If you are going to consume an orange, do not rush to discard the peel.
Many of the main nutrients of this fruit are concentrated in it, so it can be used for medicinal purposes as well gastronomic. Here we tell you how and why to use the orange peel.
The orange is a citrus fruit that is obtained from the sweet orange tree ( Citrus × sinensis ), bitter orange ( Citrus × aurantium ) and orange trees of other varieties or hybrids. Its rind is composed of:
Flavedo : the colorful outer layer of the fruit. Its zest is used to obtain the flavor and aroma of the orange.
Albedo : the thin white pith below the shell. This is bitter and is often used in some gastronomic recipes.
As with other citrus fruits, orange peel strips as its zest are easy to obtain.
For the first ones you only need a vegetable peeler. After washing and drying the orange well, gently wipe the surface while applying pressure (this way you avoid getting only the zest).
If you are looking to get orange zest, rub with a Vegetable grater over the entire layer, applying progressive pressure until you begin to see the albedo.
- Oranges, healthy reasons to eat them daily
Even if you are only going to use a pinch or small portion of either of the two, it is advisable to grate or peel the orange completely and store the surplus in airtight bags in the freezer. This way they will be available when you need them.
Nutrients of orange peel
Like the orange, its peel is rich in vitamins A and C, and dietary fiber. It also stands out for having a higher concentration of phytochemicals than pulp, such as:
- Flavonoids : associated with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-tumor effects.
- Limonoids : associated with antiviral, antifungal, antibacterial, and anticancer effects.
These are the uses and benefits of orange peel:
Purifying
For its antioxidant compounds and important presence of vitamin C, orange peel can help promote the elimination of toxins from the body.
It has also been linked to anti-inflammatory properties, reduction of abdominal bloating and a reduction in flatulence, due to the presence of flavonoids.
The orange peel is rich in fiber, a substance that fulfills a double function in the body, since on the one hand it helps to optimize digestion, improving the absorption of nutrients, while, on the other hand, another prevents overeating.
From traditional medicine it is advisable to drink orange peel infusion on an empty stomach to take advantage of these benefits. To prepare it, you just have to boil the peels of three oranges in a liter of water for a few minutes, let it rest and then strain.
Skin care
Orange peel has phytochemicals that have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties.
These are especially useful to reduce the damage suffered by the skin over time and due to the action of free radicals , unstable molecules that affect healthy cell structures.
To take advantage of these benefits you can prepare an infusion as detailed in the previous point, but instead of drinking it, use it on the affected skin, with the help of a cloth or cotton.
Orange peel zest can also be used to prepare homemade scrubs, to whiten nails, and even mix with shampoos.
Orange peel for odors
Thanks to its active ingredients, strong and pleasant aroma, and antimicrobial nature, orange peel can also be used for:
- Scent environments : thanks to its powerful and pleasant aroma, the orange peel can be used to eliminate bad odors from the home. There are many ways to use it, for example, you can boil it with cinnamon sticks or lavender flowers, strain, and use the preparation in a spray. You can also place it chopped and mixed with salt on a plate in the fridge, for one to two weeks it will absorb bad odors.
- Light a fire : you can use dried orange peels to replace the paper.
- Repel insects : this use can also be used with the peel of other citrus fruits, since they contain limonene, a Natural insect repellent , especially against mosquitoes, flies and ants.
Clean ceramic tiles : like other citrus fruits, such as grapefruits, lemons or limes, oranges have compounds with solvent properties, ideal for removing traces of grease or dirt. You can enhance this effect by mixing it with vinegar and baking soda to clean surfaces of the bathroom or kitchen.
To remind:
Until significant scientific evidence from human trials is available, people interested in using herbal therapies and supplements should exercise extreme caution.
Do not abandon or modify your medications or treatments, first talk to your doctor about the potential effects of alternative or complementary therapies.
Remember, the medicinal properties of herbs and supplements can also interact with prescription drugs, other herbs and supplements, and even alter your diet.
Sources Consulted : Comprehensive Natural Medicines Database, US National Library of Medicine, Department of Agriculture from USA, National Institute of Complementary and Alternative Medicine.