Chinese Peony / White Peony (Paeonia lactiflora) vs Rhodiola (Rhodiola rosea)

Chinese Peony / White Peony (Paeonia lactiflora)

Rhodiola (Rhodiola rosea)

About

White peony is an upright perennial growing to 6.5 feet with large white flowers and divided, dark green leaves. Its history of use in China stretches back at least 1,500 years, and it is one of the herbs in 'Four Things Soup.' 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.

Rhodiola (Rhodiola rosea) is a fleshy perennial (up to about 16 in / 40 cm tall) thriving in mountainous and Arctic regions. Rhodiola has a long history of use in Russia, Scandinavia and other parts of Europe, where it was traditionally used for work performance, endurance, fatigue, depression and altitude sickness. NCCIH says there isn't enough reliable evidence to know whether rhodiola is useful for any health purpose.

Safety & precautions

Do not take during pregnancy. Use under professional guidance for hormonal conditions.

Irritability & Sleep Disturbance: May occur if taken in large amounts or late in the day. Manic/Bipolar Disorders: Not advisable. General Safety: NCCIH says rhodiola is possibly safe for up to 12 weeks; monitor for overstimulation.

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.