Overview of the efficacy and functions of tangerine peel

As a traditional Chinese medicinal material, tangerine peel has core functions such as regulating qi and strengthening the spleen, drying dampness and reducing phlegm. It is widely used in the treatment of digestive system and respiratory system problems. Its main components are volatile oil and flavonoids, which provide it with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and other auxiliary effects. In terms of content structure, this article will start from Chen Pi’sCore functions(such as strengthening the spleen and reducing phlegm),secondary effect(e.g. improved appetite) andPrecautions for useExpand to help readers systematically understand its value and applicable scenarios.

Core functions: Regulating qi, strengthening the spleen, drying dampness and resolving phlegm

The most significant effect of tangerine peel is to regulate spleen and stomach qi stagnation and relieve symptoms such as abdominal distension and loss of appetite. Its volatile oil components can promote the secretion of digestive juices and enhance intestinal peristalsis. At the same time, tangerine peel has the effect of relieving respiratory problems such as cough with excessive phlegm and chest tightness through its properties of drying dampness and reducing phlegm. Research shows that the content of tangerine peelHesperidinIt has anti-inflammatory effects and can reduce bronchial mucosal edema (see Table 1 for data). In addition, people often drink tangerine peel soaked in water instead of tea to help improve the feeling of fullness after meals.

Secondary functions and daily applications

In addition to its core functions, tangerine peel can also help lower fat and soothe mood. Modern research has found that its flavonoids can slightly regulate blood lipids and is suitable for people with greasy diets. In Guangdong, tangerine peel is often cooked with red beans and barley to make a therapeutic prescription for removing dampness. It should be noted that tangerine peel is warm in nature and long-term overdose may cause dry mouth. It is recommended to drink it no more than 3 times a week, 3-5 grams each time.

Usage taboos and matching suggestions

Although tangerine peel is widely used, it should be used with caution by those with yin deficiency and excessive fire (such as red tongue with little coating) and pregnant women. Combining it with hawthorn and malt can enhance the digestion effect; if it is used to resolve phlegm, it is recommended to combine it with almonds and perilla leaves. Li Shizhen, a physician in the Ming Dynasty, emphasized in "Compendium of Materia Medica": "Taking tangerine peel for a long time will damage the vitality", suggesting that it needs to be used based on syndrome differentiation and to avoid blind long-term use.

Summary and scientific understanding

As a representative of the origin of medicine and food, tangerine peel's effect of strengthening the spleen and reducing phlegm has been verified by both traditional and modern medicine. Reasonable use can improve the symptoms of indigestion and damp phlegm, but attention should be paid to physical fitness and dosage control. It is recommended to choose raw tangerine peel (which tends to reduce phlegm) or fried tangerine peel (which tends to strengthen the spleen) under the guidance of a doctor and based on your personal constitution to maximize its health value.

Citing sources

1. "Chinese Pharmacopoeia" 2020 Edition (National Pharmacopoeia Commission)
2. Li Shizhen's "Compendium of Materia Medica" (medical work of the Ming Dynasty)
3. Zhang Ming et al. "Pharmacology and Application of Traditional Chinese Medicine" (People's Medical Publishing House, 2018 edition)