If you eat only eat the pulp and throw the orange peels away, then you have been getting it all wrong. What if we told you that the orange peel is the healthiest component of the entire fruit? This is surprising, isn’t it? Brace yourself for the surprising health benefits of orange peels as you read this article. Scroll down!
1. Prevention of cancer
According to several studies, the flavonoids in orange peels inhibit a protein (termed as RLIP76) that is linked to cancer. The peels also contain another compound called limonene, which can cut cancer risk. Other studies speak of the efficacy of citrus peels in general in preventing cancerous growth in the body.
2. Improve Lung Health
Filled with vitamin C content, orange peels help break down congestion and cleanse the lungs. Vitamin C also boosts immunity, and this helps ward off and prevent lung infections. The peels can help you expel phlegm by cleansing your lungs. Enhanced immunity also prevents ailments like colds and flu.
3. Aids diabetes treatment
The peels are rich in pectin, a fibre that is known to regulate blood sugar levels which can help people with diabetes. Studies have also shown how treatment with orange peel extract can help prevent diabetic nephropathy.
4. Strengthening the heart
Orange peels are rich in a flavonoid called hesperidin, which has been shown to lower blood cholesterol and blood pressure levels. The peel also has anti-inflammatory properties, and since heart disease is caused by inflammation, they can help in this regard. Another set of compounds in orange peels are the polyethoxylated flavones, which lower cholesterol levels better than certain prescription drugs.
5. Aids weight loss
Oranges are low in calories, which is one reason they are a great addition to a weight-loss diet. And they are filled with dietary fibre, which controls your appetite and discourages binging. Orange peels also contain vitamin C which is known to help burn fat.
6. Boosts eye health
Though there is less information on this, some sources say that compounds like limonene, decanal, and citral in orange peels can help boost eye health. They have anti-inflammatory properties that fight infections and improve vision.
7. Aids digestion
The fibre in the fruit peel aids digestion and promotes regularity. Studies also show how citrus fruit peels, in general, have been used since ancient times to treat digestive disorders.
8. Helps fight inflammation
One New York study shows how orange peel exhibits excellent anti-inflammatory properties. Further research tells us how orange peels can suppress inflammation in a way similar to indomethacin, an anti-inflammatory drug. Also, the flavonoids in orange peels are known to permeate membranes and heal inflammation.
9. Protects the teeth
Thanks to the antibacterial properties of orange peels, they protect you from dental caries. Additionally, you can also whiten your teeth using orange peels. The limonene in orange peels also works as a natural scent and solvent. This helps whiten your teeth in a natural way.
10. Makes skin glow
Orange peel makes the skin glow as it treats blackheads, dead cells, acne, and blemishes. It also brightens your face. You can also add milk or curd to get that extra glow or for removing tan.