Lemon Peel vs Citrus Peel TCM

Aromatic outer rind of lemon used in folk medicine for digestive conditions, antimicrobial properties, and as a source of d-limonene.

The aged dried peel of tangerine, a fundamental TCM herb for regulating Qi, drying dampness, and transforming phlegm. Aged peels (over 10 years) are most prized and most expensive.

d-limonene, eriocitrin, hesperidin, pectin, vitamin C

hesperidin, tangeretin, nobiletin, d-limonene

Digestive conditions in Mediterranean folk medicine, Antimicrobial and antiseptic, Vitamin C source across folk traditions, Liver support in Italian folk medicine

Regulate qi and relieve stagnation, Dry dampness and transform phlegm, Treat digestive distension, Harmonize middle burner formulas

Carminative, Antimicrobial via d-limonene, Antioxidant, Hepatoprotective

Carminative, Expectorant, Anti-inflammatory, Antioxidant

Culinary doses as food; 1-3g dried peel tea; 1000mg d-limonene extract daily

3-9g dried aged peel decoction or 300-500mg extract daily

Drug interactions (similar to grapefruit in some circumstances), Acid reflux with large amounts

Qi deficiency without stagnation, Dry cough without phlegm

GI upset with excessive consumption, Photosensitization with lemon oil topically in sun

GI upset, Dryness if overused