Mandarin peel holds a significant place in healthy living due to its rich content of Vitamin C, calcium, Vitamin B6, and beta-carotene, making it a powerhouse of antioxidants. Due to its high nutritional value, it is often used as a natural supplement. From aiding digestive health to supporting liver functions, the benefits of mandarin peel are manifold and warrant a detailed examination.
Benefits of Mandarin Peel
Often discarded, the peel of a mandarin is nutritionally beneficial and can have positive effects on health. It is particularly noted for its high amounts of Vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants, which help strengthen the immune system.
The benefits of mandarin peel include:
- Mandarin peel contains more antioxidants than the fruit itself, which can help prevent the formation of cancerous tumors.
- Rich in Vitamin C, it reduces acne and pimples on the skin and supports a brighter, more youthful appearance.
- The dietary fiber it contains supports gastrointestinal health.
- It prevents stomach ailments and can help you feel full throughout the day.
- Being alkaline-rich, it effectively detoxifies the body, aiding in the removal of unnecessary toxins.
- It moisturizes the scalp and prevents itching, leading to healthy, shiny, and dandruff-free hair.
- It is beneficial against athlete’s foot.
- Rich in minerals such as calcium, magnesium, and potassium, it helps strengthen bones. It also contains zinc, copper, and phosphorus which prevent bone fractures.
- The Vitamin A in the peel supports eye health and helps prevent eye diseases. Its Vitamin C content can prevent cataract formation and may reduce the risk of age-related macular degeneration.
Additionally, oil extracted from the peel can reduce infections, pain, and swelling. The peel’s ability to fight bacteria also makes it protective against many diseases. Consuming it appropriately can help harness these effects.
Benefits of Mandarin Peel Tea
Mandarin peel is a significant part of the fruit from the citrus family. Normally thrown away after peeling, this part can be used to prepare herbal tea.
Particularly popular during the winter months, the benefits of mandarin peel tea include:
- Rich in Vitamin C, it alleviates cough and nasal congestion experienced in winter.
- When consumed mindfully, it can help shorten the duration of a cold.
- It is effective in reducing edema.
- Its stress-relieving properties can help alleviate anxiety and insomnia.
- High in antioxidants, it promotes detoxification in the body.
- It can alleviate indigestion and pain in the stomach.
- It helps balance blood sugar levels.
- Consumed before meals, it can speed up the metabolism and aid in weight loss.
- It revitalizes and rejuvenates the skin.
- It strengthens the body against seasonal ailments like flu and colds.
- Regular consumption can regulate blood cholesterol levels and control bad cholesterol.
Mandarin peel tea, when consumed responsibly, can be effective. Drinking one cup a day, especially during the cold months, helps keep the body resilient against colds.
How to Make Mandarin Peel Tea?
Making mandarin peel tea is quite simple and can be prepared in just a few minutes. First, the fresh mandarin peels need to be dried. Since the inner part of the peel can be bitter, it should be cleaned with a knife before coming into contact with water.
It is also important to ensure that the mandarin peels used are organically grown without the use of pesticides. The required ingredients include two mandarin peels and 1.5 cups of drinking water.
Here’s the recipe for making mandarin peel tea:
- Place 1.5 cups of clean drinking water in a pot and bring it to a boil.
- Add the cleaned and white-part-removed peels into the boiling water and let them steep for 5 minutes.
- Strain the brewed mixture with a sieve before consumption.
- Optionally, honey, lemon, cinnamon, or ginger can be added for flavor.
Can You Eat Mandarin Peel?
Generally, eating mandarin peel is not preferred. However, after cleaning the peel, it can be consumed in moderate amounts. It can also be dried and consumed afterward. Dried mandarin peel can be ground into a powder and added to dishes or salads. Thus, mandarin peel can be eaten directly or used in various forms as a food ingredient.
What Are the Side Effects of Mandarin Peel?
Although mandarin peel has many benefits, it is important to consider some potential side effects, especially if consumed in large quantities. It can be harmful to people with allergies or chronic conditions.
Excessive consumption of mandarin peel can overwork the digestive system, leading to digestive issues such as nausea and vomiting. To prevent unwanted effects, it is advised to consume no more than one cup of the tea per day.
Benefits of Dried Mandarin Peel
The benefits of dried mandarin peel are numerous. Rich in flavonoids and Vitamin C, its consumption prevents damage to body cells. Additionally, the valuable components it contains can help control bad cholesterol and support heart health.
Dried mandarin peel also imparts a citrus aroma to herbal teas, enhancing their effects. The benefits of dried mandarin peel can also be utilized in powdered form, as the powder can be added to dishes.
Benefits of Mandarin Peel for Skin
Mandarin peel is highly beneficial for skin health as well. It provides a more vibrant appearance thanks to its nutrients and antioxidants.
Other benefits of mandarin peel for the skin include:
- It eliminates free radicals from the skin and can help slow down the signs of aging.
- The acids contained in the peel cleanse the skin and aid in the removal of pimples.
- It helps balance skin tone and supports a more even appearance through its minerals and vitamins.
- Its acidic nature has a lightening effect on dark spots and also cleanses the skin of oil, dirt, and dead skin cells.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Benefits of Mandarin Peel
Does Mandarin Peel Help with Weight Loss?
Mandarin peel does not directly cause weight loss. However, tea made from the peels can facilitate digestion and has a diuretic effect, which can support those in the process of losing weight. Still, exercise and healthy eating are the most important factors for weight loss.
How is Mandarin Peel Used?
Mandarin peel can be used in many different ways. It is most commonly brewed in hot water to make tea. Mandarin peel jam, which is rich in vitamins and minerals, is also a popular choice.
Additionally, it can be dried and powdered to enhance the flavor of dishes. The peels can also be boiled to eliminate bad odors in the home and can be used to relieve nasal congestion.
How to Dry Mandarin Peel at Home?
There are several methods for drying mandarin peel at home. After washing and cleaning the inner parts, cut the peels into thin slices. They can then be placed in a well-ventilated area on a balcony. During the sunny and dry summer months, they can dry within a few days.
Alternatively, they can be dried in an oven at a low temperature in a few hours. They can also be dried on radiators or stoves that emit heat. Once dried, the mandarin peels should be stored in an airtight container in a cool, dry place.
