Tangy, delicious benefits of orange peels

Many people have the tendency to reach for the peeler when eating fruits as they never imagine that there is any usefulness in that part they are getting rid of. Orange skin, rind or zest as it is referred to in provides more benefits than being a protective covering for the fruit, experts have pointed […]

Many people have the tendency to reach for the peeler when eating fruits as they never imagine that there is any usefulness in that part they are getting rid of. Orange skin, rind or zest as it is referred to in provides more benefits than being a protective covering for the fruit, experts have pointed out.

Orange peels they say, are an abundant source of carbohydrates that have multiple health-promoting properties

In 2003 Arland T. Hotchkiss, a carbohydrate chemist at the ARS Eastern Regional Research Center (ERRC) in Wyndmoor, Pa., demonstrated for the first time that pectin, a type of carbohydrate in orange peel, has “prebiotic” properties. These prebiotic carbohydrates, also known as oligosaccharides, are found in certain fruits and vegetables. Prebiotics are indigestible foods or nutrients that increase the growth of beneficial “probiotic” bacteria in the large intestine. Probiotic bacteria stimulate health and help prevent foodborne pathogen growth.

Prebiotics are beginning to be used in food products and in animal feeds. Pectin is used as a gelling agent in jelly products and to stabilize dairy products. Orange peels are used in cattle feed, but their value is less than 5 cents a pound.

Hottchkiss along with Robert Rastall and Glenn Gibson found this new class of “anti-adhesive” prebiotics, those that prevent pathogens from binding to the intestine.

Everything about nature in this sense usually has multiple benefits and the orange peel is a typical example. Asides the discovery the prebiotics, it is also said that orange peels contain essential oils that are Limonene, which comprises 95% of the oil in an orange’s peel is being used in all sorts of applications, including the manufacture of plastics.

According to Green Living Tips, due to the high content of flammable oil in orange peel, dried peel makes a great firestarter or kindling. Amongst the other benefits of this zest are:

– It seems that cats don’t like the smell of peel, so you can place them around plants where you don’t want cats digging.

– Using a “zester”, the top layer of an orange peel can be scraped to produce zest. This can then be used to strong flavor to foods, such as sauces, soups and salads. The zest can be dried overnight and then stored in airtight bottles for future use.

– Dried orange peels can be placed in a cloth bag and placed in closets and cupboards to reduce musty odours.

– A puree blend of orange peel and water can be applied to an area to discourage ants from crossing.

– Most insects hate limonene – the oil in the peel. Small piles of zest can be placed around an area to keep it free from flies and mosquitos. A great way to enjoy a picnic without having to use commercial repellents or insecticides!

– To deodorize a garbage disposal unit, throw down a few peels while it’s operating

– Candied orange peels are a tasty treat that seem very simple to make. Plenty of recipes can be found on the Internet.

Tips on extracting orange oil

Orange oil is being used in many cleaning products these days for its pleasant aroma and powerful solvent properties. As an essential oil, it has many health-related benefits. If you’d like to have a go at making your own orange oil extract, try this:

Note: because this process uses solvents, wear gloves, keep out of reach of children and naked flame and the same applies for the finished product. Orange oil is flammable and very corrosive. For most cleaning purposes, a quarter of an ounce (7mls) mixed in with a quart (1 liter) of water should be sufficient. Always spot test a brew before applying in quantity, they advise.

1. Dry the orange peels

2. Grind the peels

3. Place into a mason (glass) jar and cover with grain alcohol (even vodka)

4. Shake vigorously for a few minutes. If possible repeat this over a couple of days. Warmed alcohol will help yield more oil

5. Strain mixture through a coffee filter

6. Place mixture in a shallow dish, cover and allow alcohol to evaporate

7. What’s left over will be orange oil

Just as orange peels have been proved to be essentials, the peel of one apple, is said to have 87% more phytochemicals which lower the risks of certain cancers.

Experts advised you to go for unpeeled, organic cucumber and enjoy the benefits of lesser wrinkles. The purple skin of an eggplant contains potassium – which prevents muscle cramps, and fiber which helps trim down your excess weight.