The Many Benefits of Orange Peel

Thanks to the benefits of orange peel, you can lose weight, boost your metabolism, eliminate body fat, and of course have more energy.
The Many Benefits of Orange Peel
Valeria Sabater

Written and verified by psychologist Valeria Sabater.

Last update: 27 May, 2022

Do you like drinking a fresh glass of orange juice first thing in the morning Great! Now, what do you do with the peels? If you throw them away, it’s a big waste. In this article, we’ll look at the many surprising health benefits of orange peel. Keep reading to find out more!

The benefits of orange peel

Oranges are a delicious, refreshing, and nutritious fruit with a wealth of healthy properties. Furthermore, their many varieties are enjoyed across the globe, and of course, we all take advantage of their vitamins to start the day in the healthiest way possible. However, we mostly tend to use their pulp as opposed to their peel. By throwing it out, you lose out on the amazing health benefits of orange peel. Find out what they are below.

Reduces cholesterol

Benefits of orange peel twist

Orange peel contains hesperidin, a flavonoid with properties that metabolizes blood lipids and reduces them to help your body eliminate them. There is 20% more hesperidin in orange peel than in the fruit. So give it a try, it can help lower your cholesterol.

Provides natural fiber for your intestinal flora

Dried orange peel strips on wooden surface

Orange peel contains pectin, a natural fiber that protects against possible stomach problems. What’s more, it helps to maintain healthy blood sugar levels. In addition, pectin also provides good bacteria that help to care for your intestinal flora, facilitating digestion and relieving bouts of constipation.

Combats infections

Bowl of orange zest with orange in background

Indeed, the benefits of orange peel provide better protection against infections than the fruit itself. They’re packed with vitamins that boost the immune system to fight colds and the flu. Wonderful, right?

Helps you lose weight

Half an orange next to stack of slices

Surprised? From now on, don’t forget that orange peel is a natural ally for weight loss. If you make tea with it, you’ll increase your metabolism. In addition, you’ll eliminate body fat and boost your energy levels. You can drink two glasses of tea a day, one after waking up and another in the evening.

What does orange peel have to offer?

Glass of orange cinnamon tea

At this point, you’re probably wondering what the best way to prepare orange peel is so that you can benefit from all their great properties. Firstly, they can be used daily in jam as a delicious addition to desserts. But of course, jams do contain a lot of sugar, which is why they’re not quite recommended.

Finally, the best, easiest, and healthiest way to take advantage of the many natural benefits of orange peel is to prepare a simple tea. How? It’s easy. Ideally, drink this infusion twice daily, in order to protect your digestive system, reduce cholesterol, and reinforce your immune system.

In the morning and the evening, boil a cup of water. Then, add  a tablespoon and a half of orange zest per cup of water. Let it boil for 10 minutes, and let it infuse for another five. In the winter, you can add a teaspoon of honey. In the summer, add ice and cinnamon for a refreshing beverage. It’s delicious!


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This text is provided for informational purposes only and does not replace consultation with a professional. If in doubt, consult your specialist.