The skin of many vegetables is often more nutritious than the vegetable itself. Take potato peelings as an example, and we bet that you are probably one of many people that simply discard them.

Potato peel is loaded with fiber, vitamin C, contains an abundance of minerals, such as calcium, iron, potassium, and sodium. It is no surprise that the skin of some fruits can also be nutritious and useful for many purposes -- like oranges and bananas, for example.

Orange Skin

Orange skin works great, but the only thing you need to remember when recycling or using orange peels, or the skin of any other fruit, is that these are often treated with chemicals and pesticides to keep away any hungry insects. Luckily, oranges are less treated with pesticides than any other fruit during the cultivation process.

However, it is still better if you give them a quick clean. Prepare a simple solution using a tablespoon of lemon juice, a tablespoon of white vinegar, and a cup of ordinary water. Soak your oranges in the solution for a couple of minutes.

The Skins Are Golden

Peels and skins of many fruits and vegetables are rich in powerful nutrients, but orange peelings are actually a little goldmine. The peel from a medium-sized orange contains approximately 60 flavonoids and 117 different phytonutrients. According to Dr J. Bhattacharjee, an Ayurvedic medicinal guru, orange rind contains nutrients that are good for the skin and the body in general, and can do some good for your homes, too.

Health Benefits of Orange Peel

In the Ayurvedic terminology, the orange skin tastes ‘titka’, meaning ‘bitter’. Orange rind will not only help you boost your metabolism, it can also improve the digestion. It does miracles in the treatment of gases, heartburn, nausea and vomiting, and it is great appetite stimulant.

It is often used to dissolve phlegm, and as an aid in treating and pacifying asthma attacks.

These medicinal properties come due to the essential oils contained in the orange skin. They have strong anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory properties. Moreover, the essential oil called ‘D-Limonene’ is powerful in diluting stomach acids, and maintaining good intestinal health. Last, but not less important, it provides normal function of the liver.

Reduces Cholesterol And Fends off Cancer And Osteoporosis

The latest studies have shown that orange rind can reduce cholesterol and triglycerides, meaning it is beneficial for people with high level of cholesterol. The studies also showed that the skin can fend off colon cancer and osteoporosis, thanks to the flavonoid called ‘Hesperidine’ it contains.