Citrus aurantium

Orange peel refers to the outer, colored skin of oranges, which is typically removed and discarded before eating the fruit. However, orange peel has been used for centuries in traditional medicine systems like Ayurveda, as it is rich in beneficial plant compounds.

Here are some Ayurvedic properties and health benefits associated with orange peel:

Ayurvedic Properties:

Rasa (taste): Bitter (tikta), Astringent (kashaya), Pungent (katu)
Virya (energy): Cooling (shita)
Vipaka (post-digestive effect): Pungent (katu)
Doshas (constitutions): Balances Kapha and Pitta, aggravates Vata in excess.

Health Benefits:

Digestive health: Orange peel is believed to stimulate digestion, relieve indigestion, and reduce bloating and gas.
Immune system health: Orange peel is rich in vitamin C, which can help to support the immune system and protect against infections.
Respiratory health: Orange peel is believed to have expectorant properties, which can help to relieve respiratory congestion and promote the elimination of mucus from the lungs.
Skin health: Orange peel is often used in Ayurvedic preparations for skin health, as it is believed to have anti-inflammatory and wound-healing properties.
Anti-inflammatory properties: Orange peel is believed to have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to reduce inflammation and pain in the body.
Antioxidant properties: Orange peel contains flavonoids and other antioxidants, which can help to protect the body against damage from free radicals.

It is important to note that more scientific research is needed to validate these benefits and to determine the safety and effectiveness of orange peel for these uses. It is also recommended to use organic oranges when using the peel, to avoid ingesting pesticides or other harmful chemicals.

santra chilka – संतरा छिलका – Orange Peel – Citrus aurantium