Herbal Monographs

The oldest reference to oranges appeared in the second book of The Five Classics in China in 500 BCE. (11) Approximately 2,000 years ago, the uses of citrus peels (zhu pi) were first mentioned in the Shen Nong Ben Cao Jing. In 1178 CE, a monograph describing the uses of citruses was published in China. (12) Dried bitter and sweet orange peels were used as carminatives for dyspepsia and to improve the appetite. They continue to be used in Traditional Chinese Medicine to reduce phlegm related to coughs, colds, or flu, to strengthen the spleen, and regulate energy. They are also administered to treat vomiting, diarrhea, blood in feces, and uterine or rectal prolapse. (13)