Peony Root Extract
Botanical extract from peony root containing paeoniflorin and polyphenols. Used in brightening and anti-inflammatory formulas, especially in K-beauty and APAC-market products.
What it does
Paeonia root extracts — derived from white peony (Paeonia lactiflora / albiflora) and tree peony (Paeonia suffruticosa) — contain paeoniflorin, a monoterpene glucoside with documented anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, along with gallic acid, kaempferol, and other phenolic compounds. In vitro research shows inhibition of pro-inflammatory signaling pathways and mild tyrosinase inhibition, which supports the brightening and anti-redness claims common in product marketing. The two species have overlapping but not identical phytochemical profiles; both are used interchangeably in cosmetic formulas as gentle botanical brighteners and antioxidants. Most human clinical evidence comes from oral use in traditional East Asian herbalism; topical skin-specific RCT data is limited. Well-tolerated by most skin types at typical cosmetic concentrations.
Also known as
white peony root extract, tree peony root extract, paeonia albiflora, paeonia suffruticosa, paeonia root, paeoniflorin source