If you’re used to throwing away orange peels after enjoying the juicy fruit, you might want to reconsider. These vibrant peels are more than just compost material; they’re full of potential uses that can benefit your home, your health, and your garden. Here’s why you should start saving those orange peels and how to put them to good use.
Why store orange peels?
Orange peels are rich in nutrients and essential oils. They contain higher amounts of certain vitamins than the fruit itself, particularly vitamin C and fiber. The peels also contain potent, natural oils that are both fragrant and beneficial, making them a versatile addition to many household practices.
Creative uses for orange peels:
1. Natural Air Freshener
: Orange peels can naturally deodorize and freshen the air in your home. Simply place dried orange peels in small bags or directly into bowls around your home. The peels emit a fresh citrus scent that’s not only pleasant but can also help neutralize odors.
2. Homemade cleaner
The oils in orange peels are excellent at cutting through grease and stains. Make a natural cleaning spray by filling a jar with orange peels and then covering them with white vinegar. Let the mixture sit for a few weeks, strain it, and pour the liquid into a spray bottle. Use it as an all-purpose cleaner for surfaces in your kitchen and bathroom.
3. Insect Repellent:
Orange peels contain compounds that many pests find unpleasant. Rub orange peels directly onto areas of skin you want to protect, or place the peels around entry points in your home to keep ants, mosquitoes, and other pests away.
4. Garden Fertilizer
: Chop up orange peels and bury them in your garden soil. As they decompose, they not only add nutrients to the soil but also help improve its structure. This can be especially beneficial for maintaining healthy plant growth.
5. Potpourri Additive:
Dry your orange peels and mix them with other spices and essential oils to make a homemade potpourri. This can add a lovely, natural scent to your home without the chemicals found in commercial products.
6. Skin-Lightening Scrub:
Grind dried orange peels into a powder and mix them with some yogurt or honey to make a natural facial scrub. This mixture can help brighten your skin and provide gentle exfoliation.
Conclusion:
From freshening the air to enriching your garden, orange peels are a surprisingly effective resource that can enhance many areas of your daily life. By finding new uses for things that would otherwise be waste, you’re not only practicing sustainability but also utilizing natural, chemical-free ways to care for your home and body. So, the next time you enjoy an orange, think twice before throwing away the peel!
