Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Tangerine (Citrus reticulata) has been used traditionally in various cultures, particularly in East Asian herbal medicine, to help prevent or treat colds and related respiratory ailments. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), the dried peel of tangerine (known as Chen Pi) is a common ingredient in decoctions aimed at resolving phlegm, improving digestion, and supporting respiratory health. The rationale is based on its aromatic and warming properties, believed to help regulate qi (energy flow) and alleviate symptoms such as cough and congestion.

From a scientific perspective, tangerines are rich in vitamin C and flavonoids, compounds that are often associated with immune support. While increased vitamin C intake is popularly linked to a reduced duration and severity of colds, studies specifically on tangerines for cold prevention are lacking. The evidence for vitamin C’s efficacy in cold prevention is mixed, with some studies showing modest benefits, especially in individuals exposed to physical stress. However, these findings cannot be directly attributed to tangerines alone.

Overall, the use of tangerine for the prevention of colds is primarily rooted in traditional practice and anecdotal experience rather than robust scientific validation. Although its nutritional content may offer some immune support, there is limited direct clinical evidence to confirm its effectiveness for this specific purpose.

More about tangerine
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