Herbal Information on Chen Pi Tangerine Dried Rind Of Mature Fruit
Chen Pi refers to the dried peel of mature tangerines and is widely used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). It is known for its aromatic, pungent, and slightly bitter qualities.
Key Uses and Benefits:
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Digestive Health: Chen Pi is primarily used to improve digestion, relieve abdominal bloating, and reduce gas. It is thought to help in "moving" the Qi, thus relieving Qi stagnation in the stomach and spleen, which can cause digestive disturbances.
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Respiratory Health: It is used to break up phlegm and alleviate congestion, making it beneficial for those suffering from coughs and colds with heavy mucus.
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Circulatory Benefits: Chen Pi is also employed to invigorate the spleen and harmonize the stomach, which in TCM theory helps in promoting the smooth flow of blood and Qi (energy) throughout the body.
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Anti-inflammatory Properties: Recent studies have shown that the flavonoids in Chen Pi have anti-inflammatory effects, which can help reduce inflammation in the body.
Chen Pi is often used in cooking as well, particularly in Chinese cuisine, where it adds a distinctive citrus flavor to dishes. Research suggests that the maturation process of this particular citrus peel enhances its therapeutic value by enriching its volatile oils and flavonoids.
How To Use Chen Pi
Chen Pi, or dried tangerine peel, is versatile and can be used in various ways to harness its health benefits. Here are some common methods to use Chen Pi:
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Chen Pi Tea:
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Measure the Powder: Start by measuring the recommended amount of Chen Pi extract powder. Typically, about 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of the powder is sufficient for one cup of tea, but you should check the packaging for specific dosage recommendations.
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Prepare Hot Water: Boil water as you would for any tea. Once the water reaches a rolling boil, remove it from the heat.
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Mix the Powder: Place the Chen Pi extract powder in a tea cup or mug. Pour the hot water directly over the powder.
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Stir Thoroughly: Stir the mixture thoroughly to ensure that the extract powder is completely dissolved in the water. This ensures that the active compounds are evenly distributed in the tea.
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Steep: Allow the tea to steep for about 3 to 5 minutes. This steeping time lets the flavor develop fully.
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Taste and Adjust: Taste your tea. If it’s too strong, you can add more hot water. If it’s too weak, consider adding a bit more powder in your next cup.
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Enjoy: Once the tea is to your liking, it's ready to drink. You can enjoy it as is or add honey or lemon for additional flavor.
Chen Pi tea is beneficial for digestion and can be particularly soothing after meals. Enjoying this tea regularly can help promote a healthy digestive system and may also offer respiratory benefits by helping to clear phlegm.
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Powdered Form: Chen Pi can also be ground into a powder and used in capsules for consistent, easy consumption, especially for those who want to include it as a regular supplement in their diet.
Ancient Preservation Method: Chen Pi is made by sun-drying tangerine or mandarin orange peels. This practice has been used for centuries in China, not only as a way to preserve the peels for off-season use but also to enhance their flavor and medicinal properties. As the peels age, they develop a richer taste and stronger therapeutic effects.
Common Name: Citrus Peel, Pericarpium Citri Reticulatae, Tangerine Peel, Mature Trangerine peel
Botanical Name: Citrus reticulata peel
Pin Yin Name: Chen Pi, Chenpi
Concentration Ratio: 6x
Dosage: Take 0.5 g each time, 1 to 3 times per day, or as instructed by a herbal practitioner. Dissolve in hot water or mix into yogurt.Follow doctors instructions on how to use this herb.
Origin: China
Brand: ActiveHerb
Cautions: Do not use if pregnant or nursing.
Naturally Occurring Components: Evaporating oils, flavonoids
Product Properties: acrid, bitter, warm, aromatic
Channels: Lung, Spleen, Stomach
Check out our How to Use Bulk Herbs page to see how to use herbs correctly. Our web page is constantly expanding, as of today we have articles on:
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Traditional Chinese Herbs
Chinese Traditional herbs should be regarded as an added feature to modern western healthcare, and not as a replacement. Chinese traditional herbs ( Teas ) emphasize harmony, and balance.
References:
https://www.mayway.com/articles/making-organic-chen-pi-for-your-clinic
https://www.americandragon.com/Individualherbsupdate/ChenPi.html
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chenpi
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8381872/
