Introduction – Maximizing The Utility Of Your Fruits
Today we’ll talk about the intersection of two key topics at ShrinkThatFootprint: sustainable garden farming and zero waste. Maximizing the use of your home garden farm oranges is one way to achieve both aims – reducing carbon emissions by not having to transport food and getting more use of what might be a waste product to a lot of people. So… what can I do with orange peels??
9 Ideas For What To Do With Orange Peels
Orange peels are a great resource for creating your own homemade cleaning products and cosmetics. They contain phenolic antioxidants that have anti-inflammatory properties, as well as alpha hydroxy acids or AHAs that can exfoliate the skin and leave it looking vibrant and fresh. Some possible uses for orange peels include:
1. Orange Peels for Cleaning
Orange peels have the perfect concentration of limonene and other citrus oils that can be used to remove stains and grime from surfaces around your home. You can make your own homemade orange peel cleaner by boiling orange peels in water. This natural solution is effective for cleaning kitchen and bathroom surfaces, as well as fruits and vegetables.
2. Orange Peels for Exfoliation
The AHA contained in orange peels can help gently exfoliate the skin, revealing new layers of healthy skin underneath. Orange peels have a high concentration of citric acid, which acts as an effective exfoliant when applied to the face or body. You can make your own homemade facial scrub using ground up orange peels and a few other simple ingredients such as honey, olive oil, and brown sugar.
3. Orange Peels for Health Supplements
Orange peels contain high levels of phenolic antioxidants, which have been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties. Some people also drink orange peels as a natural source of vitamin C and fiber.
You can make your own homemade supplements by drying out orange peels, grinding them up into a fine powder, and adding the powder to smoothies or juices. These supplements may help promote better overall health and well-being.
4. Orange Peels Smelling Candles
You can also use orange peels to make your own scented candles. Simply dry out the peels and then grind them up into a fine powder. You can then mix the powdered orange peel with beeswax or another type of candle wax, as well as any essential oils or fragrances that you prefer. Then, simply pour the mixture into a glass container and allow it to harden before lighting your new natural candle!
5. Orange Peels Garbage Disposal Cleaners
Orange peels can also be used to help clean out your garbage disposal. Simply drop a few orange peels down the drain or into the garbage disposal, and then run cold water over them for several seconds.
This will help remove any food particles or grease that may be stuck in your drain, leaving it smelling fresh and clean. These are natural and effective way to keep your kitchen appliances running smoothly!
6. Orange Peels For Stove Cleaning
Orange peels are also great for cleaning your kitchen stove. Simply sprinkle a few orange peels on top of the hot stove, and then spray them with some vinegar or lemon juice.
Let the mixture sit for a few minutes, and then wipe away any dirt, stains, or food particles using a paper towel. With just a few simple ingredients and some easy steps, you can keep your kitchen looking spotless and smelling fresh!
7. Orange Peels For Lip Butter
Orange peels can also be used to make your own homemade lip butter. Simply grind up a few dried orange peels, and then mix the powder with some petroleum jelly or coconut oil.
You can add in other ingredients, such as honey or vitamin E oil, to help moisturize and nourish your lips. Massage a small amount of the homemade lip butter onto your lips as needed for soft, smooth, and beautifully-scented lips!
8. Orange Peels To Protect Your Pets
Orange peels can also be used to help protect your pets from harmful insects. Simply rub dried orange peels around areas where ants or other pests are commonly seen, such as along window sills, in doorways, and around the outside of your home.
The citrus oils contained in orange peels will naturally repel these unwanted insects without the use of harsh chemicals or pesticides. So why wait? Protect your furry friends today with this easy and natural solution!
9. Orange Peels For Body Scrub
Last but not least, orange peels can also be used to make your own homemade body scrub. Simply mix ground up orange peels with olive oil, brown sugar, and a few drops of your favorite essential oil or fragrance.
Gently massage the mixture onto your skin in circular motions, and then rinse off with warm water. Not only will this natural body scrub leave you feeling refreshed and invigorated, but it will also help exfoliate your skin and give it a healthy glow.
With so many amazing benefits, it’s no wonder that orange peels are such a popular choice for many DIY beauty products.
10. Compost The Orange Peels
Finally, composting is a standout idea for utilizing orange peels in a sustainable way. Rich in nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorous, and potassium, orange peels are a valuable addition to any compost pile, contributing to the creation of a fertile soil amendment that can boost the growth of your plants.
Simply cut or tear the peels into small pieces to speed up their decomposition process, then toss them into your compost bin. They will break down over time and serve to enhance the quality of your compost mix. Follow many of our guides on composting on ShrinkThatFootprint.
The citrusy scent of oranges is known to deter certain pests, providing an added benefit to your composting efforts. It’s a brilliant way to repurpose orange peels, turning what would otherwise be waste into a natural resource for your garden.
Orange Peels Contain Natural Chemicals
Oranges come in all different shapes and sizes, but they typically have a thick skin that protects their fleshy interior from damage and from drying out. They also contain phenolic antioxidants that are the basis for many commercial health supplements and cosmetic products, such as face masks.
The orange peel potentially contains alpha hydroxy acid or AHA, which is beneficial in exfoliating the skin to reveal new skin underneath. Not only can you make your own cosmetics with orange peels, but also your own cleaning supplies as well.
For instance, you can make your own homemade orange peel cleaner by boiling orange peels in water. This is a great and natural way to clean your kitchen and bathroom surfaces, as the citrus oil in the orange peels helps remove tough stains, grime, and dirt.
You can even use this mixture to wash your fruits and vegetables, so that they are free of any pesticides or harmful chemicals used in commercial farming.
How Long Can You Keep Orange Peels?
The shelf life of orange peels depends on a number of factors, including the storage conditions and whether or not they have been dried. In general, properly stored orange peels can be kept for up to 1 year.
To maximize the shelf life of your orange peels, make sure to store them in an airtight container in a cool, dry place. You should also try to use them as soon as possible after purchasing them in order to get the most fresh and flavorful results. With these simple tips in mind, you can keep your orange peels nice and fresh for even longer!
Summing Up – What Can I Do With Orange Peels
In conclusion, there are a wide variety of amazing uses and benefits for orange peels. From cooking and beauty to household cleaning and pest control, the options really are endless when it comes to this powerful little food item.
Whether you’re just looking for some new recipe ideas or need help keeping your home clean and fresh-smelling, incorporating orange peels into your day-to-day life is sure to make a big difference! So why wait? Start trying out these awesome orange peel uses today, and discover what this versatile fruit has in store for you!