Do you ever find yourself throwing away orange peels and wondering if there’s a better use for them? I have some exciting news for you – you can make orange peel water! Orange peel water is a refreshing and aromatic beverage gaining popularity for its potential health benefits.
But before you start juicing those peels, you might wonder if drinking orange peel water is safe. Can you consume it without any adverse effects? In this article, we will explore the safety and potential benefits of drinking orange peel water and provide you with all the information you need to know. So, gather your orange peels and embark on a new and potentially delicious journey of incorporating orange peel water into your daily routine. Let’s dive in!
Can You Drink Orange Peel Water?
Yes, you can drink orange peel water, offering a unique flavor and potential health benefits. Orange peel water is made by infusing water with the peel of oranges. It’s important to note that while orange peel water is generally safe to consume, there are a few considerations to keep in mind:
1. Organic and Washed Peels: If you plan to make orange peel water, it’s recommended to use organic oranges to avoid consuming any pesticides or chemicals that might be present on the peel. Additionally, thoroughly wash the oranges before peeling them to remove any dirt or contaminants.
2. Flavor and Aroma: Orange peel water can impart a pleasant citrusy flavor and aroma to the water. It can be a refreshing and flavorful alternative to plain water.
3. Nutrients and Benefits: Orange peels contain vitamins, minerals, and fiber. They also contain compounds like flavonoids and antioxidants that may offer various health benefits, including supporting digestion and immune health. However, remember that the concentration of these nutrients in orange peel water might be lower than eating the peel itself.
4. Potential Bitterness: Orange peels can taste slightly bitter due to their natural compounds. The bitterness may become more pronounced when steeped in water. Some people enjoy the subtle bitterness, while others might find it less appealing.
5. Moderation: Like any flavored water, orange peel water should be consumed in moderation. Drinking it excessively might lead to an excess intake of compounds found in the orange peel.
6. Allergies and Sensitivities: Some individuals might be allergic or sensitive to citrus fruits. If you have known allergies or sensitivities, it’s wise to consult a healthcare professional before consuming orange peel water.
7. Preparation: To make orange peel, water thoroughly wash and peel organic oranges. Add the peels to a water pitcher and let it steep for several hours or overnight in the refrigerator. You can adjust the steeping time to control the intensity of flavor.
In conclusion, orange peel water can be a flavorful and potentially beneficial way to stay hydrated. However, individual preferences and sensitivities vary, so it’s a good idea to listen to your body and consult a healthcare professional if you have any concerns. As with any dietary change, moderation and informed choices are key.
Also Read: How to Make Candied Fruit (Hulu) with Sugar and Water?
What Are The Other Uses Of Orange Peels?
Orange peels are often wasted after eating the juicy insides, but there are plenty of creative ways to repurpose them. From simple methods, such as composting the peels, to more involved ones, such as making tea, you can give orange peels a new purpose and reap many benefits.
One popular use for orange peels is to make tea. Orange peel tea has numerous health benefits, such as aiding digestion and improving respiratory function. It can also reduce stress levels and create a calming effect on those suffering from insomnia due to its high concentration of Vitamin C. If you’d like, you can add honey or any other sweetener of your choice for added flavor and sweetness. Always use organic oranges when creating your tea to avoid artificial flavorings or preservatives found in conventional fruits.
The Right To Make Orange Peel Tea:
Making orange peel tea is a delightful way to enjoy the citrusy flavors and potential health benefits of orange peels. Here’s a simple guide on how to make orange peel tea:
Ingredients:
- Organic oranges
- Water
- Optional: Sweeteners (honey, agave, etc.)
Instructions:
- Gather the Peels: Choose organic oranges to ensure the peels are pesticide-free. Wash the oranges thoroughly to remove any dirt or contaminants.
- Peel the Oranges: Carefully use a vegetable peeler or knife to remove the outer orange part of the peel. Avoid getting too much of the white pith, as it can contribute bitterness to the tea.
- Prepare the Peels: Cut the orange peels into smaller pieces. You can cut them into strips or small chunks, depending on your preference.
- Boil Water: Bring a pot of water to a boil. The amount of water will depend on how many cups of tea you want to make.
- Add Orange Peels: Once the water is boiling, add the orange peels to the pot. Use about 1 to 2 teaspoons of orange peels per cup of water.
- Simmer and Steep: Reduce the heat to a gentle simmer and let the orange peels steep in the hot water for 5 to 10 minutes. This will allow the flavors and nutrients from the peels to infuse into the water.
- Strain and Serve: After steeping, remove the pot from the heat. Use a fine mesh strainer or a tea infuser to strain out the orange peels as you pour the tea into cups.
- Add Sweeteners (Optional): Add a sweet touch to your orange peel tea if desired. Honey, agave, or a sprinkle of sugar can complement the citrusy flavors. Adjust the sweetness to your taste.
- Enjoy Hot or Cold: Orange peel tea can be enjoyed both hot and cold. If you prefer it chilled, let the tea cool down before refrigerating it.
- Storage: Store any leftover orange peel tea in the refrigerator. It’s best to consume it within a day or two to enjoy the freshest flavors.
Orange peel tea offers a zesty and refreshing beverage with a subtle citrus twist. It’s a great way to utilize orange peels’ flavorful and potentially beneficial properties that might otherwise go to waste. As with any herbal tea, feel free to experiment with steeping times and ingredient ratios to find the perfect flavors for your taste buds.
Benefits Of Orange Peels
1. Improve Lung Health
Orange peel water has been gaining popularity as an herbal remedy for various health issues, including lung health. It is believed that the presence of natural compounds like limonene, citric acid, potassium, and other minerals in orange peels may help improve lung health by fighting off bacteria and reducing inflammation. The antioxidants in orange peel water also have anti-aging properties and can help protect the lungs from oxidative damage.
2. Boost Immunity
Orange peels contain a high amount of vitamin C, which is known to boost immunity and help protect against viruses and infections. It can also help reduce inflammation and promote faster healing in the body. In addition, orange peel water is thought to contain anti-fungal properties that can help fight off candida and other unwanted organisms.
3. Promote Digestive Health
Orange peels are rich in dietary fiber, which can help promote digestive health by regulating bowel movements, relieving constipation and bloating, and aiding digestion. The high levels of antioxidants also support gut health by fighting infections and reducing inflammation.
4. Strengthen Heart
Orange peels are a great source of nutrition for the heart. They are filled with hesperidin, a type of flavonoid that has been proven to reduce both cholesterol levels and unwanted blood pressure levels in the body. Not only this, but it also contains anti-inflammatory properties, which help to reduce any injuries or improvements in the presence of existing heart diseases.
Studies show that orange peels can be more effective than certain prescription drugs at reducing cholesterol levels thanks to their polymethoxylated flavones, which have powerful effects on improving cardiovascular health.
5. Help In Weight Loss
Losing weight doesn’t need to be a risky decision. Establishing a healthy diet is one of the best and most natural methods to lose weight. A great addition to any weight loss diet is oranges. They are low in calories, so they won’t become that extra weight you don’t want.
Not only do they have fewer calories, but they also contain dietary fiber, which can control your appetite and reduce binging. Besides their helpfulness in controlling your appetite, orange peels contain vitamin C, which helps burn fat more efficiently and ultimately helps you lose more pounds.
6. Goodbye, Wrinkles:
By drinking TE-A-ME Orange Ginger, you can get 100% natural orange peels in a unique infusion that provides much-needed natural Vitamin C to your body, which may help prevent wrinkles and signs of aging.
A small lifestyle change done regularly, like adding TE-A-ME Orange Ginger to your daily routine, will help make a difference if done consistently over time. Remember, any wrinkle reduction takes time, so stay consistent with your routine for multiple weeks before seeing noticeable results.
Frequently asked questions
1: Can you drink orange peel water?
Absolutely! Drinking orange peel water is safe and beneficial for your health. Orange peels are rich in essential nutrients and bioactive compounds, including vitamin C, dietary fiber, and plant compounds. These components contribute to various health benefits, such as improved digestive health, reduced blood pressure levels, and better heart health.
2: How can orange peel water help with weight loss?
Due to its high fiber content, orange peel water can aid in weight loss. The dietary fiber in orange peels helps promote feelings of fullness, reducing the desire to overeat. Its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties may also support metabolism and fat/burning. Just add fresh orange peels to a cup of hot water, let it steep for a few minutes, strain, and enjoy!
3: Can orange peel water improve my skin health?
Absolutely! Orange peel water is a rich source of vitamin C and other antioxidants that can improve skin health. These antioxidants help combat free radicals, promote collagen production, and reduce signs of aging like wrinkles and fine lines. Drinking orange peel water may contribute to a radiant and youthful complexion.
4: Do drinking orange peel water have any potential side effects?
While orange peel water is generally safe, some individuals may experience stomach discomfort or allergic reactions. If you have a medical condition or are on medication, it’s advisable to consult with a healthcare professional before incorporating orange peel water into your routine.
5: How do I make orange peel water?
Making orange peel water is quite simple. First, ensure you have organic oranges and wash them thoroughly. Cut off the peels and place them in an airtight container. Boil a cup of water and pour it over the orange peels. Let it steep for 5-10 minutes, strain, and drink while warm. For added flavor, you can also add cinnamon sticks or honey. Enjoy the refreshing and health-boosting effects of orange peel water!
Conclusion
Orange peel water is a great way to improve your health and promote weight loss. It’s rich in essential nutrients, dietary fiber, and antioxidants that can help support various bodily functions. Additionally, it may help reduce wrinkles, improve skin health, and boost immunity. To make orange peel water at home, add organic orange peels to boiling water and let it steep for 5-10 minutes before straining and consuming.
