Green Tangerine Peel

Green Tangerine Peel (Qing Pi): A Warm, Bitter-Acrid Herb for Spreading Liver Qi, Breaking Qi Stagnation, and Dissolving Clumps

Introduction

Green Tangerine Peel, known as Qing Pi (青皮) in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), is traditionally used to spread Liver Qi, break up Qi stagnation, and dissipate clumps. Warm in temperature and bitter-acrid in nature, it is valued for addressing constrained Qi patterns, particularly those involving the Liver and Gallbladder.

What Is Green Tangerine Peel (Qing Pi)?

Green Tangerine Peel is the unripe peel of the tangerine (Citrus reticulata). In TCM, it is considered more forceful than aged tangerine peel (Chen Pi), with a stronger action of breaking stagnant Qi and dispersing accumulations. It is especially used when Qi stagnation has led to distension, pain, or palpable masses.

Health Benefits of Green Tangerine Peel (Qing Pi)

Spreads Liver Qi
Traditionally used for Liver Qi constraint manifesting as chest or flank distension, emotional constraint, irritability, or digestive discomfort related to stress.

Breaks Qi Stagnation
Helps move severely constrained Qi, making it useful for abdominal fullness, pain, or firmness due to Qi blockage.

Dissolves Clumps and Masses
Commonly used in cases of palpable lumps or nodules, such as breast distension, hernias, or testicular swelling related to Qi stagnation.

Supports Digestive Movement
Promotes the movement of Qi in the middle burner, aiding digestion when stagnation interferes with appetite or bowel regularity.

How to Use Green Tangerine Peel (Qing Pi)

As a Herbal Decoction
Typically decocted with herbs that regulate Qi such as Bupleurum Root (Chai Hu), Cyperus Rhizome (Xiang Fu), or Tangerine Peel (Chen Pi), depending on the presentation.

In Traditional Formulas
Included in classical formulas designed to course the Liver, regulate Qi, and resolve stagnation-related pain or masses.

Processed or Vinegar-Fried Form
Sometimes vinegar-processed to enhance its Liver-directed and Qi-moving actions.

Where to Buy Green Tangerine Peel (Qing Pi)

You can find Green Tangerine Peel at:

• Traditional Chinese medicine shops
• Asian herbal markets
• Licensed online TCM suppliers

Look for:

• Dark green to green-brown dried peel
• Strong, aromatic citrus scent
• Clean, well-dried pieces without mold
• Clear labeling indicating green tangerine peel (Qing Pi)

Are There Any Side Effects?

Green Tangerine Peel is generally safe when used appropriately. Due to its strong Qi-breaking nature, excessive or improper use may damage Qi or Yin and is not suitable for those with Qi deficiency without stagnation.

Conclusion

Green Tangerine Peel (Qing Pi) is a potent TCM herb valued for spreading Liver Qi, breaking stagnation, dissolving clumps, and restoring healthy Qi movement.

FAQs

Is Green Tangerine Peel toxic?
No, Green Tangerine Peel is not considered toxic when properly prepared and used at appropriate doses.

Can Green Tangerine Peel be used daily?
It is typically used short-term or within formulas rather than taken continuously on its own.

Is Green Tangerine Peel warming or cooling?
It is warm, making it especially suitable for Qi stagnation patterns with cold or constrained presentations.