Da Fu Pi (Pericarpium Arecae) is the peel from the ripened seed of Areca catechu L. It is mainly produced in Hainan, Yunan and Fujian. After the seed is removed, the husks are dried and used in this unprocessed form.

Category: Qi Regulating.

Common Name: Areca Husk; Areca Peel; Betel Nut Husk.

Channels Enetered: Spleen, Stomach, Small Intestine, Large Intestine.

Properties and Functions: Da Fu Pi is pungent or spicy in flavour and slightly warm in nature. It regulates and descends Qi, harmonises the middle jiao, promotes urination and reduces oedema.

Indications: Clinically it is used to treat epigastric and abdominal distension, indigestion, belching and acid relux. It can also be used for oedema, fluid retention in the legs and feet, and food stangation.

Dosage: 4 – 9g

Cautions and Contra-Indications: Must be used with caution during pregnancy. Contraindicated in cases of Qi deficiency.