Bitter Orange Peel tincture, also
known as orange zest, has been used for hundreds of years in TCM (Traditional
Chinese Medicine). The fruit comes from an evergreen tree native to
Africa, Arabia, and Syria with long spines and incredibly fragrant flowers. The
membranes and pulp of the fruit are very sour and bitter. Also
known as Chen pi or ju pi, the extract has been used to improve digestion,
relieve intestinal gas, bloating, constipation, skin and to resolve coughs with
phlegm. It is considered one of the greatest sources of vitamin C and provides a
natural, potent source when used to enhance your immune system, support your
digestive system and ward off invasive infections.
Weight Control
For those on a weight management
plan, Bitter Orange Peel also reduces the desire to overeat, raise metabolism,
improve stamina and energy, and speed up the elimination of unwanted stored
fat. It is highly nutritious and offers support for gastrointestinal maladies
such as dyspepsia, colic, flatulence, indigestion, upset stomach, cramps,
constipation, diarrhea, and nausea.
Indigestion
Bitter Orange Peel is particularly helpful
in the digestion of fatty foods. The component of the extract, d-limonene, food
pass smoothly through the stomach, which, in turn, lessens the production of
stomach acid. This prevents stomach acid from backing up into the esophagus; one
of the main causes of heartburn. And the tincture also works well to soothe a stomachache,
even those caused by nervousness. The pectin in Orange Peel stimulates the
growth of healthy bacteria, thus helping clear toxins from your system.
Blood Sugar Levels
Bitter Orange Peel is also a good
source of pectin, a natural fiber that can help normalize glucose levels.
Additionally, it can provide an extra benefit for diabetics and those working
to reduce overeating, by decreasing the rise in blood sugar after a meal. It
may also be helpful in lowering cholesterol levels. In a May 2004 "Journal
of Agricultural and Food Chemistry" article, Canadian and U.S. Dept. of
Agriculture reported that isolated compounds from orange and tangerine peels showed
promise as a natural alternative for reducing LDL cholesterol and reducing the
levels of triglycerides, both of which are known to contribute to disorders
such as adult-onset diabetes and obesity. Therefore, citrus peel extracts may
improve insulin sensitivity.
Fungicidal
Limonene is also helpful for
dissolving kidney stones. In fact, the use of D-limonene mixed with
concentrated, unsweetened cranberry juice has proven to work for this
condition. Additionally, the antiseptic, bactericidal, and fungicidal
properties of the extract may be extremely beneficial in eliminating kidney or
urinary tract infections.
Anti-inflammatory
Bitter Orange Peel contains
anti-inflammatory properties and has shown some promise, even in conventional
medicine, in certain types of cancer. Like most of its citrus counterparts, it contains
high levels of nobelitin, an antioxidant that protects cells from oxidative
damage and fights free radicals. The peel also has a higher level of vitamin C
than its juice counterpart and contains natural oil, which is utilized by the
body to maintain elasticity in the veins and arteries. This process helps form
the connective tissue, collagen, and keep your capillaries and blood
vessels healthy. The phytonutrient compounds found in Orange Peel, limonoids, are
also being studied as another tool in the fight against cancers of the mouth,
stomach, lungs, skin, colon, and breast. The tincture is rich in
beta-cryptoxanthin, which has proven particularly helpful in the prevention of
lung cancer.
Another quality Orange Peel offers is
a histamine and an anti-inflammatory action, which adds to a long list of
reasons why this tincture is highly effective as a lung cleansing herb. It has
been used for asthma, bronchitis, tuberculosis, COPD, and pneumonia. And when
you find yourself the victim of a ruthless cough brought on by a cold or the flu,
Orange Peel may be just what you need to quiet that cough. The vitamin C
content of this tincture provides a powerful antioxidant that can help with
secondary respiratory infections and help prevent bronchial inflammation.
Skin
Orange peel contains hesperidin, an
antioxidant and natural oil which is utilized by the body to help maintain skin
elasticity. It also works well for acne.
When applied topically, the extract reduces the oil content of the skin and
reduce the frequency of breakouts. Orange peel's D-limonene content also acts
as a shield against ultraviolet rays, making it an effective natural sunscreen
when used in lotions. In fact, the anti-tanning effect can make skin a few
shades lighter and remove the harmful effects of the sun on your skin. And Orange Peel is a very good beauty tool, when
used in a wash, to remove dead skin cells, tighten pores and make your skin
look fresher and more youthful.
From this bitter fruit, come many sweet
benefits for your health and wellbeing and enormous medicinal value, providing a
wide array of beneficial nutrients; and all from the peel of this tangy fruit.
