Tangerine Peel: Health Benefits and Who Should Avoid It

January 2, 2024

We all know that tangerine peel is a type of traditional Chinese medicine with health benefits. Due to its convenience and affordable price, many people like to buy some and soak it in water at home. However, I want to tell you that although tangerine peel has good health benefits, it is not suitable for everyone. If consumed improperly, it can have serious effects.


1. Not suitable for people with weak constitution or excessive internal heat

According to traditional Chinese medicine, tangerines have a warm property, and excessive consumption can lead to symptoms such as mouth ulcers, dry mouth and throat, and constipation. Although tangerine peel is widely used and can be consumed by most people, it is best for people with weak constitution, severe internal heat, dry cough without phlegm, or symptoms of vomiting blood to avoid consuming it. In addition, those who sweat excessively should also try to use it less or not at all.

2. Not recommended for people with excessive stomach acid

The main effect of tangerine peel is to invigorate the spleen, regulate qi, and resolve phlegm. It mainly targets symptoms such as stomach pain or indigestion. However, tangerine peel has a drying and dampness-removing effect. It is best for patients with symptoms of stomach fire, qi deficiency, or dry cough to avoid excessive consumption to prevent worsening of their conditions.

3. Avoid using tangerine peel while taking medication

Experts tell us that tangerine peel has a certain impact on drug enzymes. Therefore, patients who are currently taking medication and want to drink tangerine peel water should consult their doctor beforehand to avoid affecting the efficacy of the medication or causing adverse effects on the body.


4. Pregnant women should be cautious when consuming tangerine peel

Due to the good digestive and phlegm-resolving effects of tangerine peel, it has a good effect on patients with cough with excessive phlegm, nausea, abdominal distension, or poor appetite. However, if pregnant women have a constitution of qi deficiency and dryness, or have symptoms of yin deficiency and dry cough, accompanied by excessive heat and vomiting blood, it is recommended that they avoid consuming tangerine peel to prevent any negative effects on themselves and the fetus.

5. Avoid drinking water with fresh tangerine peel

The tangerine peel used in traditional Chinese medicine is different from the fresh tangerine peel available in the market. The latter is processed and dried to become tangerine peel. Tangerine peel refers to the fruit peel collected when the fruit is ripe in late autumn or early winter, and it is dried in the sun or at low temperatures. The longer it is aged, the better it is, hence the name "tangerine peel". Although tangerine peel is a commonly used traditional Chinese medicine for regulating qi and invigorating the stomach, it is definitely not the same as fresh tangerine peel.

Fresh tangerine peel can irritate the intestines and stomach because its surface may be contaminated with pesticides or preservatives. Even if it is washed with water and sun-dried, harmful substances on the surface cannot be completely removed. Additionally, fresh tangerine peel contains more volatile oils, which can stimulate the digestive tract and disrupt digestion.

Tip: Under normal circumstances, for healthy individuals, consuming tangerine peel water once a week is sufficient. Avoid excessive intake because tangerine peel is a food that can easily cause excessive internal heat. Regular consumption may lead to gastrointestinal discomfort.

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