Citrus Peels – sources, health benefits, nutrients, uses and constituents at NaturalPedia.com

08/09/2017 / By Earl Garcia

Citrus peels are practically the skins of various citrus fruits such as lemon, orange, lime, and grapefruit. Often dismissed and discarded, many people tend to overlook the many health benefits that citrus peels offer. In fact, the scientific community has concurred that the peels may provide additional nutrients that may help ward off a plethora of diseases. Also, an article in the health and wellness website Live Strong underscores the importance of consulting a physician about the potential benefits of citrus peel.

List of known nutrients

Citrus peels are loaded with essential vitamins and minerals that help stave off a host of infections and diseases. Separate entries from the SELF Nutrition Data and Nutrition Value websites enumerate the many important components found in citrus peels.

Alpha-carotene
Beta-carotene
Beta-cryptoxanthin
Calcium
Choline
Copper
Folate
Hesperidine
Hexadecanoic Acid
Iron
Limonene
Lutein
Magnesium
Niacin
Nobiletin
Octadecanoic Acid
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega-6 Fatty Acids
Pectin
Phosphorus
Phytosterols
Potassium
Selenium
Sodium
Tannins
Tetradecanoic Acid
Vitamin A
Vitamin B6
Vitamin C
Vitamin E
Zeaxanthin
Zinc

Medicinal uses for citrus peels

Citrus peels are greatly valued for their potential in cancer prevention. A previous study has demonstrated that consuming citrus peels was associated with reduced odds of developing skin cancer among residents of Arizona, where citrus fruits are abundant. According to the result, people who had the highest citrus peel consumption had the lowest risk of developing the disease. The superfoods were also shown to effectively slash the risk of developing both colon and breast cancer. Also, past research showed that the limonene compound in citrus peels was the main component that thwarts cancer onset.

Citrus peels are also notably effective in lowering the body’s total cholesterol levels. In fact, a previous study notes that consuming citrus peels was associated with a 32 percent to 40 percent decline in bad cholesterol levels. Aside from this, the high nobiletin content in citrus peels are known to reduce the odds of developing inflammation and cardiovascular diseases.

In yet another study, citrus peels are found to lower the odds of developing diabetes. The nobiletin, tangeretin, and synephrine compounds in citrus peels are shown to improve insulin sensitivity. Likewise, citrus peels are a rich source of dietary fibers such as pectin and tannins that help alleviate various digestive issues such as constipation, acidity, vomiting, and heartburn. Aside from this, theys are also touted to induce healthy weight loss and treat oral problems such as bad breath and stained teeth.

In addition, citrus peels are known to effectively eliminate phlegm and fortify the respiratory system. Likewise, they boast of histamine-reducing compounds and antioxidants that stave off various respiratory issues such as asthma, bronchitis, cold, flu and lung cancer. Moreover, citrus peels are an excellent source of hesperidine, a compound that prevents bone loss. They also possess potent antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral properties that address colds, flu, bacterial infections, and intestinal parasites.

Body systems supported by citrus peels

Citrus peels are notably effective in promoting the body’s cardiovascular profile. Likewise, they are known to improve digestive health and fortify the immune system. In addition, citrus peels support the skeletal and respiratory systems.

Ways to use citrus peels

Citrus peels are widely consumed in candied form. The rinds from oranges, lemons, and grapefruits are among the most commonly used ingredients in making candied citrus peels. An article posted on The Telegraph website provides a step-by-step guide in making this sweet treat.