Households across the UK are being urged to boil orange peel in water in December to help fend off winter illnesses and purify the air.
The winter season is now underway which means several months of cold, wet and often icy weather conditions, and more time spent indoors. It is also the time of the year when winter viruses like colds, Covid and flu start to increase, with the colder, drier air helping bugs to survive more easily, while also weakening your body’s immune system defences. While there are small actions you can take to protect against these illnesses, including good hand hygiene, eating well, exercising, opening windows and getting vaccinated, there is another simple way to help boost your immune system and cleanse the air in your home this winter to keep viruses at bay – and all you need is a bit of orange peel.
According to experts, boiling orange peels in water has an array of health benefits, particularly in the winter months.
The process of boiling releases antioxidants and essential oils, like limonene, from the peel which helps to naturally cleanse and purify the air inside your home. Research suggests this can neutralise gases and odours that build up in poorly ventilated spaces, especially during the colder months when windows are often kept closed.
Additionally, the steam from boiling also adds moisture to the dry indoor air which can help with dry sinuses, while also making your home smell lovely and fresh.
Experts at Cooktop Cove explain: “Boiling orange peels helps to release the essential oils and aromatic compounds contained within them. The heat breaks down the cell walls of the peel, allowing the beneficial compounds to infuse into the water. This process not only amplifies the scent but also makes the nutrients more bioavailable for various uses.”
The experts add: “Orange peels contain natural antimicrobial agents that can help to disinfect surfaces and purify the air. The essential oils, particularly limonene, have been shown to inhibit the growth of bacteria and fungi, making them an effective natural cleaning agent.”
Not only does orange peel help purify the air in your home, it can also give your immune system a boost as the peel is rich in antioxidants and vitamin C, so even just inhaling the steam can support your respiratory health.
Alternatively, you can boil orange peel with some water to make an immune-boosting tea which can help to fend off colds and coughs in winter.
Experts at NetMeds said: “Boiled orange peels release their natural oils, which contain antioxidants, vitamin C, and other vital nutrients. Drinking this infused water or tea made from boiled orange peels can aid digestion, improve immunity, and offer anti-inflammatory benefits. Some believe it also helps in reducing cholesterol and fighting respiratory issues like colds and coughs.”
To make an orange peel tea, it’s recommended that you first wash one orange and remove the peel, before chopping it into smaller pieces.
Add two cups of water to a pan and then add in your chopped peel, along with any other ingredients like ginger, cinnamon or honey for extra flavour, and then allow the mixture to simmer for around 10 minutes. Remove the pan from the heat and allow the tea to steep for another few minutes, then strain the liquid into a mug to enjoy.
Experts at Crystal Therapy added: “Orange peel tea is rich in vitamin C, which is essential for a healthy immune system. Vitamin C helps to stimulate the production of white blood cells, which are responsible for fighting off infections and diseases. Drinking orange peel tea can help to boost your body’s natural defenses and keep you healthy.”