Orange Peel Tea

For Cough and Congestion

Citrus peel (and pith) have long been used to clear phlegm and mucus from the body especially the Lungs and the head in Chinese Medicine. Orange peel is one of the easiest kitchen remedies for phlegmy coughs and congestion. Add a single piece into your teas regularly to keep congestion to a minimum or drink a strong decoction when you are fighting a cough or cold or experiencing lots of congestion. To make a stronger decoction add the peel of one orange (fresh or dried) to 2 cups of water, simmer and reduce to 1 cup of water. Add a drop of honey if you like. It’s sour and bitter flavour helps loosen and release phlegmy coughs and congestion. Read on to find out how to dry the peel and make your own chen pi (aged orange peel).

The difference between Dried and Fresh Peel in Chinese Medicine

Dried orange peel and fresh orange peel have slightly different actions in Chinese Medicine. Fresh peel moves the Qi more strongly and dried peel harmonizes supporting the Lungs and spleen.

Fresh orange peel (青皮 qing pi):

• Stronger, more “moving.”

• Targets the Liver and digestion.

• Can be harsh ,not usually used for kids or delicate people.

• Aged dried orange peel (陈皮 chen pi):

  • Gentler, warming, aromatic.

  • Targets the Lungs and Spleen.

  • Transforms phlegm, supports digestion, eases cough.

  • The longer it’s aged, the more mellow and effective it becomes.

How to Dry Orange Peel at Home

Drying orange peel is a simple way to make your own chen pi (aged orange peel) for teas, soups, and natural remedies. Here’s how:

1. CHOOSE YOUR ORANGES

• Go for organic oranges if possible (to avoid wax/pesticides).

• Wash well and pat dry.

2. PEEL CAREFULLY

• Use a knife or peeler to remove the skin.

• Try to keep mostly the orange zest — a little white pith is fine, but too much can taste bitter.

3. CUT INTO STRIPS

• Slice into thin strips for quicker drying.

4. DRY IN PIECES

• Air-dry: Spread peels on a tray or rack in a warm, dry spot (like near a radiator or sunny window). Turn daily. Takes 1–2 weeks.

• Oven-dry: Place on baking paper, oven at 50–60°C with door slightly open. Takes 2–3 hours.

• Dehydrator: 6–12 hours depending on thickness.

5. CHECK THEY ARE READY

• The peel should be brittle and snap easily, not bendy or damp.

6. STORAGE

• Keep in an airtight jar in a cool, dry cupboard.

• Label with the date (chen pi actually gets better with age!)