The practice of using citrus peels, known as chenpi, in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) has a rich history spanning 700 years. Chenpi is highly regarded in TCM for its ability to fortify the spleen, eliminate dampness, improve abdominal distension, enhance digestion, and reduce phlegm.
Situated in the Xinhui District of Jiangmen City in Guangdong Province, the historic Tianma Village boasts an optimal climate for cultivating mandarin oranges. The unique local conditions nurture plump mandarins with a distinctive fragrance. Unlike other varieties prized for their juicy pulp, the mandarins from Tianma are celebrated for their sweet peels, which have been popular across the country since the Song Dynasty (960-1279).
In recognition of its cultural significance, the processing technique of Xinhui dried orange peel was honored in 2021 by being included in the fifth representative list of state-level intangible cultural heritage items.
Reference(s):
Where Nature Meets Culture: From fruit peel to medicinal ingredient
cgtn.com
