In my outpatient routine, I often remind patients that many daily discomforts can be alleviated with simple TCM conditioning. In particular, tangerine peel, a seemingly ordinary Chinese herbal medicine, if used in the right way, can not only improve physical health, but also reduce the need to run to the hospital. Today, I would like to share with you some practical tips for pairing tangerine peel to help you manage common minor ailments and pains at home.
Let me tell you a true story about the experience of one of my patients, Mr. Lee. Mr. Li is a middle-aged man who often suffers from indigestion and fatigue due to high work pressure. He tried a variety of methods, including Western medicine and various health supplements, but none of them worked very well. By chance, I recommended tangerine peel to him in combination with some other Chinese herbal medicines. After a period of perseverance, Mr. Li's digestive function has improved significantly, and his whole person has become more energetic. He was pleasantly surprised to find that this method was not only effective, but also simple and natural, with few side effects.
Pairing 1: The combination of tangerine peel and ginger
In TCM theory, tangerine peel and ginger are both commonly used herbs to regulate stomach qi and improve digestion. This combination is especially suitable for those who often feel bloated and have indigestion.
How to use:
Ingredients: Take 5 grams of dried tangerine peel and 3 slices of fresh ginger.
Cooking method: Put tangerine peel and ginger slices together in a kettle and add 500ml of water.
Cooking time: Bring to a boil over medium-low heat, then reduce the heat to low and continue to cook for 10 minutes.
Drinking method: Strain out the herbs and use the decoction water as tea, and drink it warm after a meal for the best effect.
Efficacy:
Regulates the stomach and intestines: Tangerine peel helps to promote gastrointestinal peristalsis and improve symptoms such as stomach pain and flatulence caused by qi stagnation.
Warmth and coldness: The warmth of ginger can dispel the cold in the body, especially in the cold season, which helps to warm the stomach and dispel cold.
Suitable for:
People who often feel upset and bloating in the stomach.
People who work or live in a cold environment, feel cold hands and feet, and have heavy cold in their bodies.
Pairing 2: The golden partner of tangerine peel and honey
The combination of tangerine peel and honey is a traditional home remedy for cough and throat discomfort, especially for those with sore throats or coughs caused by dryness or colds.
How to use:
Ingredients: Take 5 grams of dried tangerine peel and an appropriate amount of natural honey.
Cooking method: Put the tangerine peel in a small pot and add 250ml of water.
Decoction time: After boiling on high heat, reduce the heat and continue to cook for 15 minutes.
Honey blending: Cool the boiled tangerine peel water slightly until warm, add one to two spoonfuls of honey and stir well.
Efficacy:
Moisturizing the throat and relieving cough: Tangerine peel has the effect of dredging lung qi and can help relieve cough, while honey has a throat moisturizing effect and can relieve throat pain and discomfort.
Boosts immunity: Honey is rich in natural sugars and trace elements, which help to strengthen physical fitness and improve immunity.
Suitable for:
People who often have a cough, itchy or aching throat.
People who are prone to colds when the seasons change, have a weak constitution and need to strengthen their immunity.
Match 3: Boiled porridge with tangerine peel
Cooking porridge with tangerine peel is a popular traditional practice, especially for those who need to gently regulate the stomach and intestines. This pairing not only enhances the flavor of the porridge, but also brings a variety of health benefits.
How to use:
Ingredients: Take 5 grams of dried tangerine peel and 100 grams of japonica rice.
Prepare the porridge base: Wash the japonica rice and chop the tangerine peel slightly.
Cooking method: Put the japonica rice and tangerine peel together in a pot and add 1000ml of water.
Cooking time: Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low and simmer until the rice grains are well cooked and the porridge becomes dense.
Efficacy:
Strengthen the spleen and stomach: Japonica rice itself is easy to digest, and adding tangerine peel can help regulate stomach qi and promote digestion, which is suitable for people with weak gastrointestinal function.
Harmonize the body: The aroma of tangerine peel uplifts the mind and improves appetite, while also helping to relieve bloating and discomfort caused by qi stagnation.
Suitable for:
People with poor gastrointestinal function and need gentle conditioning.
People who have poor digestion of heavy foods and need a light diet.
Tangerine peel porridge is an ideal dietary formula that can both treat and prevent gastrointestinal diseases, and is suitable for long-term consumption. The simple materials and uncomplicated production process make it a healthy and quick choice for busy lives.