Aged Tangerine Peel

진피 (橘皮) · Citrus reticulata Blanco

Qi-regulating herb Warm Bitter, pungent Spleen, Lung

NatureWarm

TasteBitter, pungent

MeridiansSpleen, Lung

Part usedDried, aged peel of the ripe fruit

FamilyRutaceae

CategoryQi-regulating herb

Find by concern: Indigestion Poor appetite Nausea Cough

Overview

Tangerine peel is a kitchen-cabinet remedy for stuck qi and phlegm, and the Donguibogam records that Korea's own supply came from Jeju island. The longer the peel is aged, the more prized it becomes — fresh peel is called 'red peel,' while the aged form is 'chen pi,' aged peel, the name still used today.

In the Donguibogam

東醫
寶鑑

性溫, 味苦辛, 無毒. 能治胸膈間氣, 開胃止痢, 消痰涎.

Source: Donguibogam, Tangaek-pyeon (Herbology volume)

TranslationIts nature is warm, its taste bitter and pungent, and it is non-toxic. It treats qi stagnation in the chest and diaphragm, opens the appetite and stops dysentery, and resolves phlegm.

Traditional functions

Regulates qi, relieves stagnation
Dries dampness, resolves phlegm
Strengthens the spleen and stomach
Stops nausea

Traditional applications

Bloating and chest tightness
Cough with phlegm
Poor appetite
Nausea

Traditional preparation

Decoction 4–12g; the core of Yijin-tang (Two-Cured Decoction) with poria and licorice, and part of Yukgunja-tang.

Cautions

Caution: Warming and drying; traditionally used cautiously in dry cough from yin-deficiency or heat-excess patterns without dampness. Consult a professional before use.

Frequently asked questions

Why does the Donguibogam mention Jeju island?

The text notes that among Korean regions, only Jeju produced citrus fruit — reflecting the island's uniquely warm climate, which remains true today as Korea's main citrus-growing region.

What is the difference between fresh and aged peel?

Freshly dried peel is called 'red peel' and is considered stronger and more dispersing; peel aged for years becomes 'chen pi' (aged peel), valued as milder and better for long-term digestive support — the origin of the herb's common name.

Sources

동의보감 탕액편 (원문) — 한문 원문 발췌 — 한의학고전DB 탕액편 대조 검증 완료 (DATA-001)
한의학고전DB (mediclassics.kr) — 국역 참조 후 자체 재서술 (LEGAL-001)

DonguiHub is an educational and informational platform about the history and tradition of Korean medicine. It does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional about health conditions and before using any herb.