What are the health benefits of combining aged tangerine peel (chenpi) with Pu'er tea?

Generally, the combination of tangerine peel and Pu'er tea offers various health benefits, including warming and protecting the stomach, enhancing alertness, antioxidant effects, lowering lipids and aiding weight loss, as well as regulating qi and resolving phlegm. Detailed explanations are as follows:

1. Warming and Protecting the Stomach: Pu'er tea becomes milder and less irritating after fermentation, and when combined with tangerine peel, it can help warm the stomach. This combination is especially suitable for individuals with cold stomach conditions, helping to relieve gastrointestinal discomfort, warm the digestive system, enhance gastrointestinal function, and reduce the occurrence of stomach discomfort.

2. Enhancing Alertness: Caffeine and theophylline in Pu'er tea help improve alertness, concentration, and memory. Tangerine peel helps relieve stress and anxiety. Together, they can enhance mental condition, alleviate physical fatigue, and refresh the mind.

3. Antioxidant Effects: Both Pu'er tea and tangerine peel contain multiple antioxidant components, such as polyphenols and vitamin C, which help eliminate free radicals in the body, delay aging, boost immunity, and reduce oxidative stress-related damage.

4. Lowering Lipids and Aiding Weight Loss: Pu'er tea helps reduce blood lipids and cholesterol levels and promotes fat metabolism, thus assisting in weight loss and preventing cardiovascular diseases. Tangerine peel also helps regulate fat metabolism, and together they can aid in weight management.

5. Regulating Qi and Resolving Phlegm: Tangerine peel has the effect of regulating qi and resolving phlegm, which can help alleviate symptoms such as chest tightness, cough, and excessive phlegm. Pu'er tea aids in clearing heat and detoxifying. Together, they can improve respiratory discomfort and reduce cough frequency, providing a cough-relieving effect.

However, tangerine peel Pu'er tea should be consumed in moderation, as excessive consumption may lead to insomnia, palpitations, or other discomforts. Pregnant women, nursing mothers, children, and individuals with specific health conditions should consult a physician before consumption.