Quick Facts
| Latin Name | Benincasae Exocarpium |
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| Chinese Name & Pinyin | 冬瓜皮 · Dong Gua Pi |
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| Medicinal Part | Others |
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| Efficacy Category | Dampness-draining |
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| Botanical Origin | The dried ripe exocarp of Benincasa hispida (Thunb.) Cogn. (Cucurbitaceae). |
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| Nature & Flavour | Sweet; Cool |
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| Channels Entered | Spleen, Small Intestine |
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What Is Dong Gua Pi?
Dong Gua Pi (Chinese Waxgourd Peel) is a medicinal herb of Traditional Chinese Medicine.
Produced nationwide.
Nature & Flavour: Sweet; Cool
Channels Entered: Spleen, Small Intestine
Dong Gua Pi: Materia Medica Profile
Identification & Quality Standard
Benincasae Exocarpium
Botanical Origin
The dried ripe exocarp of Benincasa hispida (Thunb.) Cogn. (Cucurbitaceae).
Production Regions
Produced nationwide.
Quality Requirements
Superior material is thin, outer greenish and inner white.
Macroscopic Features
Irregular thin slices, often curved, 0.1~0.2 cm thick; externally grayish-yellow or grayish-green, with fine white hairs and waxy powder; inner surface grayish-white, rough; texture light and brittle; faint odor; bland taste.
Traditional TCM Properties
Sweet; CoolSpleenSmall Intestine
Traditional Functions
Promotes diuresis and reduces edema, clears summerheat.
How Dong Gua Pi Is Used in TCM
In the Chinese materia medica, Dong Gua Pi is classified among the Dampness-draining herbs.
Medical Disclaimer — This article is provided for educational purposes only and describes traditional Chinese medicine concepts. It is not medical advice, and it is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Always consult a qualified practitioner before using any herb, particularly if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medication or managing a diagnosed condition.
