Peony

Peony, Paeonia lactiflora, is a native of Asia and Europe. In Canterbury, in spring, the blooms start emerging and they are glorious. I have only grown them in recent times after admiring them in people's gardens.

Peonies are grown by tuber and they die down in winter (herbaceous perennial). They need to have time over winter with chilling to enable them to bloom and thrive. They are often sweetly scented.

This is also a herb that is used both in Western herbal medicine and TCM (Traditional Chinese medicine). Legend says it is the flower that has been cultivated for the longest time (China).

Typically it is used for hormone balance and menstrual issues but it is also indicated as a cognition enhancer and for cramps, migraines and angina. It is considered a herb to relieve anxiety and reduce stress. I find that just by looking at the blooms in my garden.

Ways you can use peony is taking the root and making a tea (steep the sliced root 10 minutes with herbs like lemon balm and chamomile) or a decoction (simmer the sliced root for 20 minutes then strain).

This is a herb to avoid when pregnant, if you have bleeding disorders or if you are on certain medications.

Peony in my garden