Rock Sugar Tangerine Peel
Rock Sugar Tangerine Peel (Bing Tang Chen Pi): A Warm, Sweet-Aromatic Pairing for Regulating Qi, Supporting Digestion, and Soothing the Lungs
Introduction
Rock Sugar Tangerine Peel, commonly prepared as Bing Tang Chen Pi (冰糖陈皮) in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) food therapy, is traditionally used to regulate Qi, support digestion, and gently soothe the Lungs. Warm and aromatic from Tangerine Peel and sweet and moistening from Rock Sugar, this pairing is valued for easing cough, phlegm, and digestive discomfort.
What Is Rock Sugar Tangerine Peel (Bing Tang Chen Pi)?
Rock Sugar Tangerine Peel combines dried Tangerine Peel (Chen Pi, 陈皮) with Rock Sugar (Bing Tang, 冰糖). In TCM, Chen Pi is known for regulating Qi, drying Dampness, and transforming Phlegm, while Rock Sugar gently moistens dryness and soothes the throat. Together, they are commonly simmered as a tea or syrup for respiratory and digestive support.
Health Benefits of Rock Sugar Tangerine Peel (Bing Tang Chen Pi)
Regulates Qi and Supports Digestion
Chen Pi helps move stagnant Qi in the Middle Burner, easing bloating, fullness, and mild nausea, while Rock Sugar softens its drying nature.
Transforms Phlegm and Soothes Cough
This pairing is traditionally used for cough with phlegm, especially when accompanied by chest tightness or throat irritation.
Moistens and Comforts the Lungs
Rock Sugar gently nourishes fluids and helps relieve dryness, making the preparation suitable for dry coughs or hoarseness.
How to Use Rock Sugar Tangerine Peel (Bing Tang Chen Pi)
As a Food Therapy
Simmer dried Tangerine Peel with Rock Sugar and water to make a light tea or syrup, often consumed warm.
As a Home Remedy Drink
Commonly used during seasonal coughs or digestive sluggishness, especially after heavy or greasy meals.
In Traditional Preparations
Frequently included in gentle, everyday remedies for children and adults to soothe the throat and support digestion.
Where to Buy Rock Sugar Tangerine Peel Ingredients
You can find the ingredients at:
- Traditional Chinese medicine shops
- Asian grocery stores
- Licensed online herbal and food retailers
Look for:
- Well-aged, aromatic dried Tangerine Peel
- Clear, crystalline Rock Sugar
- No musty smell, mold, or excessive bitterness
Are There Any Side Effects?
This preparation is generally gentle when used in moderate amounts. Excessive use may be unsuitable for those with Heat signs, Yin deficiency with Heat, or very dry constitutions if taken long-term.
Conclusion
Rock Sugar Tangerine Peel (Bing Tang Chen Pi) is a classic TCM food remedy used to regulate Qi, support digestion, transform phlegm, and gently soothe the Lungs.
FAQs
Is Rock Sugar Tangerine Peel toxic?
No, both ingredients are non-toxic and widely used in food and traditional remedies when properly prepared.
Can Rock Sugar Tangerine Peel be used daily?
Yes, it can be used occasionally or regularly in small amounts, especially for digestion and mild cough support.
Is Rock Sugar Tangerine Peel warming or cooling?
Overall, it is mildly warming due to Tangerine Peel, balanced by the gentle, moistening nature of Rock Sugar.