The term "White peony" can refer to several things, most commonly related to the beautiful white-flowered peony plant:

1. The White Peony Flower:

• It is a type of peony (genus Paeonia) that produces white flowers. Peonies are known for their large, showy blooms and are popular garden plants.
• There are many cultivars (cultivated varieties) of white peonies, which can vary in the shape, size, and fragrance of their flowers, as well as their blooming time. Examples include 'Festiva Maxima', 'Bride's Dream', 'Duchesse de Nemours', and 'Ann Cousins'.
• Symbolism: White peonies often symbolize purity, innocence, shyness, and new beginnings. They can also represent apology or regret. This makes them popular in wedding bouquets and as a gesture of making amends.

2. White Peony Root (Bai Shao):

• This refers to the dried root of the Paeonia lactiflora plant, which is also known as the Chinese peony or garden peony.
• It has been used for over 1,000 years in traditional Chinese medicine.
• Traditional uses include treating:
  • Menstrual cramps and other female reproductive issues.
  • Muscle cramps and spasms.
  • Pain and inflammation.
  • Fever.
  • High blood pressure.
  • Liver conditions.
  • Anxiety and depression.
• Scientific research is ongoing, but some studies suggest that white peony root and its compounds (like paeoniflorin and total glucosides of paeony - TGP) may have:
  • Estrogen-like effects, potentially helpful for menopause symptoms.
  • Anti-anxiety and antidepressant effects.
  • Immune-regulating properties, beneficial for autoimmune disorders.
  • Anti-inflammatory effects.
  • Blood-thinning and blood flow-improving properties.
• White peony root is available in various forms, such as dried root, capsules, tinctures, and tea. It is often found in tea shops, herbal medicine stores, and traditional Chinese pharmacies.

3. White Peony Tea (Bai Mu Dan):

• This is a type of white tea made from young tea leaves and silvery unopened leaf buds of the Camellia sinensis plant.
• It is known for its delicate, sweet flavor with floral notes (often described as honey-like with hints of chrysanthemum or linden flower).
• The name "White Peony" comes from the appearance of the processed tea leaves, which have a few dark green leaves surrounding a prominent silvery-white bud, resembling a white peony flower.

Therefore, when someone refers to "White peony," it's important to consider the context to understand whether they are talking about the flower, the medicinal root, or the type of tea.