Harmony is the guiding principle in ancient Chinese philosophy and the heart of Traditional Chinese Medicine.  In fact, the wisdom of Dao considers harmony as one of the primary principles of the universe.  It is also considered as a vitalizing element in all sentient beings that allows us to function and live well in a world which is constantly changing.

One of the fastest ways of achieving harmony is to live closely with authentic life-giving forces such as nature, food, meditation, and of course, Qi.  This is easier said than done, especially when our modern lifestyles have compelled us to drift far away from this vitalizing harmony and exchange it for temporary fixes and short-lived comforts.  How can we restore the balance among mind, body, and spirit in order to fully enjoy the many perks of being alive?

Traditional Chinese Medicine has long offered herbal remedies that, according to its theory, help individuals restore harmony by supporting the smooth flow of Qi. Many of these herbs are traditionally used to promote balance and support the body’s natural ability to recalibrate.

One such herb which replenishes Qi and restores harmony in the body is the Red Tangerine Peel (or Ju Hong).

This herb is featured in our Digestive Harmony formula, which is designed to support digestive balance and overall well-being.

Red Tangerine Peel is the outermost peel of the orange, also known as the pummelo peel.  Ju Hong is a warm, bitter (bordering on slightly pungent), and a fragrant herb with many health benefits due to its healthful components such as Naringin, Naringenin, Citral, Geraniol, Linalool, Anthranilic acid, Methyl ester, and others.

“In TCM, Ju Hong is traditionally used to support lung function and help the body maintain internal balance, particularly when phlegm patterns are present. Moreover, it strengthens the spleen, specifically a Chinese medicine condition called "damp spleen", helping replenish "spleen Qi" deficiency (read more about this in Asian Functional Foods here and Clinical Handbook of Chinese Herbs: Desk Reference, Revised Edition here.  For more on the Spleen-stomach theory and the role of TCM in strengthening their functions, check this study).  

Ju Hong is commonly used in TCM-inspired wellness routines during times of occasional digestive sluggishness or imbalance, helping to support overall digestive harmony. Modern research and TCM usage have explored Ju Hong for its potential wellness-supporting properties, including interest in its natural compounds with antioxidant-like activity. Like all aspects of Chinese medicine, harmony can be achieved through practice, routine and balance, and incessant efforts. 

At DAO Labs, we source Red Tangerine Peel sustainably from trusted farms across China. Each batch is carefully tested, processed, and retested to ensure quality and consistency. And because we believe that herbal rituals should be enjoyable, we work to create formulas that are both effective and pleasant to use—without compromising on the traditions that guide our practice.

Care Consideration: Just a reminder that the above information is not a substitute for medical care and is not a substitute for medical advice or recommendations from a healthcare provider. This information is not intended to treat, mitigate, or cure any disease.  That said, we encourage you to connect with an Acupuncturist in your community to learn more about this and other Traditional Chinese Medicine options.  If you’ve got questions about Chinese herbal medicine or getting started with an Acupuncturist, feel free to connect with us at hello@mydaolabs.com.

Dr. Eric Karchmer is a practicing Chinese medical doctor, medical anthropologist, and co-founder and Chief Doctor of Chinese Medicine for DAO Labs. From 1995-2000, Eric studied at the Beijing University of Chinese Medicine and today is both a licensed acupuncturist and professor at Appalachian State University. Eric can be reached at drkarchmer@mydaolabs.com.