Dried Mandarin Peel

Dried Mandarin Peel (Chen Pi): A Warming Herb for Digestion, Qi Flow, and Phlegm Resolution

Introduction

Dried mandarin peel, known as Chen Pi (陈皮) in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), is a warming, aromatic herb used to regulate qi, support digestion, and resolve dampness and phlegm. Made from the aged peel of ripe tangerines or mandarin oranges, Chen Pi is a staple in countless herbal formulas. It is especially beneficial for those with bloating, poor appetite, or coughing with excessive phlegm.

What Is Dried Mandarin Peel?

Chen Pi is the sun-dried or aged peel of Citrus reticulata, typically stored for years to enhance its medicinal properties. In TCM, it is classified as bitter, acrid, and warm, and it enters the Lung and Spleen meridians. Traditionally, it is used to regulate qi, harmonize the middle burner, dry dampness, and transform phlegm. Its gentle action on the digestive system and respiratory tract makes it a versatile and widely used remedy.

Health Benefits of Dried Mandarin Peel

Regulates Qi and Relieves Digestive Stagnation
Chen Pi promotes the smooth flow of qi, relieving symptoms like bloating, belching, and nausea from Spleen or Stomach disharmony.

Dries Dampness and Improves Appetite
Its aromatic nature helps transform internal dampness, stimulate appetite, and resolve heaviness in the abdomen.

Transforms Phlegm and Clears Mucus
Chen Pi is used to address cough with profuse sputum, especially from damp-phlegm accumulation in the Lungs.

Supports the Spleen and Harmonizes Formulas
Commonly used to strengthen the Spleen and enhance the effect of other herbs, it is a key harmonizer in digestive and respiratory formulas.

Soothes Nausea and Hiccups
Its warming, anti-spasmodic properties help relieve nausea, vomiting, or hiccups due to qi rebellion or weak digestion.

How to Use Dried Mandarin Peel

In Herbal Decoctions or Teas
Simmer 3–6 grams with herbs like ginger, licorice, or poria for digestive support or phlegm transformation.

In Soups or Congee
Add to porridge or slow-cooked soups to enrich flavor and promote digestion—especially when paired with barley, Chinese yam, or red dates.

As a Culinary and Medicinal Spice
Ground Chen Pi can be used in cooking or baking as a fragrant spice that aids digestion and reduces greasiness.

Where to Buy Dried Mandarin Peel

You can find Chen Pi at the following places:

• Chinese herbal medicine shops

• Asian grocery stores (dried goods or soup herb aisles)

• Online retailers such as Amazon, iHerb, or TCM apothecaries

Look for:

• Dark orange to brown curled strips with a strong citrus aroma

• Aged peels (3+ years preferred for potency)

• Organic, sulfur-free, and pesticide-tested packaging

Are There Any Side Effects?

Chen Pi is very safe when used properly. Because of its warming and drying nature, it may not be suitable for those with yin deficiency or dry cough without phlegm. Long-term or high-dose use should be balanced with moistening herbs if needed. Not recommended during pregnancy in large amounts unless directed by a practitioner.

Conclusion

Dried mandarin peel, or Chen Pi, is a warming, aromatic herb that promotes digestion, relieves bloating, transforms phlegm, and supports qi flow. Whether brewed into teas, added to soups, or blended into formulas, this fragrant citrus peel brings harmony to both the stomach and lungs.

FAQs

Can I use dried mandarin peel every day?
Yes, in small amounts, especially in tea or soup to support digestion and prevent phlegm accumulation.

What does dried mandarin peel taste like?
It has a mildly bitter, warm, citrus flavor with a fragrant aroma that deepens with age.

Is dried mandarin peel safe for children?
Yes, in small amounts and under guidance—especially for digestion or phlegmy coughs.