Picture this: You’re standing in your kitchen, about to toss away orange peels after enjoying a juicy snack. But what if I told you that these seemingly ordinary peels hold a secret to better health?
You might be surprised to learn that orange peel extract surpasses being merely an old remedy; it’s a timeless natural resource with incredible potential for health and well-being. From its ancient roots to modern-day research, You won’t believe what these unassuming peels can do for your well-being!
Ancient Usage
In most basic terms, Orange Peel Extract is a substance derived from the peel of oranges. It is acquired by removing the delightful and sweet-smelling compounds from the orange strip. This extract is generally utilized for different purposes, basically because of its charming citrus flavor and potential health benefits.
The Tale of the Chinese Apothecary
Centuries ago in China, talented pharmacists scoured neighborhood markets for the best orange peels. They used it for relieving digestive disorders and overall health enhancement. Dry citrus peels, also known as “chenpi“, have been traditionally used to treat and relieve intestinal inflammation.
From Ayurveda to Your Kitchen
The ancient Indian practice of Ayurveda, also mentions the health benefits of orange peel extract. As per it, Orange peel is tikta (bitter) and has laghu (light) and ruksha (dry) properties. All of these properties make it a good pacifier for maintaining hormones and certain doshas imbalances. It is useful in the health conditions originating from the imbalance of these doshas. Orange peel holds the status of a valuable herb, recognized for its role in promoting digestion, immunity, and skin health. Even today, many traditional Ayurvedic recipes incorporate orange peel extract to promote balance and vitality.
Europe’s Love Affair with Orange Peel
Orange peel extract became famous in Europe, particularly during the Renaissance. People used Orange peel both in culinary and medicinal circles. Later on, People started using it in perfumes and in expensive liqueurs, including the famous Cointreau. But beyond its use in fine dining, people value it for its potential to ease digestive troubles and stimulate the appetite.
Orange peel extract has surely very rich ancient history, backing its usage for health and medical improvements. Europeans gave it a new dimension by adding it to their culinary practices and aroma compounds. Apart from it, many modern-day research also advocates its various health benefits. (ref)
Benefits of Orange Peel Extract
Orange peel extract has enormous benefits in boosting overall health and treating various disorders in the body. Let’s explore further down below:
- Improves Digestion and aids in Weight loss
Orange peel extract’s anti-inflammatory properties make it known for addressing a variety of digestive and gastrointestinal issues, such as diarrhea, heartburn, and acidity, thus improving digestive disorders. Its natural compounds can soothe the stomach and promote smoother digestion.
Consuming Orange peel extract increases your metabolism and helps in burning fat from the body. (ref)
- Treats Bad Breathe and enhances Oral Health
Orange peels can help fight cavities and keep your breath fresh. The presence of limonene in orange peels acts as a natural solvent and mouth fresheners combat bad odor and also help to whiten teeth.
Most of the Gum diseases often start with the bacteria accumulating in the mouth. Regular use of orange peel extract reduces this bacterial load and thereby reduces the risk of gum diseases like gingivitis.
- Healthy and Glowing Skin
Orange Peel Extract is rich in antioxidants and often used to treat skin inflammation and hydrate dry and dull skin. It is very useful in removing flaky and itchy skin as it locks the necessary moisture, thereby not allowing the moisture to escape. Being Hydrated all the time is also essential for having glowing skin. The Orange peel extract is a rich source of vitamin C and contributes mainly to healthy, radiant skin. It can help reduce signs of aging, improve skin texture, and provide a natural glow. The orange peels also help the body to fight toxic free radicals and prevent oxidative stress.
- May Aid in Preventing Cancer
Orange peel Extract may help slow down the growth of cancer cells. In fact, Orange peels can reduce the number of squamous cells of carcinoma. It has been observed that people who regularly consume orange peels have fewer chances of being diagnosed with lung cancer and skin cancer than those who only eat the orange inside.
Orange peels are a good source of the polyphenols hesperidin and polymethoxyflavones (PMFs), both of which are being studied for their potential anticancer effects. (ref)
Orange peels consist of limonene, a naturally occurring chemical that researchers have studied for its anti-inflammatory and anticancer properties, including its potential effectiveness against skin cancer. (ref)
- Cure Hangovers
People most widely use orange peel extract for curing hangovers. Just take an orange peels boil them for 15-20 minutes and drink them like tea to get rid of hangovers. Orange peel also contains good amounts of provitamin A, folate, riboflavin, thiamine, vitamin B6, and calcium, which helps promote the overall health of the body.
Watch out For
While various research backs the significant health benefits of Orange Peel Extracts, it’s important to be aware of the need to follow some general precautions. Let’s look into them.
- Allergic Reactions
Some individuals may be sensitive to citrus fruits, including orange peels. If you have a known citrus allergy or experience any adverse reactions like itching, swelling, or hives, discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional.
- Pregnancy and Nursing
If you are pregnant or nursing, it’s advisable to consult with a healthcare professional before adding orange peel extract to your routine to ensure it’s safe for both you and your baby.
- Pesticides
Farmers frequently use pesticides on citrus fruits like oranges to protect them against mold and insects.
Therefore, experts always recommend washing the fruits and the peels before consuming them.
This would make it chemical-free and naturustic for a healthier life.