Did you know that orange peels can help you save money and keep your home clean? From December to February, oranges are not only packed with Vitamin C but also have strong antioxidant properties and can help reduce stress. They also stimulate brain activity, aid in detoxifying the body, and promote healthy digestion. Additionally, oranges contain essential minerals like magnesium and potassium, which are good for heart health and blood circulation.
Orange Peels for Multiple Uses
Apart from their health benefits, orange peels can be used in various beauty treatments for the body, face, and hair, all thanks to their diverse properties. They can also be a handy tool for household cleaning, especially because of the natural citric acid present in the peels.
Transforming Orange Peels into a Cleaning Agent
Here’s a simple way to turn orange peels into a natural cleaning agent:
- Peel the Orange: Start by peeling the orange. You can either slice the knife horizontally to get a single peel strip or cut off both ends of the orange, create space between the peel and pulp with a spoon, and then make a vertical cut to get an intact peel.
- Prepare the Peels: Collect the orange peels in a container or plastic bag. It’s best to use organic oranges to avoid any pesticide residues.
- Soak the Peels: Fill a plastic bottle with water and add the orange peels to it. Let the peels soak in the water for a few days, ideally, at least a week. This will help infuse the water with the citrus properties of the peels.
- Strain the Solution: After the peels have soaked in the water for a while, strain the solution. You can use a mesh strainer or a coffee filter to remove any leftover pulp or debris.
- Cleaning with Orange Peel Water: Now, you have a natural and fragrant cleaning agent made from orange peels. This solution can be used in various ways for household cleaning. Some common uses include:
- All-Purpose Cleaner: Mix the orange peel water with equal parts vinegar to create a powerful all-purpose cleaner. It works well on countertops, sinks, and other surfaces.
- Glass Cleaner: Mix the orange peel water with vinegar and water in equal parts to create a streak-free glass cleaner.
- Air Freshener: You can use the orange peel water as an air freshener by pouring it into a spray bottle. Spritz it around your home for a fresh and citrusy scent.
- Dishwashing Liquid: Add a small amount of the orange peel water to your dish soap for an extra boost in cleaning power.
Conclusion
Who knew that orange peels could be so useful? Not only do they provide numerous health benefits, but they can also be transformed into an effective and natural cleaning agent. So, the next time you enjoy an orange, don’t throw away the peel. Instead, use it to save money and keep your home smelling fresh and clean.
