Aged-tangerine-peel (Chen-pi) – The Herb Used in Traditional Systems to Support Digestion and Qi RegulationAged-tangerine-peel (Chen-pi) is the traditional Chinese medicine name for the dried peel of ripe Citrus reticulata(mandarin/tangerine), one of the most popular and safest TCM herbs, used for over 2000 years. It is particularly valued for its ability to strengthen the Spleen, regulate Qi flow, support normal moisture levels and transform phlegm – making it an ideal choice for people with digestive discomfort, bloating and sluggish or confused sensations.Traditional Understanding in TCM SystemsWithin traditional Chinese medicine, aged-tangerine-peel (Chen-pi) is described as an aromatic, acrid and bitter herb with a warm character. In the TCM theoretical framework, it acts on the so‑called Lung, Spleen and Stomach meridians. According to this traditional description, aged-tangerine-peel (Chen-pi) supports normal Qi circulation and promotes the so‑called "transportive function" of the Spleen – meaning it helps transform food better and move it normally through the digestive system.Aged-tangerine-peel (Chen-pi) is also seen as an herb that "transforms Damp" and "dissolves Phlegm" – crucial TCM concepts for normal fluid balance and mucus production. It is traditionally used to promote normal digestion, to support normal gas excretion, to relieve superficial abdominal distension and to ease feelings of nausea.Special Property: Age Increases PotencyAged-tangerine-peel (Chen-pi) distinguishes itself by the fact that it improves with age – classically viewed as "strengthened by time." The older the aged-tangerine-peel (Chen-pi), the stronger the Qi-regulating action. Very old Chen-pi (10+ years) is highly valuable and considered almost as precious as gold.Botanical Composition and ResearchAged-tangerine-peel (Chen-pi) contains over 167 bioactive compounds, of which the main ones are:Limonene (up to 90% of essential oil) – strong antimicrobial actionβ-Elemene – supports normal immune responseFlavonoids (hesperidin, nobiletin, tangeretin) – antioxidant actionPolymethoxyflavones (PMFs) – anti-inflammatory propertiesPhenolic acids (caffeic acid, ferulic acid)Limonoids and triterpenesModern scientific research shows that aged-tangerine-peel (Chen-pi) extracts can offer diverse benefits:Digestive support: Studies show that limonene and flavonoids can promote normal gastric emptying, support normal peristalsis and help provide normal gastro-intestinal mucosa protection.Anti-inflammatory action: Polymethoxyflavones (PMFs) can help maintain normal inflammation balance in the digestive tract.Antioxidant activity: aged-tangerine-peel (Chen-pi) possesses strong free-radical-fighting action, especially in older forms where hesperidin oxidizes to nobiletin and other more potent flavonoids.Antimicrobial and antiviral action: Limonene and other terpenes have demonstrated antimicrobial activity against various bacteria and fungi.Normal moisture transformation: Traditionally used to support normal fluid metabolism and normal urinary excretion.Support for normal cholesterol: Research suggests that certain flavonoids can support normal lipid profiles.Support for normal lung health: aged-tangerine-peel (Chen-pi) is traditionally also used to support normal respiratory comfort and normal mucus production.Traditional Applications – TCM ContextIn traditional TCM formulas, aged-tangerine-peel (Chen-pi) is classically used in situations described as:Superficially full or bloated sensation after mealsSluggish digestive feeling or difficulty with regular digestionSuperficial gas formation or abdominal discomfortNausea or feelings of bodily discomfortSupporting normal mucus productionSupporting normal fluid balance maintenanceSuperficial coughing sensation with phlegmSupporting normal Qi circulation generallyThese are traditionalist descriptions that form part of the TCM thinking system and must not be equated with medical diagnoses in the sense of European medicinal product law.Aromatic and Qi-Regulating CharacterAged-tangerine-peel (Chen-pi) is traditionally seen as the "aromatic" character – meaning it brings aroma and warmth to the digestive system and helps promote normal Qi movement. This aromatic character also helps prevent heavy tonics from feeling too "heavy."Classical Formula: Chen Pi Cha (Chen Pi Tea)The most popular application is simple Chen-pi tea – pieces of dried aged-tangerine-peel (Chen-pi) in hot water, traditionally used as a daily wellness routine for digestive comfort. This is also a popular food additive.Difference: Chen Pi vs. Ju HongImportant distinction:Aged-tangerine-peel (Chen-pi): complete peel (including white inner layer) – milder, more Qi-regulatingJu Hong: red outer layer only – stronger, more phlegm-transformingSeasonality and Daily UseAged-tangerine-peel (Chen-pi) fits well into daily wellness routines, not seasonally dependent. It is a very safe, daily-usable herb, often used as part of tea or soups.Well-being and Daily UseAged-tangerine-peel (Chen-pi) is valued by modern users as part of a conscious wellness routine aimed at digestive comfort, normal Qi circulation and overall digestive vitality. The herb works optimally in daily tea, in soups, in rice dishes, combined with regular movement and balanced nutrition.Many users see aged-tangerine-peel (Chen-pi) as part of a daily health practice – as a supportive element in traditional routines, alongside professional guidance and regular medical care when needed.Very Safe ProfileAged-tangerine-peel (Chen-pi) is known as one of the safest TCM herbs, suitable for long-term daily use, pregnant women and children (under supervision). It has no known toxic components and is also used as a food ingredient.Important Note for the ConsumerThis product is a dietary supplement and can also be used as a food ingredient. TCM terms such as Qi-Regulation, Spleen-Strengthening and Phlegm-Transformation are system concepts that form part of a traditional thinking system and must not be directly equated with anatomical structures or disease explanations in modern medicine. If you have persistent or serious digestive complaints, you should always consult a doctor or health expert.
