Efficacy and Functions of Notoginseng and Tangerine Peel Powder

Core Therapeutic Effects

Promotes blood circulation and stops bleeding; relieves cough and expels phlegm; protects blood vessels

Introduction

Notoginseng (Panax notoginseng) powder is derived from the rhizomes of the notoginseng plant—specifically, ground powder made from its main root. It is warm in nature, with a sweet and slightly bitter taste, and enters the Liver, Stomach, and Large Intestine meridians. Tangerine peel (Chen Pi), on the other hand, is the dried mature pericarp of citrus fruits belonging to the Rutaceae family and their cultivated varieties. It is warm in nature, with a bitter and pungent taste, and enters the Lung and Spleen meridians. So, what are the therapeutic effects and benefits of the combined notoginseng and tangerine peel powder?

Therapeutic Effects and Benefits of Notoginseng–Tangerine Peel Powder

1. Promotes Blood Circulation and Stops Bleeding

Notoginseng powder contains total notoginsenosides, which inhibit platelet aggregation. Thus, when bruising or minor bleeding occurs, applying notoginseng powder directly to the affected area can rapidly stop bleeding. Moreover, it demonstrates excellent efficacy in managing postpartum hemorrhage and traumatic injuries. However, note that notoginseng powder should be taken with warm water and only under the guidance of a qualified healthcare professional—self-medication is strongly discouraged.

2. Relieves Cough and Expels Phlegm

Tangerine peel is warm in nature and effectively regulates Qi, strengthens the Spleen, eliminates food stagnation, resolves phlegm, and alleviates nausea and vomiting. Its volatile oil content exerts an expectorant effect by stimulating respiratory secretions, thereby facilitating easier expulsion of phlegm—hence its efficacy in relieving cough and expelling phlegm. Additionally, tangerine peel polysaccharides exhibit potent hydroxyl radical scavenging activity in vitro, conferring antioxidant properties. Furthermore, notoginseng powder contributes to skin brightening, anti-aging, and overall beauty enhancement.

3. Protects Blood Vessels

The total notoginsenosides in notoginseng powder effectively dilate blood vessels, lower blood pressure, improve microcirculation, increase blood flow, and prevent atherosclerosis—making it highly beneficial for prevention and management of various cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases. Moreover, notoginseng powder exerts bidirectional regulation of blood glucose levels and helps prevent hyperlipidemia and hyperglycemia. It also proves effective in treating facial hyperpigmentation, acne, and pimples.

Contraindications for Notoginseng Powder

1. Menstruating Women

Since notoginseng powder primarily promotes blood circulation and resolves stasis, its use during menstruation—when the body is already experiencing physiological bleeding—may lead to increased menstrual flow or prolonged periods. Pregnant women are also advised against consuming notoginseng powder to avoid potential adverse effects on both maternal health and fetal development.

2. Individuals with Weak Digestive Function

Although notoginseng powder offers notable tonic benefits, individuals with inherently weak gastrointestinal function may poorly absorb its active components or derive minimal nutritional benefit. Therefore, those with compromised digestive health are generally advised against its use. Additionally, individuals with known hypersensitivity or allergy to notoginseng components must avoid using this product.

3. Patients with Wind-Heat Common Cold

The rhizome of notoginseng is used medicinally and possesses a cool nature, primarily exerting heat-clearing and detoxifying effects—thus proving beneficial for conditions such as excessive internal heat or pharyngitis. However, it is unsuitable for patients with wind-cold common cold, as it may exacerbate symptoms. Conversely, notoginseng powder is warm in nature and therefore contraindicated in cases of wind-heat common cold.

Precautions When Using Notoginseng Powder

Notoginseng powder is warm in nature and functions to promote blood circulation and stop bleeding, commonly employed in treating traumatic injuries and postpartum hemorrhage. However, due to individual constitutional differences, long-term use may paradoxically cause blood stasis or abnormal bleeding in some patients. Prolonged consumption may also induce “excess heat” (a Traditional Chinese Medicine concept), manifesting as epistaxis, gingival swelling, oral ulcers, or constipation.

We hope the above information is helpful to you.