Dried Orange Peel (Citrus sinensis)

Dried peel of Citrus sinensis, sweet orange. The aromatic peel is the source of orange essential oil, a long-traditional culinary spice, and a traditional carminative (digestive aromatic) herb in Western and Chinese herbalism. In TCM, dried tangerine/orange peel ("chen pi") is a foundational herb that increases in value with age.

Key Facts

Botanical name

Citrus sinensis

Family

Rutaceae (citrus family)

Common names

Orange Peel, Sweet Orange Peel

Aromatic compounds

Limonene (primary; 90%+ of orange essential oil), citral, linalool

Common uses

Culinary baking and cooking, tea, tincture base, Old Fashioned cocktails, potpourri

TCM relative

"Chen pi" (aged tangerine peel) is a foundational TCM herb

What is Dried Orange Peel?

Orange peel is the bright outer skin of the orange fruit, dried and cut for storage. The peel contains substantial essential oil - primarily limonene, which gives oranges their characteristic aroma. Across European and Chinese traditions, dried citrus peel is one of the most universally used aromatic and digestive herbs.

How to Use Dried Orange Peel

For tea: steep 1 teaspoon of dried peel per 8 oz cup in hot water for 5-10 minutes. In baking: add to scones, cookies, breads, and cakes. In cocktails: a strip of dried orange peel is the classic Old Fashioned garnish (run a flame near the strip to release the oils before adding). In tincture: a base ingredient in many traditional bitters formulations.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is dried orange peel used for?
Tea, culinary baking and cooking, cocktail garnish, tincture base, and potpourri. In TCM, aged orange/tangerine peel is a foundational herb.

What is "chen pi"?
Aged tangerine peel in TCM; a foundational herb believed to increase in value with age.

How long does dried orange peel stay aromatic?
Stored sealed and away from light, dried peel retains aroma for 1-2 years.

Can I use this in baking?
Yes; rehydrate in liquid or grind to powder for baking.

What is limonene?
The primary essential oil compound of citrus peel (90%+ of orange oil). Limonene gives oranges their characteristic aroma.

Is dried orange peel safe daily?
Yes; well-tolerated as a daily tea or culinary ingredient.

This product has not been approved by the Food and Drug Administration and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. We recommend that you consult with a qualified healthcare practitioner before using any herbal products, particularly if you are pregnant, nursing, or on any medications.