Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Tangerine (Citrus reticulata) has a long history of use in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), primarily in the form of its dried peel, known as "Chen Pi." In traditional practices, Chen Pi is used to regulate "qi" (vital energy), harmonize the stomach, and relieve symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and indigestion. These uses are documented in classical TCM texts and remain common in herbal formulations prescribed for gastrointestinal complaints. The rationale in TCM is that tangerine peel helps resolve "dampness" and "phlegm," which are believed to contribute to digestive disturbances, including nausea and vomiting.

From a scientific perspective, the evidence supporting tangerine's efficacy for nausea and vomiting is limited. Some in vitro and animal studies suggest that the essential oils and flavonoids found in tangerine peel may have gastroprotective and antiemetic properties, possibly by modulating gastric motility and exerting mild anti-inflammatory effects. However, robust clinical trials in humans are lacking, and tangerine is not widely recognized in Western medicine as a treatment for nausea or vomiting. As a result, the evidence rating is modest, reflecting the strength of traditional use with limited scientific validation.

In summary, tangerine's use for nausea and vomiting is primarily justified by traditional practices, particularly within TCM, with some preliminary but inconclusive scientific data supporting its potential benefit.

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