Chen Pi (Pericarpium Citri Reticulatae) is the aged peel of the small arbor Citrus reticulata Blanco of family Rutaceae (Tangerine). The fruit is collected in the autumn when ripe, and the peel is removed and dried. No further processing is applied.
Category: Qi Regulating.
Common Name: Aged Tangerine Peel.
Channels Entered: Lung, Spleen and Stomach.
Properties and Functions: Chen Pi is pungent (aromatic) and bitter in flavour, and warm in nature. It regulates and promotes flow of Qi, stops vomiting, dries dampness, dissolves phlegm and helps to prevent stagnation caused tonifying herbs in formulas.
Indications: It is used clinically for:
- Qi stagnation of the Spleen and Stomach manifesting with epigastric/abdominal distension with fullness, bloating, belching, nausea and vomiting.
- Cough due to Phlegm-Damp or Phlegm-Cold with stifling sensation in the chest, copious thick sputum, loss of appetite, fatigue and loose stool.
- Used in formulas with tonifying herbs to control their cloying nature and prevent further stagnation.
Dosage: 3 – 9g
Cautions and Contra-Indications: Unsuitable for use in cases of Heat due to excess or for dry cough due to Qi or Yin deficiency. Long term use can injure Yuan Qi.