term use in moderate amounts.

Safety text above is printed in full and is never abbreviated. For each plant’s complete precautions, drug and food interactions and preparation notes, open its own page - both are free.