Cosmetics · Plant extracts

Paeonia Lactiflora Root Extract

シャクヤク根エキス (Shakuyaku-kon ekisu)

Also known as: Shakuyaku Extract, White Peony Root Extract

At a glance

CategoryCosmetics
INCI namePaeonia Lactiflora Root Extract
Japanese labeling nameシャクヤク根エキス
Common Japanese notationsシャクヤク根エキス, 芍薬根エキス
OriginPlant-derived (Paeonia lactiflora, white peony)
Typical functionsSkin conditioning, Soothing, Antioxidant
Regulatory status in JapanCosmetic ingredient listed in the JSCI labeling name dictionary. The dried root is also a Kampo medicinal material (芍薬, shakuyaku).

Shakuyaku — Paeonia lactiflora — is one of the most frequently used botanicals in Kampo medicine and a defining spring flower in Japanese gardens. The dried root has a long medicinal heritage and appears in many Kampo formulations. As a cosmetic ingredient, shakuyaku root extract is used in sensitive-skin and heritage-positioning product lines.

Classification

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Used in (typical product categories)

Finished-product categories that commonly include this ingredient in Japanese-market formulations.

  • Sensitive skin formulations
  • Kampo-adjacent cosmetic lines
  • Face toners and essences

What it is

Paeonia lactiflora root extract is produced by water or hydro-alcoholic extraction of Paeonia lactiflora roots. The extract contains paeoniflorin — a glycoside characteristic of this species — along with tannins, flavonoids, and triterpenes.

Typical uses in Japanese products

In cosmetics, shakuyaku root extract appears in sensitive-skin toners and essences. It is often combined with tōki (Angelica acutiloba) root extract in Kampo-adjacent formulations.

Regulatory classification in Japan

Cosmetic use is permitted under the JSCI dictionary. Shakuyaku as a Kampo medicinal material is regulated separately under the Pharmaceutical and Medical Device Act.

Regulatory classification in other markets

EUListed in CosIng. Permitted for cosmetic use.
USAINCI recognized by PCPC.
ChinaWidely used in Chinese traditional preparations.
KoreaPermitted under KFDA / MFDS.

Example products

Example finished products will be added after each product's current full ingredient list has been verified.

All brand names and product names referenced anywhere on this site are the property of their respective owners. Example entries are provided for informational purposes only and do not imply endorsement.

Related ingredients

References

  1. JSCI labeling name directory — シャクヤク根エキス
  2. EU CosIng entry: Paeonia Lactiflora Root Extract

Last updated: 2026-04-22. Ingredient entries are reviewed at least annually against current regulatory listings.

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