Green Tangerine Peel

Green Tangerine Peel (Qing Pi): A Liver-Regulating Herb for Qi Stagnation, Bloating, and Masses

Introduction

Green Tangerine Peel, known as Qing Pi (青皮) in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), is a potent herb used to soothe Liver qi, break up stagnation, and disperse accumulations. More intense and drying than its mature counterpart (Chen Pi), Qing Pi is especially useful for addressing sharp side pain, emotional constraint, and digestive discomfort caused by qi obstruction. It is often included in formulas for PMS, indigestion, and masses caused by phlegm or blood stasis.

What Is Green Tangerine Peel?

Qing Pi is the unripe peel of the Citrus reticulata (tangerine), typically harvested while the fruit is still green. In TCM, it is classified as bitter, acrid, and warm, and it enters the Liver and Gallbladder meridians. Traditionally, it is used to regulate qi, break up clumps, and dry dampness. Compared to the mature tangerine peel (Chen Pi), Qing Pi is stronger in action and more focused on resolving Liver-related qi constraint.

Health Benefits of Green Tangerine Peel

Spreads Liver Qi and Relieves Stagnation
Used for rib-side pain, emotional tension, and breast tenderness linked to constrained Liver qi.

Breaks Up Qi Accumulations and Dissolves Masses
Helpful for abdominal masses, nodules, or hernia-like swelling caused by qi and phlegm stagnation.

Regulates Digestion and Eases Indigestion
Used in cases of bloating, gas, poor appetite, and fullness in the epigastrium.

Clears Dampness and Promotes Flow
Effective in formulas for sluggish digestion and internal damp obstruction.

Alleviates PMS and Hormonal Discomfort
Supports hormonal balance by promoting smooth Liver qi movement and reducing tension.

How to Use Green Tangerine Peel

In Decoctions for Qi Regulation
Use 3–9 grams with herbs like Xiang Fu, Chuan Lian Zi, or Dang Gui. Simmer for 20–30 minutes.

In Formulas for Digestive or Liver Disorders
Often found in blends such as Yue Ju Wan for emotional and digestive stagnation.

In Herbal Teas for Liver Support
Steep with rose buds or licorice root for a mildly bitter and qi-soothing tea.

Where to Buy Green Tangerine Peel

You can find Qing Pi at the following places:

• Chinese herbal medicine shops
• TCM dispensaries and natural health stores
• Online retailers such as Amazon, iHerb, or specialty Chinese herb websites

Look for:

• Thin, green to dark olive peel strips with a strong citrus aroma
• Dry, non-moldy, pesticide-free slices
• Wildcrafted or organically sourced options preferred

Are There Any Side Effects?

Green Tangerine Peel is more aggressive than Chen Pi and can be overly drying or dispersing if used long-term. It may irritate digestion in those with Spleen qi deficiency or dryness. It should be avoided during pregnancy unless part of a balanced formula and professionally prescribed.

Conclusion

Green Tangerine Peel, or Qing Pi, is a strong Liver-regulating herb in TCM that soothes qi stagnation, dissolves masses, and improves digestion. Best suited for sharp pain, emotional constraint, or digestive clumping, it remains an essential tool for restoring smooth qi flow and clearing obstruction from the body’s core systems.

FAQs

Can I take Green Tangerine Peel every day?
Only short-term or as part of a qi-regulating formula under professional guidance.

What does Green Tangerine Peel taste like?
It has a bitter, slightly acrid taste with a citrusy sharpness.

Is Green Tangerine Peel safe for children?
Not typically used for children unless prescribed for specific qi stagnation patterns under supervision.