Just like lemons, oranges are an excellent source of vitamin C as well as vitamins A and B, potassium, calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, soluble fiber and many other nutrients.
The fruits acids and the vitamin C are concentrated the most under the skin peels. This is why you should never throw away the peels because they contain more flavonoids and phytonutrients than the inner pulp of the fruit.
Here are 3 excellent ways you can use orange peels
Remove blackheads and whiteheads
The orange peel can be used as an exfoliator that will remove the dead skin cells, dirt and other impurities from the skin. It also prevents the formation of whiteheads and blackheads and can reduce acne breakouts.
- Prepare a paste by mixing equal amounts of orange peel powder and plain yogurt.
- Apply the paste on your face and neck with your fingers using circular motions.
- Leave it on for 15-20 minutes.
- Gently rub the paste off with wet fingers.
- Use the mixture every day until all the blackheads and whiteheads are gone. Repeat once a week to prevent them from reappearing.
Whiten teeth
Fresh orange peel can efficiently remove stains from the teeth particularly those caused by smoking due to d-limonene which is a compound that has the ability to whiten the teeth.
Rub your teeth for 2-3 minutes with the inside of an orange peel. Rinse your mouth afterwards with lukewarm water. You should repeat the procedure twice a day until you are happy with the results.
You can also create a paste by mixing orange peel powder and water, and you can also add dried leaves in the mixture. Brush your teeth with the mixture twice a day for a few weeks.
Promote weight loss
Orange peels contain numerous components including vitamin C which is an excellent antioxidant that helps burn fat and speed up the weight loss process.
Consume more orange peel tea instead of coffee and sodas. This is how you can prepare the orange peel tea:
- Dry the peels of several oranges in a cool and dry place.
- When they are completely dry, take 1 tablespoon of them and put it in 1 cup of hot water.
- Steep for 10 minutes.
- Remove the peels from the liquid and add some raw honey.
- You should drink 2 cups of the tea daily.
Note: Always use organic orange peels and make sure you wash them thoroughly before drying them.