老陈皮的功效与作用有哪些
Old tangerine peel, which refers to citrus peel that has been aged for a long period, is a commonly used traditional Chinese medicinal herb. It offers various health benefits and effects, including regulating qi and strengthening the spleen, resolving phlegm and relieving cough, regulating blood lipids, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory actions, and antioxidant effects. If discomfort occurs after consumption, medical attention should be sought promptly. The specific effects are analyzed as follows:
1. Regulating Qi and Strengthening the Spleen
Old tangerine peel contains abundant volatile oils, such as limonene, which can stimulate the digestive tract, promote gastric juice secretion, and enhance intestinal motility, thereby achieving the effect of regulating qi and improving digestive function.
2. Resolving Phlegm and Relieving Cough
Components in old tangerine peel, such as hesperidin and hesperetin, have strong expectorant properties. They help dilute mucus in the respiratory tract, making it easier to expel. Additionally, they possess anti-inflammatory effects that help alleviate symptoms such as coughing and excessive phlegm.
3. Regulating Blood Lipids
Flavonoid compounds in old tangerine peel can inhibit cholesterol absorption and promote its excretion, thus helping to lower blood lipid levels and prevent atherosclerosis.
4. Antibacterial and Anti-inflammatory Effects
The volatile oil components in old tangerine peel have natural antibacterial properties, capable of inhibiting the growth of various bacteria, such as Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. They also help reduce inflammatory responses.
5. Antioxidant Effects
Old tangerine peel contains flavonoids and vitamin C, which provide antioxidant activity. These components help neutralize free radicals in the body, slow down cellular aging, and contribute to maintaining healthy skin and delaying aging.
The use of old tangerine peel should follow medical advice to avoid excessive or improper usage, ensuring safety and effectiveness. During use, a light diet is recommended to avoid irritating the intestines and causing discomfort.