Qing Pi (Citri Reticulatae Pericarpium Viride) in TCM

Research shows that Qing pi (Citri Reticulatae Pericarpium Viride) might have potential benefits like fighting cancer, reducing inflammation, and improving gut health. But most of the evidence comes from lab studies, and there’s not much clinical proof yet.
It’s traditionally been used to help balance energy flow, relieve pain, and treat digestion issues, but it’s rarely used in Western medicine.
Taking high doses could pose a risk of cell damage, and more research is needed to understand its safety and side effects.

If you’ve ever explored Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), you might have come across Qing Pi—a fascinating herb with a rich history. Known scientifically as Citri Reticulatae Pericarpium Viride, Qing Pi is the dried peel of the immature fruit of the tangerine plant (Citrus reticulata Blanco). For centuries, TCM practitioners have turned to this bitter, pungent herb to ease pain, soothe digestion, and balance the body’s vital energy, or Qi.

But what does modern science say about it? And how can you use it safely? In this article, we’ll break down everything you need to know about Qing Pi, from its traditional uses to its potential benefits and risks.

Table of Contents

What Is Qing Pi?

Qing Pi, sometimes called immature tangerine peel or 青皮 in Chinese, comes from the unripe fruit of the tangerine plant. Unlike its cousin Chen Pi, which is made from mature tangerine peels, Qing Pi is harvested between May and August when the fruit is still green and small¹. It’s then dried into two forms²:

Ge Qing Pi: Small, spherical peels with a gray-green or black-green surface.
Si Hua Qing Pi: Larger peels cut into four petal-like sections, with a gray-green exterior and a white interior.

In TCM, Qing Pi is prized for its warm, bitter, and pungent nature. It’s said to influence the liver, gallbladder, and stomach meridians—channels in the body believed to regulate energy and health. Traditionally, it’s used to “break up” stagnant Qi, relieve pain, and tackle digestive woes³. Think of it like a natural reset button for when your body feels stuck or out of balance.

Traditional Uses in Chinese Medicine

In TCM, Qing Pi is a go-to herb for conditions tied to stagnant Qi—the kind of energy blockages that might leave you feeling tense, bloated, or achy. Here’s how it’s typically used:

Relieving Pain: This kind of peel is thought to smooth out Qi flow in the liver and stomach, easing discomfort in the chest, ribs, or abdomen. It’s often prescribed for hernia pain, breast tenderness, or even menstrual cramps caused by emotional stress⁴.
Boosting Digestion: If you’ve ever felt bloated after a big meal, It might sound familiar. It’s used to break down food stagnation, reducing abdominal fullness and discomfort⁵.
Supporting Breast and Hernia Health: TCM practitioners rely on Qing Pi for issues like mastitis (breast inflammation), breast lumps, or hernia-related pain⁶.

For example, Qing Pi might be paired with herbs like Chai Hu (Bupleurum) to calm an overactive liver⁷ or with Gua Lou (Trichosanthes) to ease breast swelling⁸. It’s all about teamwork in TCM—herbs working together to restore harmony.

What Does Science Say?

While Qing Pi has deep roots in TCM, modern research is starting to uncover why it might work. Here are some promising findings:

Anti-Cancer Properties: A 2005 study showed that this kind of peel extract triggered cell death in human colon cancer cells. It activated proteins like Bax and caspase-3, hinting at a low-cost, low-toxicity option for cancer research. Still, this is early lab work—human studies are needed.
Anti-Inflammatory Effects: Research from the Journal of Korean Medicine for Obesity Research found that Qing Pi reduced inflammation in nerve cells by blocking pathways like JNK and NF-κB. This could mean relief for conditions tied to inflammation, though more evidence is key.
Brain Health Boost: A 2022 study tested a supplement with Qing Pi (as immature ponkan powder) and perilla seed oil. After a year, older adults showed better memory, attention, and language skills—plus higher levels of BDNF, a brain-supporting protein.

Qing Pi also contains flavonoids like hesperidin and nobiletin, which are studied for their antioxidant and heart-healthy perks⁹. While these results are exciting, they’re just the beginning—larger clinical trials will tell us more.

How Is Qing Pi Used?

In TCM, Qing Pi is versatile. Here’s how it’s typically prepared¹⁰:

Decoction: Boil 3-10 grams of Qing Pi with water (and often other herbs) to make a tea. This is the most common method.
Powder or Pills: Grind it into a powder or mix it into pills for easier use.
Vinegar-Processed (Vinegar Qing Pi): Soaking Qing Pi in vinegar boosts its pain-relieving power and tones down its intensity.

For digestion issues, it might be combined with hawthorn or malt. For breast pain, it could join forces with tangerine leaf or dandelion. The exact recipe depends on your symptoms—and a TCM expert’s guidance.

Outside of TCM, Qing Pi isn’t a staple in Western medicine, but its compounds (like hesperidin) pop up in studies on inflammation and heart health.

Risks and Side Effects

Qing Pi is generally safe when used correctly, but it’s not without risks:

High Doses Can Harm: That same 2005 study on cancer cells noted that too much Qing Pi extract lowered cell health. Overdoing it might stress your system.
Limited Safety Data: There’s not much research on long-term use, especially in humans. The Natural Health Products Database flags caution for pregnant or nursing folks.
Allergies: Though rare, some might react to Qing Pi, as with any herb¹¹.

Because it’s “strong” in TCM terms—meaning it forcefully moves Qi—it’s not ideal if you’re already weak or dehydrated. Always check with a pro before diving in.

How to Use it Safely

Want to try Qing Pi? Here’s how to keep it safe and effective¹² ¹³:

Talk to an Expert: A TCM practitioner or doctor can tailor it to your needs.
Stick to the Dose: Usually 3-10 grams daily—don’t push it beyond that.
Watch for Reactions: Stop if you feel off, like stomach upset or rash.
Skip It If Pregnant: Without solid safety data, avoid it during pregnancy or breastfeeding unless a doctor says otherwise.

Store it in a cool, dry place, and never share your stash—herbs are personal!

Qing Pi vs. Chen Pi: What’s the Difference?

They both come from tangerine peels, but they’re not twins. Qing Pi, the immature peel, is bolder—great for busting up serious Qi jams and pain. Chen Pi, from ripe peels, is milder, perfect for gentle digestion support and clearing phlegm. Think of it as a power tool and Chen Pi as a soft nudge.

Read more: Dried Tangerine Peel (Chen Pi) in TCM: Benefits, Risks, and More

Food and Folklore

In China, Qing Pi isn’t just medicine—it’s a cultural gem. It’s listed as a “food and drug” substance by the National Health Commission, meaning it’s safe in small amounts for cooking. Picture it in a soothing tea or a herbal dish to ease a tense tummy. Ancient texts like Ben Cao Tu Jing praise it for breaking down “accumulations” and calming the chest—wisdom that’s lasted centuries¹⁴.

FAQs

Q: Can Qing Pi help with weight loss?
A: There’s no solid evidence linking Qing Pi to weight loss. It’s more about digestion and pain relief. Ask your doctor for tailored advice.

Q: Is Qing Pi safe for kids?
A: We don’t know enough yet—studies haven’t focused on children. Only use it under a doctor’s watch.

Q: How do I spot good-quality Qing Pi?
A: Look for dark green, firm peels with a strong aroma. For Si Hua Qing Pi, a white interior and rich scent are signs of quality.

The Bottom Line

Qing Pi (Citri Reticulatae Pericarpium Viride) is a standout in TCM, celebrated for moving Qi, easing pain, and settling stomachs. Early research hints at benefits like fighting inflammation or even cancer cells, but it’s not a magic bullet—more studies are needed. If you’re curious about this immature tangerine peel, start with a chat with a healthcare pro. Used wisely, Qing Pi might just be the natural boost your body’s been craving.