SAFE
Chen Pi
Citrus reticulata peel (Tangerine peel/Chen Pi)
Likely Safe
V1 Verified
TCM Herbs
PubMed Studies
2,200
About
Chen Pi (aged tangerine peel) contains hesperidin, nobiletin, and tangeretin. Used for digestive qi stagnation, phlegm, nausea, and cough. One of the most widely used TCM herbs.
How it works (mechanism of action)
Polymethoxylated flavones (nobiletin, tangeretin) inhibit PDE4 elevating cAMP in smooth muscle for bronchodilation. Hesperidin activates AMPK for lipid-lowering effects. Essential oils stimulate digestive enzyme secretion via CCK release from duodenal I-cells.
📊 Effectiveness
Digestive support and phlegm
Evidence Grade B · 14 studies · n=2,200
Evidence grades: A=Strong RCT evidence · B=Good clinical trials · C=Limited trials · D=Preliminary/traditional
👥 Safety by Population
🚫 Contraindications & Warnings
Generally very safe at food doses. Blood pressure interaction. Blood sugar-lowering.
🏷️ Other Names
Citrus reticulata peel (Tangerine peel/Chen Pi)