Chen Pi Tangerine Peel Medicinal Grade Chinese Herb 1 Lb. by Plum Dragon Herbs

Tangerine Peel, or Citrus Peel, is in the category of traditional Chinese herbs that regulate Qi. This aromatic herb is considered in TCM to be acrid and bitter in flavor and to exhibit a warming energy. Tangerine Peel is unlike many Chinese Herbs in that the quality of this herb increases the longer it is aged. Our standard Chen Pi is quite old and of excellent quality. As the name implies, dried Tangerine peel is the sun-dried peel of the tangerine citrus fruit. The best and most valued Dried Tangerine Peel is from a region in China called Xinhui (??), as they are more fragrant than peels from other regions. Dried Tangerine Peel is cherished for their distinct bitter and fragrant taste. When dried, the Tangerine Peel becomes brittle. Its exterior side also becomes brown while the pithy side becomes a yellowish beige color. Traditionally, dried Tangerine peels are made by cutting the whole peel into 3 sections and then drying these sections in the sun. Hence, when a recipe calls for a “piece” of dried Tangerine peel, that normally equates to 1/3 of the entire tangerine’s peel. Dried Tangerine peel benefits and uses: Dried Tangerine peel is often used in Chinese soups, stews, desserts, marinades, teas, and even snacks. One popular snack is the soft candied tangerine peel. It has a distinct bitter and sweet taste. In addition to its nice flavor, the candied tangerine peel is thought to help alleviate the symptoms of motion sickness. Hence, the candied tangerine peel is a popular snack in Asia for road trips or boat rides. Chen Pi is also used in TCM for hundreds of years. This fruit peel is known in TCM to have a warming property that supports healthy digestion and optimal lung health. Additionally, the fruit peel is often used in TCM for stimulating blood circulation.