Qing Pi
Citrus reticulata Blanco
โฏ TCM Properties
Soothes the Liver and Regulates Qi; Resolves Phlegm and Disperses Accumulation; Promotes Digestion and Resolves Food Stagnation; Dries Dampness and Transforms Phlegm
Western Herbalism Properties
Botanical Description
Citrus reticulata Blanco (Rutaceae), the mandarin orange, is a small evergreen tree or large shrub 2-8 m tall with slender often spiny branches, ovate to elliptic single-foliolate leaves with narrowly winged petioles, and fragrant white star-shaped flowers. The depressed-globose fruit has a loose easily-peeled aromatic orange rind and sweet juicy segments. For Qing Pi, the immature green pericarp is collected in summer from young fruits that have dropped or are thinned from the tree, sun-dried, and either left whole or cut into pieces. In TCM, Qing Pi is bitter and acrid in flavor and warm in nature, entering the Liver, Gallbladder, and Stomach channels; it spreads Liver qi, breaks up qi stagnation, dissipates clumps, and reduces food stagnation. The mature peel (Chen Pi) is a separate medicinal.
Dosage
| Form | Amount | Frequency | Duration | Population | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| decoction | 3-9g | Daily | โ | โ | โ |
Cultural & Historical Context
Traditional Chinese Uses
Qing Pi (unripe tangerine peel) is a warm, acrid herb that strongly moves Liver Qi, breaks up accumulations, and reduces food stagnation. It is significantly more aggressive than the mature Chen Pi, and is used when Liver Qi stagnation is substantial โ causing flank pain, hypochondriac distension, and hernial pain โ or when food stagnation with abdominal pain requires forceful dispersal. Its downward-directing, dispersing action also treats masses from Qi and food accumulation. It is used cautiously in those who are deficient or pregnant.
Traditional American Uses
None Documented
Important Disclaimer
This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before using any herbal remedy, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, or taking medications.