The Uses and Clever Applications of Orange Peel: A Helpful Hand in Everyday Life

Orange peel is the outer rind of the orange fruit. Many people toss it away right after peeling an orange, but it is actually an underestimated treasure. Orange peel has a distinctive citrus fragrance and contains components such as volatile oils and hesperidin. After washing and drying, it can be stored long-term and used whenever needed.

In terms of food and drink, the most common uses of orange peel are steeping it in water and adding it to dishes. Dried orange peel has a faint fruity aroma when brewed, and many people like to pair it with black tea or green tea; adding a small piece when stewing meat or cooking congee can also remove odors, cut greasiness, and add flavor. Orange peel that has been stored for many years and fully aged is what everyone knows as chenpi (aged tangerine peel). Traditionally it is believed to regulate qi and strengthen the spleen, and to dry dampness and resolve phlegm, and it is often used in soups and everyday meals.

In daily life, orange peel also has many clever uses. Its fresh scent can help reduce odors when placed in the refrigerator, shoe cabinet, or car; when dried and placed in storage corners, it is also commonly used in folk practice to prevent moisture and repel insects. In addition, orange peel can be made into candied orange peel, jam, and other small snacks, which are rich in fruity aroma and appetite-stimulating.

One thing to keep in mind is that the surface of fresh orange peel may retain pesticides or preservatives, so it is not recommended to peel it and steep it directly for drinking. It should first be thoroughly washed with clean water, then dried or left to sit for a period before use. People with weak digestion should also drink orange peel water in moderation. If you feel unwell, you should still seek medical attention promptly, and orange peel water should not be treated as a cure for illness.