Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 3

Chen pi (dried tangerine peel) is a commonly used herb in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), especially for conditions associated with "dampness" and cough. Its use is primarily justified by centuries of traditional practice rather than robust scientific validation. According to TCM theory, chen pi is believed to regulate qi (vital energy), dry dampness, and transform phlegm. These properties make it a frequent ingredient in herbal formulas targeting coughs associated with phlegm-damp accumulation—characterized by symptoms such as a productive cough, chest congestion, and a sensation of heaviness.

Historical texts, such as the Ben Cao Gang Mu and Shennong Bencao Jing, document chen pi’s use for digestive and respiratory complaints including cough. Contemporary TCM practitioners still prescribe it for cases where cough is accompanied by signs of excess phlegm and dampness, often in combination with other herbs like ban xia (Pinellia) and fu ling (Poria).

Scientific studies on chen pi's efficacy for cough are limited. Some pharmacological research has explored its anti-inflammatory and expectorant properties, but findings are preliminary and often based on animal or in vitro models rather than clinical trials. Thus, while traditional use is well-established and some modern research is suggestive, high-quality scientific evidence remains lacking. Overall, chen pi’s use for cough (damp) is justified by strong traditional precedent, with moderate supporting evidence from early pharmacological studies.

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