Additionally, the orange peel contains more vitamin C. While the peel contains 136 milligrams of vitamin C, the flesh only contains about 71 milligrams.
Other important nutrients found in the orange peel include:
- Copper
- Calcium
- Magnesium
- Fiber
- Vitamin A
- Vitamin B
Benefit 1: Boosts Heart Health
The orange peel contains the plant pigment hesperidin. This is a bioflavonoid with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects found primarily in citrus fruits. In some studies, hesperidin has been shown to reduce both cholesterol and high blood pressure. Both of these factors contribute to reducing the risk of heart disease.
In a study on overweight middle-aged men, supplementing with hesperidin from orange peel significantly improved systolic blood pressure in just four weeks. The polymethoxylated flavones in orange peel also contribute to cardiovascular health. In addition to reducing cholesterol more than prescription drugs, orange peel has the advantage of causing fewer side effects compared to medications.
Benefit 2: Reduces Inflammation and Allergies
Some compounds in orange peel can inhibit the release of histamine. This is the chemical that causes allergic reactions and plays a role in explaining why you feel uncomfortable after consuming the wrong food for your body.
By eating dried orange peel, you can reduce the risk of allergies. Furthermore, you can also fight off colds thanks to the high concentration of vitamin C in orange peel, which helps strengthen the immune system to ward off diseases. Additionally, the benefits of orange peel also support expectoration, pushing phlegm out of the respiratory system.
Benefit 3: Good for Dental Health
If you are experiencing bad breath or sensitive teeth, using orange peel can help. By chewing on a few slices of dried orange peel, you can naturally improve your breath and whiten your teeth.
Another method for you is to grind dried orange peel into powder, dry it, and mix it with toothpaste. Applying this method 2-3 times a week will help eliminate yellowing and plaque on your teeth.
Benefit 4: Orange Peel Water for Weight Loss
According to Ayurveda, one of the benefits of orange peel is its ability to increase metabolism. Orange peel contains a lot of fiber, vitamins, and antioxidant flavonoids. These minerals not only have health benefits but also help you safely and effectively lose weight.
How to Make Orange Peel Water for Weight Loss
Ingredients:
- Clean and dried orange peel
Instructions:
- Boil water and add the orange peel.
- Wait for about 5 minutes, remove the orange peel and soak it in a bowl of cold water with a little salt, leave it overnight.
- Remove the orange peel from the bowl, rinse it again with cold water, and let it dry.
- Expose the orange peel to the sun until it is dry and dark again.
- Once the orange peel is sufficiently dried, store it in a container for later use.
- For each batch of orange peel water, take 5-7 pieces of dried orange peel and steep them in 500ml of hot water.
You can use orange peel water as a substitute for filtered water every day. Not only does it help with weight loss, but this drink also helps boost your immunity and cleanse your body.