Chen Pi 陈皮 – Time Hidden in Mandarin Peel

Chen Pi 陈皮 – Time Hidden in Mandarin Peel

Chen Pi 陈皮 may at first glance seem like nothing more than ordinary mandarin peel, but in Chinese tradition it is far more than simply dried citrus rind. Once properly processed, it becomes an ingredient that continues to transform with time – its aroma softens, its flavour becomes rounder, and deeper notes of herbs, spices, wood and dried fruit gradually emerge. This is precisely why Chen Pi is so fascinating not only in Chinese cuisine and Traditional Chinese Medicine, but also in the world of tea, where it naturally complements Pu-erh, Liu Bao and other teas suited to long-term ageing.

How to deliciously prepare Job's tears (Yi Yi Ren 薏苡仁)

How to deliciously prepare Job's tears (Yi Yi Ren 薏苡仁)

In China, a decoction of the Job's tears (YiYi Ren 薏苡仁) has always been considered very healing for seriously ill patients. Chinese medicine describes a so-called slime-like soup that reliably works for stomach and intestinal weakness, binds toxins from metabolism and supports liver function. Holistic medicine considers Job's tears to be a food that can soften and emollient, which is why they are said to help release animal fats and hardened deposits of harmful substances from the body, reduce "bad" cholesterol and women in particular will appreciate its beneficial effect on the skin, which it keeps soft and supple. According to TCM, it even protects against skin inflammation and slows down the graying of hair. During the childhood, we will appreciate its effect in treating warts.