Marshmallow Root (Paeonia anomala L.), a member of the Ranunculaceae family, is a perennial herbaceous plant with a thick, branched, brownish-brown root. Characterized by its upright, unbranched stems and leathery scales at the base, it features alternate, twice or thrice divided leaves with narrow, lanceolate lobes. Its large, showy flowers, ranging from red to pale pink, boast five or more sepals and petals, numerous stamens, and two to five pistils with a superior ovary. The fruit is a collection of several diverging follicles containing large, black, elliptical seeds. This impressive plant reaches heights of 60-100 cm. Its natural habitat spans the forest zone of northeastern European Russia, Siberian forests, and the mountainous regions of eastern Kazakhstan.
The roots of Paeonia anomala contain a significant amount of bioactive compounds, including:
Paeonia anomala is considered a highly toxic plant. Internal use requires extreme caution and should only be undertaken under the guidance of a qualified healthcare professional.
Historically, Paeonia anomala root has been used for various purposes, including:
Steep 1 teaspoon of dried roots in 3 cups of boiling water for 30 minutes. Strain and consume 1 tablespoon 3 times daily, 10-15 minutes before meals.
A 10% tincture of the aerial and underground parts (1:1 ratio) in 40% alcohol can be used. Take 30-40 drops three times daily for insomnia and neuroses. A course of treatment should last 25-30 days.
This information is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before using Paeonia anomala or any herbal remedy, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have pre-existing health conditions. Self-treating can be dangerous, and professional guidance is crucial when dealing with potent medicinal plants.





