Chen Pi – Aged Tangerine Peel – Pericarpium Citri Reticulatae

Chen Pi, the dried aged peel of the tangerine or mandarin orange, is a key herb in Traditional Chinese Medicine used to regulate Qi, harmonize the middle burner, and transform phlegm. It is one of the most commonly used herbs for digestive disorders involving bloating, fullness, belching, and nausea. In addition to promoting digestion, Chen Pi is also known for its ability to dry dampness and transform phlegm, making it useful in treating respiratory conditions with cough and congestion.
Functions & Benefits
Regulates Qi and Harmonizes the Middle JiaoChen Pi moves stagnant Qi in the Spleen and Stomach, relieving symptoms such as bloating, poor appetite, belching, and nausea. It is particularly useful when Qi stagnation is combined with dampness.
Dries Dampness and Transforms PhlegmIt helps dry internal dampness and resolve phlegm, especially in the Lungs, where it is used to treat cough with copious sputum or chest congestion.
Supports Spleen FunctionAs a gentle tonic, Chen Pi supports Spleen Qi and enhances digestion when used in balanced formulas, making it ideal for people with digestive weakness.
IndicationsChen Pi is frequently used for symptoms such as abdominal bloating, gas, belching, nausea, and indigestion. It is also beneficial for cough with phlegm, chest tightness, and poor appetite due to dampness or Qi stagnation. Individuals with a tendency toward digestive sluggishness and respiratory damp-phlegm conditions can benefit from its warming, drying effects.
Tongue & Pulse Diagnosis in TCMThe tongue is often pale or normal in color with a white, greasy coating, indicating dampness and Qi stagnation. The pulse is typically wiry or slippery, reflecting internal obstruction by damp or phlegm.
Common TCM Patterns Treated by Chen PiChen Pi is used to treat Qi stagnation in the Spleen and Stomach, which presents with symptoms like distension, pain, and loss of appetite. It is also used in phlegm-damp obstruction in the Lungs, manifesting as cough with sputum, chest congestion, and wheezing. When combined with Qi-tonifying and damp-resolving herbs, it strengthens digestion and prevents the buildup of phlegm.
Precautions & ContraindicationsChen Pi should be used with caution in cases of dry cough, Yin deficiency, or heat in the Lungs, as its drying nature may aggravate dryness. Overuse may deplete Qi and harm digestion. It should not be taken in large amounts over extended periods without proper guidance.
ConclusionChen Pi is a warming, aromatic herb used in TCM to regulate Qi, dry dampness, and resolve phlegm. It plays a central role in treating digestive stagnation and respiratory phlegm disorders, particularly in individuals with underlying Spleen Qi deficiency or damp accumulation. Its balanced action makes it a foundational herb in many classical and modern formulas.