Bai Shao (Chao)

Paeoniae Radix Alba (Stir-baked) Stir-bake the slices of Paeoniae Radix Alba according to the method for simple stir-baking (0213) until yellowish. Description Similar to the slices of the crude drug. Outer surface pale yellow or pale brownish-yellow. Occasionally with scorched spots. Odour slightly aromatic. Identification As required for the crude drug. Water Not more than 10.0%, following the method for the crude drug. Total Ash, Residual Sulfur Dioxide, and Extractives As required for the crude drug. Assay Contains not less than 1.2% of paeoniflorin (C₂₃H₂₈O₁₁), following the method for the crude drug. Paeoniae Radix Alba (Stir-baked with Wine) Stir-bake the slices of Paeoniae Radix Alba according to the method for stir-baking with wine (0213) until yellowish. Description Similar to the slices of the crude drug. Outer surface pale yellow or pale brownish-yellow. Occasionally with scorched spots. Slightly aromatic with the odour of wine. Identification As required for the crude drug. Water, Total Ash, and Residual Sulfur Dioxide As required for the crude drug. Extractives Not less than 20.5%, following the method for the crude drug. Assay Contains not less than 1.2% of paeoniflorin (C₂₃H₂₈O₁₁), following the method for the crude drug. Property and Flavor Mildly cold; bitter and sour. Meridian Tropism Liver and Spleen meridians. Actions To nourish the blood, regulate menstruation, preserve yin, stop sweating, soften the liver, relieve pain, and calm hyperactive liver yang. Indications Blood deficiency with sallow complexion, irregular menstruation, spontaneous sweating, night sweating, hypochondriac pain, abdominal pain, spasms and pain of the limbs, headache, and dizziness. Administration and Dosage 6–15 g. Precautions and Warnings Incompatible with Radix et Rhizoma Veratri Nigri. Storage Preserve in a dry place, protected from insects.