Orange peels have about four times more health benefits than the actual orange fruit

It may surprise you that orange peels have about four times more health benefits than the actual orange fruit that we eat. Orange peels contain flavonoids – like polymethoxyflavones (PMFs) and hesperidin – and other phytochemicals that are highly beneficial for your health.

Flavonoids are antioxidant compounds that help prevent chronic diseases such as cancer and heart diseases. It also contains higher amounts of certain nutrients. For example, 3.5 ounces of orange peel provides 136 mg of Vitamin C.

The reason that people save certain fruit rinds is that they are chock full of nutrients and healthy compounds. Probably the most popular and salubrious of these are called antioxidants, which are found in higher concentrations in the rind. 

These molecules are famous for fighting off free radicals, which can damage healthy cell and may even cause early aging and certain kinds of cancer.

How do you eat the peels of tangerines, oranges and other citrus fruits? The easiest way to consume them is to make a powder. This can be done by simply drying out the peels, either in the air or with a food dehydrator. After the rinds are dry, you can grind them up in a standard coffee grinder. 

The powder can then be stored in the refrigerator, which will preserve the healthy properties. And though it won't taste anything like tangerines or other fruits that it came from the powder can then be added to juices and will go virtually undetected. All you will experience are the positive health benefits.

The rinds of tangerines and oranges can also be added to salads for a boost of flavor and texture. To prepare the peels for salads you will need to use a cheese grater. This is also the preferred method if you are interested in adding them to soups or even to marinades for meat.

Lastly, you can boil the rinds of tangerines to create a flavorful drink. As we mentioned, the previous methods do their best to conceal the flavor and the taste of tangerines. 

But when they are boiled, much of that is released. The result is either a nice hot drink or a chilled libation. Probably the most popular way to enjoy boiled tangerine rinds is to add them to tea. 

The taste will compliment normal, unflavored tea and will also confer the many natural healthy benefits. 

It is also possible to add them to an alcoholic beverage like vodka or gin. Just make certain that the rinds are still hot when you drop them in your drink or they will be virtually flavorless.

https://blog.pittmandavis.com/health-benefits-of-tangerine-rinds/