Aged Tangerine Pith

Aged Tangerine Pith (Chen Pi Bai): A Mild, Bitter-Sweet Food Therapy for Regulating Qi, Supporting Digestion, and Harmonizing the Middle

Introduction

Aged Tangerine Pith, commonly referred to as Chen Pi Bai (陈皮白) in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) food therapy, is traditionally used to gently regulate Qi, support digestion, and harmonize the Spleen and Stomach. Mild in nature with a subtle bitter-sweet taste, it is valued for easing digestive discomfort, supporting appetite, and moderating the stronger effects of aged Tangerine Peel.

What Is Aged Tangerine Pith (Chen Pi Bai)?

Aged Tangerine Pith is the white inner layer of the aged tangerine peel, separated from the outer orange peel (Chen Pi). While the outer peel is more aromatic and pungent, the pith is milder and softer in action. In TCM, Chen Pi Bai is understood to assist Qi movement gently, support digestion, and reduce excessive dryness or stimulation from stronger warming ingredients. Aging enhances its harmonizing properties and digestibility.

Health Benefits of Aged Tangerine Pith (Chen Pi Bai)

Supports Digestion Gently
Aged Tangerine Pith helps regulate the Spleen and Stomach without being overly stimulating, making it suitable for sensitive digestion, mild bloating, or poor appetite.

Regulates Qi Without Excess Dryness
Its mild bitter-sweet nature assists Qi movement while being gentler than full Chen Pi, helping relieve digestive discomfort or fullness.

Harmonizes the Middle Jiao
Traditionally used to balance digestive function, especially when combined with other food-therapy ingredients to soften harsh or drying effects.

How to Use Aged Tangerine Pith (Chen Pi Bai)

As a Food Therapy
Simmered in soups, congee, or herbal broths to gently support digestion and Qi regulation.

As a Digestive Support Ingredient
Used in small amounts alongside richer foods to reduce heaviness and improve digestibility.

In Traditional Preparations
Often combined with ingredients such as red dates, ginger, or aged Tangerine Peel to create balanced, gentle formulations.

Where to Buy Aged Tangerine Pith
You can find Aged Tangerine Pith at traditional Chinese herbal shops, Asian grocery stores, and specialty online herbal retailers.

Look for naturally aged material with a clean, mild citrus aroma, pale white to light yellow color, and no mold or musty smell.

Are There Any Side Effects?

Aged Tangerine Pith is generally safe when consumed in moderate amounts as food. Excessive intake is rarely an issue, but those with significant Qi deficiency or Cold digestion should combine it with warming foods.

Conclusion

Aged Tangerine Pith (Chen Pi Bai) is a gentle TCM food therapy ingredient used to regulate Qi, support digestion, and harmonize the Middle Jiao, offering a softer alternative to aged Tangerine Peel.

FAQs

Is Aged Tangerine Pith toxic?
No, it is non-toxic and traditionally consumed as a food-herb when properly prepared.

Can Aged Tangerine Pith be used daily?
Yes, it can be used regularly in small amounts, especially for gentle digestive support.

Is Aged Tangerine Pith warming or cooling?
It is mildly warm to neutral, with a gentle, harmonizing effect rather than strong stimulation.