Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 1

Tangerine (Citrus reticulata) has a longstanding presence in traditional medicine, particularly within Chinese herbal medicine, where its dried peel (known as "Chen Pi") is commonly used. In traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), tangerine peel is prescribed to regulate qi, resolve phlegm, and support digestion and respiratory health. TCM practitioners have historically used Chen Pi to alleviate coughs and congestion, symptoms that often accompany respiratory infections like influenza. However, the use of tangerine or its peel in treating influenza specifically is based more on general symptom management rather than on targeting the influenza virus itself.

Scientific research on tangerine’s direct effects against influenza is limited. While tangerines contain vitamin C and antioxidants, which may help support general immune function, there is insufficient clinical evidence to confirm any direct antiviral activity against the influenza virus. Some in vitro studies have shown mild antiviral effects for certain citrus flavonoids, but these findings have not yet translated into robust, clinically validated treatments for influenza. Thus, the use of tangerine for influenza is primarily justified by traditional practices, with minimal scientific validation at this time.

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