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Dietary supplement

Chi Shao Ingredients & Drug Interactions

by Herbal Terra

Liquid Category: Botanical
Most serious interaction: Moderate
The interaction bottom line Most serious interaction: Moderate

Chi Shao is a dietary supplement by Herbal Terra with 1 active ingredient. Its ingredients are commonly taken for menstrual cramps and irregular periods, muscle cramps and spasms, anxiety and stress.Based on those ingredients, 811 medications have a known interaction with it, the most serious rated moderate. The ingredients most likely to interact are Paeonia rubra Root Extract, Dry. Use the checker below to test your specific medication, or read the full HelloPharmacist Interaction Report.

HelloPharmacist Scorecard of Chi Shao by Herbal Terra

Our pharmacy team’s full take, with four database checks built into the cards below — a summary of what is known, not a grade of the product itself.

From our pharmacy team — supplement deep dive

What’s inside

Full disclosure
Ingredient Transparency · database check
Full

Every active ingredient lists its own amount on the label.

Why this rating?
  • The label discloses an exact amount for 1 of its 1 active ingredient.
  • No proprietary blends here — you can verify the dose of every single component.

Chi Shao contains one active ingredient: Paeonia rubra Root Extract, a concentrated form of red peony root, which has been used traditionally in Chinese herbal practice. The liquid also includes alcohol, water, and glycerin as inactive ingredients to preserve and deliver the extract.

Does it work?

Couldn't assess
Evidence for Intended Use · database check
By FDA rules, dietary supplements can’t claim to treat, cure, or prevent disease — so labels speak in careful marketing language. We discern each product’s intended use from its name, label claims, and label statements, then grade the clinical evidence for that use. How these ratings are computed
Not assessable

This is a single-ingredient Peony product and its label doesn't state a use — see Peony's own graded uses on its monograph.

Why this rating?
  • We looked at the product name, claims, and label statements and couldn't find a stated purpose to grade.

The evidence for peony isn't established in the data we hold. The product is marketed for conditions like aging skin, anal fissures, atherosclerosis, chronic fatigue, cirrhosis, and migraines, but all of these have insufficient reliable evidence to rate.

If you're considering Chi Shao for one of these uses, talk with your pharmacist or doctor about whether the evidence supports it for your situation.

The evidence, ingredient by ingredient Peony

How safe is it?

Well-documented data
Safety Information · database check
Well characterized

Adverse-effect, pregnancy, and general safety data are on file for most of these ingredients.

Why this rating?
  • We hold adverse-effect (side-effect) data for 1 of the 1 matched ingredient.
  • Pregnancy & breastfeeding safety ratings cover 1 of 1.
  • General safety write-ups exist for 1 of 1.
  • Remember: this measures how much safety information exists. Thin data is not the same as being safe.

Peony is generally well tolerated for short-term use when taken by mouth, though high-quality safety data are limited. Some people report mild gastrointestinal side effects — abdominal bloating, loss of appetite, diarrhea, nausea, or general stomach discomfort — with diarrhea occurring in a small number of trial participants.

One case report linked peony to bleeding problems in a patient on warfarin, underscoring the importance of caution with blood thinners. Pregnancy and breastfeeding: The safety data advises against use during pregnancy because traditional uses raise concern and data are sparse.

There isn't enough reliable information to consider peony safe while breastfeeding either. Talk with your doctor or pharmacist for personalized advice if you're pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or nursing.

Side effects, ingredient by ingredient Peony

Meds to double-check

Moderate interaction found
Known Interaction Concern · database check
Moderate identified

The most serious documented interaction for these ingredients is Moderate. Check your medications for a personalized result.

Why this rating?
  • 1 of the 1 matched ingredient can interact with medications — Peony.
  • The most serious interaction on file is rated Moderate.
  • Some involve high-stakes drug classes: anticoagulant / antiplatelet drugs.
  • For scale: 812 individual medications appear in the full list. A big number alone doesn't make a product dangerous — what matters is whether YOUR medication is on it, so run yours through the interaction checker on this page.

Before taking Chi Shao, double-check with your pharmacist if you're on blood thinners or antiplatelet drugs (like warfarin or aspirin), birth control pills or hormone replacement therapy, medications processed by liver enzymes CYP1A2 or CYP3A4 (including clozapine), or the seizure medicine phenytoin. All documented interactions are Moderate severity.

Check your own medication Run your meds through the checker above

The bottom line

Scorecard at a glanceFully disclosed formula with no assessable stated purpose. Moderate medication interactions have been identified, and safety information is well characterized.

Chi Shao is a single-ingredient peony extract that's generally well tolerated but carries documented interactions with blood thinners, hormone-based medications, and certain liver-metabolized drugs. If you take warfarin, aspirin, birth control, hormone therapy, clozapine, or phenytoin, check with your pharmacist before starting.

Avoid during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Educational only — not medical advice; always confirm with your pharmacist. Our editorial policy · How we use AI

Assessment coverage: 1 of 1 active ingredient matched to our full ingredient reviews (monographs). Based on the product label dated Nov 22, 2024.

This Scorecard evaluates available label information, ingredient evidence, and known medication-safety considerations. It does not independently verify product identity, purity, potency, contamination, or manufacturing quality. How these ratings are computed

At a glance

General information

Key facts about Chi Shao, straight from the product label.

Brand Herbal Terra
Barcode (UPC) 7386004955984
Net contents 2 Fluid Ounce(s); 60 mL
Market status On market
Date entered into DSLD Nov 22, 2024
DSLD ID 324913
Product type Botanical
Supplement form Liquid
Dietary claims / uses All Other, Structure/Function
Intended target group(s) Adult (18 - 50 Years), Gluten Free, Sugar Free
From the label
Everything in this section is reproduced from the manufacturer’s own product label — it’s the label speaking, not HelloPharmacist. We show it so you can see exactly what the maker states; we don’t verify or endorse those statements.

Supplement Facts

The label details for Chi Shao by Herbal Terra, sourced from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database.

Supplement Facts

Daily Value (DV) Target Group(s):
Adults and children 4 or more years of age
Minimum serving Sizes:
1 mL
Maximum serving Sizes:
1 mL
Servings per container
60
UPC/BARCODE
7386004955984
IngredientAmount% DV
Paeonia rubra Root Extract, Dry983 mg--

Other ingredients: Alcohol, Water, Glycerin

Tap any ingredient to jump to its full detail below.

Label statements
These statements are the manufacturer’s wording, reproduced from the product label — the label is saying it, not HelloPharmacist. We don’t verify or endorse them.
Suggested/Recommended/Usage/Directions

Shake well before use. Adults take up to 30 drops (1 mL, one full squeeze of the dropper bulb) in 3-4 fl. oz. of juice or water up to 4 times a day.

Precautions

We recommend to seek expert medical advice before taking. May have contraindications and cause adverse reaction.

Consult a physician before giving to children under 18, before using during pregnancy, if nursing, or if you are on any medications.

Consult a physician before giving to children under 18, before using during pregnancy, if nursing, or if you are on any medications. Keep out of the reach of children!

Do not use if you are allergic to any ingredients.

Storage

Store in a cool, dry, dark place.

FDA Disclaimer Statement

This product has not been evaluated by the FDA and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

Formulation

cGMP Made in compliance with cGMP 21 CFR 111 in an FDA registered and inspected facility.

Sugar free

Expertly extracted 100% natural Premium product

Organic alcohol

No artificial ingredients, color additives, fillers or binders.

Natural Gluten free

Formula

Paeonia rubra

Organic alcohol

FDA Statement of Identity

Herbal Supplement

General Statements

Organic raw material.

Seals/Symbols

Made in USA

See for yourself

Chi Shao by Herbal Terra label

The label scan from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database. Tap to enlarge.

What’s inside

The Ingredients in Chi Shao by Herbal Terra

This is the 1 active ingredient this product is made of. Select it to open its full monograph.

Serving size1 mL Dosage formLiquid Servings per container60 Amounts shown are per serving.

Paeonia rubra Root Extract, Dry

Interacts with
811 drugs
983 mg per serving

Peony root is a traditional Chinese medicine herb often used for menstrual problems, cramps, and inflammation, frequently as part of combination formu...

Paeonia rubra Root Extract, Dry monograph & interactions

Other (inactive) ingredients: Alcohol, Water, Glycerin. These complete the product’s ingredient list but are not active constituents.

Interaction report

Chi Shao by Herbal Terra Drug Interactions

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Ask about interactions with your drugs in plain English — “Can I take it with lisinopril?” — and we find you the answer in seconds, ingredient by ingredient.

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811Drugs
811 Moderate

Ingredients driving the most interactions

Each ingredient & the kinds of drugs it affects

For each ingredient in Chi Shao with known interactions, here are the types of medications it can affect. Open any type for the detail — or search your exact drug in the checker above.

Paeonia rubra Root Extract, Dry7 drug types · 811 drugs

Anticoagulant/Antiplatelet Drugs

Theoretically, combining peony with anticoagulant or antiplatelet drugs might increase the risk of bleeding.
In vitro research suggests that peony might have antiplatelet, anticoagulant, and antithrombotic effects.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Clozapine (Clozaril)

Theoretically, peony might increase the levels and clinical effects of clozapine.
In vitro research shows that peony suppresses the metabolism of clozapine via weak-to-moderate inhibitory effects on cytochromes P450 (CYP) 1A2 and CYP3A4. This effect has not been reported in humans.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Contraceptive Drugs

Theoretically, peony might interfere with contraceptive drugs due to competition for estrogen receptors.
In vitro and animal research shows that peony extract has estrogenic activity. Concomitant use might also increase the risk for estrogen-related adverse effects.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Cytochrome P450 1A2 (Cyp1A2) Substrates

Theoretically, use of peony may increase the levels and clinical effects of drugs metabolized by CYP1A2.
In vitro research shows that peony suppresses the metabolism of clozapine via weak-to-moderate inhibitory effects on CYP1A2 and CYP3A4. This effect has not been reported in humans.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Cytochrome P450 3A4 (Cyp3A4) Substrates

Theoretically, use of peony may increase the levels and clinical effects of drugs metabolized by CYP3A4.
In vitro research shows that peony suppresses the metabolism of clozapine via weak-to-moderate inhibitory effects on CYP1A2 and CYP3A4. This effect has not been reported in humans.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Estrogens

Theoretically, concomitant use of large amounts of peony might interfere with hormone replacement therapy and/or increase the risk for estrogen-related adverse effects.
In vitro and animal research shows that peony extract has estrogenic activity. Theoretically, peony might compete for estrogen receptors and/or cause additive estrogenic effects.

Likelihood Possible Evidence D
Phenytoin (Dilantin)

Theoretically, peony might reduce the levels and clinical effects of phenytoin.
Animal research shows that taking peony root reduces levels of phenytoin. Some researchers suggest that peony root might affect cytochrome P450 (CYP) 2C9, which metabolizes phenytoin. However, preliminary research in humans shows that peony root does not alter levels of losartan (Cozaar), which is also metabolized by CYP2C9.

Likelihood Probable Evidence D
The maker

Brand information

Manufacturer and brand details for Chi Shao, from the product label.

Herbal Terra

See all Herbal Terra products
Name
Herbal Terra LLC
Phone Number
+18083857868
Web Address
herbalterra.com
Pharmacist Counseling Corner

Chi Shao by Herbal Terra: Common Questions

Does Chi Shao by Herbal Terra interact with any medications?
Yes. Based on its ingredients, Chi Shao has a known interaction with 811 medications. Use the checker to see how it interacts with a specific drug.
How can one product interact with so many drugs?
Chi Shao contains a single active ingredient, and that one ingredient can interact with many different medications on its own. We check it against each medication and show the mechanism responsible.
Where does this information come from?
The product label data comes from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database (DSLD); the interaction data is built on the Natural Medicines database and reviewed by HelloPharmacist pharmacists.
What's in Chi Shao?
Chi Shao is a liquid extract of red peony root — that's the only active ingredient. It also contains alcohol, water, and glycerin to preserve and deliver it.
Does peony actually work for what this product claims?
The evidence isn't established in our data. Chi Shao is marketed for conditions like aging skin, migraines, and fatigue, but all of them have insufficient reliable evidence. Talk with your pharmacist about whether peony makes sense for your specific use.
What side effects might I notice?
Most people tolerate it well, but some report mild stomach upset — bloating, nausea, diarrhea, or loss of appetite. Topical use (if applicable) can occasionally cause skin irritation. If you're on a blood thinner, there's a risk of easier bleeding.
Is it safe to take during pregnancy or while breastfeeding?
No. The safety data advises against it during pregnancy because traditional uses raise concern and data are sparse. There isn't enough information to call it safe while breastfeeding either. Talk with your doctor or pharmacist for personalized guidance.
I'm on warfarin — can I use this?
Not without talking to your pharmacist or doctor first. Lab research suggests peony may have blood-thinning effects, which could increase your bleeding risk on warfarin. There's even a case report of a patient who developed serious bleeding after taking a peony-containing product while stable on warfarin.
Does Chi Shao interact with birth control?
Possibly. Lab research shows peony has estrogenic activity, which means it might compete with or add to estrogen in your body. Theoretically, this could interfere with how well your birth control works or increase estrogen-related side effects. Check with your pharmacist before combining them.

Written and reviewed by the HelloPharmacist editorial staff. Our editorial policy

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Label information is sourced from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database and reflects the product version on file; always read your actual product label. This page is for education only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Confirm with your pharmacist or doctor before combining supplements and medications.

Chi Shao label
Sources

Sources & How We Checked

Chi Shao's label data comes from the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database; the ingredient interaction data is from the Natural Medicines database, reviewed by our pharmacists.

Content is written and reviewed by licensed HelloPharmacist pharmacists. See our data sources and editorial standards for how this information is built and checked.

The 15 references behind this product’s interaction data

Every citation that drives the interaction findings for this product’s ingredients, from the evidence-graded Natural Medicines (TRC Healthcare) database. Open an ingredient to browse its citations — links open the study on PubMed or the publisher’s site.

Peony 15 references
  1. Chen LC, Chou MH, Lin MF, Yang LL. Effects of Paeoniae Radix, a traditional Chinese medicine, on the pharmacokinetics of phenytoin. J Clin Pharm Ther 2001;26:271-8. PubMed
  2. Guo TL, Zhou XW. [Clinical observations on the treatment of the gestational hypertension syndrome with Angelica and Paeonia powder]. Zhong Xi Yi Jie He Za Zhi 1986;6:714-6, 707.
  3. Xie HJ, Yasar U, Sandberg M, Rane A. Paeoniae Radix, a traditional Chinese medicine, and CYP2C9 activity. J Clin Pharm Ther 2002;27:229-30. . PubMed
  4. Harada M, Suzuki M, Ozaki Y. Effect of Japanese Angelica root and peony root on uterine contraction in the rabbit in situ. J Pharmacobiodyn 1984;7:304-11. PubMed
  5. Anon. Monograph. Peony (Paeonia spp). Alt Med Rev 2001;6:495-9.
  6. Bruynzeel DP. Contact Dermatitis Due to Paeonia (Peony). Contact Dermatitis 1989; 20:152-3..
  7. Bian, X., Xu, Y., Zhu, L., Gao, P., Liu, X., Liu, S., Qian, M., Gai, M., Yang, J., and Wu, Y. Prevention of maternal-fetal blood group incompatibility with traditional Chinese herbal medicine. Chin Med J (Engl.) 1998;111(7):585-587.
  8. Wong, A. L. and Chan, T. Y. Interaction between warfarin and the herbal product quilinggao. Ann Pharmacother 2003;37(6):836-838.
  9. Cai Y, Yuan Q, Xu K, et al. Assessment of the therapeutic effect of total glycosides of peony for juvenile idiopathic arthritis: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Evid Based Complement Alternat Med 2016;2016:8292486.
  10. Koo YK, Kim JM, Koo JY, et al. Platelet anti-aggregatory and blood anti-coagulant effects of compounds isolated from Paeonia lactiflora and Paeonia suffruticosa. Pharmazie 2010;65(8):624-8.
  11. Wang W, Tian DD, Zheng B, et al. Peony-glycyrrhiza decoction, an herbal preparation, inhibits clozapine metabolism via cytochrome P450s, but not flavin-containing monooxygenase in in vitro models. Drug Metab Dispos 2015;43(7):1147-53. PubMed
  12. Zhou Y, Jin L, Kong F, et al. Clinical and immunological consequences of total glucosides of paeony treatment in Sjögren's syndrome: A randomized controlled pilot trial. Int Immunopharmacol. 2016 Oct;39:314-319. doi: 10.1016/j.intimp.2016.08.006. PubMed
  13. Zhu Q, Qi X, Wu Y, Wang K. Clinical study of total glucosides of paeony for the treatment of diabetic kidney disease in patients with diabetes mellitus. Int Urol Nephrol. 2016 Nov;48(11):1873-1880. doi: 10.1007/s11255-016-1345-5. PubMed
  14. Xu Y, Li X, Chen T, et al. Radix Paeoniae Alba increases serum estrogen level and up-regulates estrogen receptor expression in uterus and vagina of immature/ovariectomized mice. Phytother Res. 2019;33(1):117-29. [RETRACTED].
  15. Liu X, Li X, Li X, et al. The efficacy and safety of total glucosides of peony in the treatment of primary Sjögren's syndrome: a multi-center, randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled clinical trial. Clin Rheumatol. 2019;38(3):657-64. Erratum i

See these in context on the Peony monograph →

Parts of this content are provided by the Therapeutic Research Center, LLC.

DISCLAIMER: Currently this does not check for drug-drug interactions. This is not an all-inclusive comprehensive list of potential interactions and is for informational purposes only. Not all interactions are known or well-reported in the scientific literature, and new interactions are continually being reported. Input is needed from a qualified healthcare provider including a pharmacist before starting any therapy. Application of clinical judgment is necessary.

© 2021 Therapeutic Research Center, LLC

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