Pomegranate Peel (Gourd-shaped, brownish-red, rough with glossy raised dots, tubular persistent calyx, brownish-yellow inside)

【Naming】

Pomegranate Peel

 【Source】

Miscellaneous Records of Famous Physicians (別錄下品)‧Anshiliu (安石榴, Pomegranate)

 【Frequency of Use】

E

 【Botanical Origin】

The dried pericarp of the pomegranate Punica granatum L. (Punicaceae).

 【Description】

Irregular or semi-circular fragments or gourd-shaped, 2~3㎜ thick. The outer surface is dark red or brownish-red, rough, with small white raised dots; the apex has persistent protruding tubular calyx; the base has a fruit stalk. The inner surface is bright yellow or brownish-yellow, with raised reticulated fruit stalk scars. It is brittle and firm, and easily broken. The cut surface is bright yellow, with a faint odor and astringent taste.

 【Identification】

《Essentials of Medicinal Properties》 (藥性切用): “The one with thousand petals is good.” 《Effective and Convenient Formulas》 (奇效簡便良方): “Decoct pomegranate peel in water and soak it cold; the sour one is the best.”
It is best to choose the ones that are large, round, firm, white in color, and have a strong odor.

 【Category】

Fruits