Orange peel is a popular ingredient used in several cuisines across the world. It is the outer layer of the orange fruit that is usually discarded after peeling the fruit. However, orange peel has several health benefits that many people are not aware of.
One of the most notable benefits of orange peel is its ability to boost the immune system. In this article, we will discuss how orange peel decoction can improve the immune system and protect the body from illnesses.
What is Orange Peel Decoction?
Orange peel decoction is a liquid extract made from orange peels. The extract is made by boiling orange peels in water and then removing the peels from the water after a few minutes of boiling.
The resulting liquid is a concentrated extract of orange peel that contains several nutrients and bioactive compounds. The peel contains high amounts of Vitamin C, bioflavonoids, and carotenoids, which are essential nutrients for boosting the immune system.
How Orange Peel Decoction Boosts Immune System?
Orange peel decoction is rich in Vitamin C, which is a potent antioxidant that helps to protect the body from free radical damage. Free radicals are unstable molecules that can cause damage to the cells, which can eventually lead to diseases.
Vitamin C helps to neutralize the free radicals and prevent damage to the cells. A healthy immune system requires an adequate supply of Vitamin C to function optimally.
Orange peel decoction also contains bioflavonoids, which are natural compounds that are found in several vegetables and fruits. Bioflavonoids have several health benefits, including anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
They also help to boost the immune system by stimulating the production of white blood cells, which are vital components of the immune system. The bioflavonoids in orange peel decoction also help to enhance the absorption of Vitamin C in the body.
Carotenoids such as beta-carotene and lycopene are also present in orange peel decoction. These compounds are antioxidants that help to protect the body from damage caused by free radicals.
They also help to regulate the immune system by enhancing the production of T cells and natural killer cells, which are critical components of the immune system.
Other Health Benefits of Orange Peel Decoction
Aside from boosting the immune system, orange peel decoction has several other health benefits. Some of these benefits include:.
1. Digestive Health
Orange peel decoction has been found to have a positive effect on digestive health. The peel contains dietary fiber, which helps to promote bowel movement and prevent constipation.
It also helps to reduce inflammation in the digestive tract and improve the absorption of nutrients.
2. Skin Health
The antioxidants present in orange peel decoction help to protect the skin from free radical damage. This helps to reduce the risk of premature aging and skin cancer.
The peel also contains Vitamin C, which is essential for the production of collagen, a protein that is necessary for maintaining healthy skin.
3. Heart Health
Several studies have found that orange peel decoction can help to lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease. The peel contains compounds that help to improve blood flow and reduce inflammation in the arteries.
How to Make Orange Peel Decoction
Making orange peel decoction is a simple process. Here’s how to make it:.
- Wash an orange thoroughly to remove any dirt or chemical residue on the skin.
- Peel the orange using a vegetable peeler, making sure to remove only the outer layer of the skin.
- Chop the orange peel into small pieces.
- Bring a pot of water to boil.
- Add the chopped orange peel to the boiling water.
- Lower the heat and let the peel simmer in the water for 10-15 minutes.
- Strain the liquid and discard the peel.
- The resulting liquid is the orange peel decoction.
Conclusion
Orange peel decoction is an excellent natural remedy for boosting the immune system and improving overall health. It is rich in several nutrients and bioactive compounds that have numerous health benefits.
Regular consumption of orange peel decoction can help to protect the body from free radical damage, improve digestive health, promote healthy skin, and reduce the risk of heart disease.