Chen pi (citrus reticulata)
Synopsis of chen pi
Chen Pi (陳皮), also known as aged tangerine peel, is the dried peel of mature citrus fruit, typically Citrus reticulata (mandarin orange), and is a classic herb in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). Revered for its ability to regulate qi (vital energy), strengthen digestion, and resolve phlegm, Chen Pi is considered a warming, aromatic herb that primarily supports the spleen, stomach, and lung systems.
Chen Pi contains:
- Volatile oils (limonene, pinene, myrcene) – help stimulate digestion, reduce gas, and disperse phlegm
- Flavonoids (hesperidin, nobiletin) – offer anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and cholesterol-lowering effects
- Alkaloids and bitter compounds – aid in bile secretion and digestive regulation
Therapeutic actions and benefits include:
- Regulating qi and easing digestive stagnation, especially bloating, belching, and nausea
- Drying dampness and transforming phlegm in the lungs, useful in chronic cough or congestion
- Harmonizing the middle burner (spleen and stomach) in formulas
- Supporting appetite and gut motility in those with weak or sluggish digestion
- Reducing food retention and discomfort from overconsumption
Chen Pi is used in:
- Decoctions and classical TCM formulas
- Powdered or sliced form added to teas or congees
- Digestive tonics and respiratory support blends
Historical Use:
Chen Pi has been used for over 1,000 years in TCM, often aged for several years or more to increase its potency and reduce harshness. It is a foundational herb in many famous Chinese formulas, such as Er Chen Tang (Two Aged Herbs Decoction) for phlegm and dampness, and Xiang Sha Liu Jun Zi Tang for digestive weakness and gas.
In TCM theory, Chen Pi is considered warming, aromatic, bitter, and pungent, and is used to regulate liver and spleen qi, helping to relieve emotional digestive issues such as those triggered by stress or worry.
Today, Chen Pi remains a staple herb in Chinese herbal practice, especially valued for its digestive and respiratory applications, and is also used culinarily in soups, teas, and medicinal broths across East Asia. Its combination of mild stimulation, aromatic bitterness, and gentle warming action makes it one of the most versatile and dependable qi-regulating herbs in traditional medicine.
Chen pi is used for these health conditions
Abdominal Pain (Traditional)
Acid Indigestion (Traditional)
Appetite (deficient) (Traditional)
Belching (Traditional)
Bronchitis (Traditional)
Circulation (poor) (Traditional)
Colds (decongestant) (Traditional)
Congestion (bronchial) (Traditional)
Congestion (lungs) (Traditional)
Congestion (sinus) (Traditional)
Cough (damp) (Traditional)
Cough (general) (Traditional)
Cough (spastic) (Traditional)
Digestion (poor) (Traditional)
Edema (Traditional)
Fatigue (Traditional)
Gas and Bloating (Traditional)
Gastritis (Traditional)
Indigestion (Traditional)
Inflammation (Traditional)
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (Traditional)
Nausea and Vomiting (Traditional)
Pain (general remedies for) (Traditional)
Wheezing (Traditional)
chen pi is used to support these body systems
Digestive System (Traditional)
Gastrointestinal Tract (Traditional)
Intestinal System (Traditional)
Large Intestines (Colon) (Traditional)
Liver (Traditional)
Lungs (Traditional)
Respiratory System (Traditional)
Spleen (Traditional)
Stomach (Traditional)
