Dried Tangerine Peel (Chen Pi)

Chen Pi is the dried mature peel of Citrus reticulata and its cultivars. In TCM, the older the peel, the better—hence the name “Chen” (aged) “Pi” (peel). The saying “one liang of Chen Pi equals one liang of gold” reflects its value in regulating qi.

TCM Properties

• Taste: Acrid, bitter
• Nature: Warm
• Meridians: Spleen, Lung
• Functions: Regulates qi, strengthens spleen, dries dampness, transforms phlegm

Key Benefits

1. Regulates Qi

Chen Pi moves qi and harmonizes the middle burner, effective for spleen-stomach qi stagnation with bloating and poor appetite.

2. Dries Dampness & Transforms Phlegm

Chen Pi dries dampness and transforms phlegm, commonly used for cough with copious phlegm.

3. Harmonizes Stomach

Chen Pi descends rebellious qi and stops vomiting from stomach qi counterflow.

4. Aids Digestion

Chen Pi assists digestion; combined with hawthorn and shen qu for food stagnation.

Classic Preparations

Chen Pi Tea

• 3-5g Chen Pi in hot water
• Drink after meals to regulate qi

Chen Pi Ginger Tea

• 5g Chen Pi, 3 slices ginger
• Simmer as tea
• Warms stomach, stops vomiting

Chen Pi Congee

• 5g Chen Pi with rice
• Cook as porridge
• Strengthens spleen, opens appetite

Precautions

• Use with caution in qi deficiency and yin deficiency dry cough
• Avoid in hemoptysis
• Do not use excessively with warming herbs