Did you know that soaking orange peels in a plastic bottle of water can help you save a significant amount of money? Oranges, mostly available from December to February, are not only rich in Vitamin C but also possess strong antioxidant properties and have a calming effect on stress. They stimulate brain activity, aid in detoxifying the body, and help with digestion. Oranges are also packed with magnesium and potassium, essential for heart muscle functions and smooth blood circulation.
Orange Peels for Various Uses
Beyond their health benefits, oranges can be used in various beauty treatments for body, face, and hair, thanks to their diverse properties. They can also be utilized for cleaning, particularly the peels which contain citric acid.
Orange Peels for Household Cleaning
The citric acid in orange peels makes them an excellent option for household cleaning. Here’s how to transform orange peels into a cleaning agent:
Peel the Orange: There are several methods to peel an orange efficiently, either by sliding the knife horizontally to get a single peel strip or by cutting off both ends of the orange, creating space between the peel and pulp with a spoon, and then making a vertical cut to get an intact peel.
Prepare the Peels.
Prepare the Peels: After peeling the orange, wash the peels with water and salt to remove any residue of parasites or pesticides. Then, cut the peel into strips or as desired.
Make the Cleaner: Place the orange peels in a clean plastic bottle, filling it halfway. Add a teaspoon of baking soda and water, leaving some space at the top of the bottle for fermentation.
Fermentation Process: Let the solution ferment in a dry place away from direct light for about 3 days. Open the cap daily to release gases. Once ready, the orange solution can be used for washing dishes and cleaning kitchen surfaces, thanks to the combination of citric acid and baking soda.