Let us introduce a delightful twist to your daily tea routine with the vibrant and nutritious world of fruit peel teas! Often overlooked and discarded, fruit peels are packed with an abundance of vitamins, antioxidants, and beneficial compounds that offer a myriad of health benefits. Don't let those fruit peels go to waste; instead, harness their potential to brew flavourful and health-enhancing teas.
Health benefits
Fruit peel teas offer various health benefits due to their rich nutritional content and bioactive compounds. Peels of many fruits contain antioxidants such as flavonoids, polyphenols, and vitamin C, which help neutralize harmful free radicals in the body, reducing oxidative stress and lowering the risk of chronic diseases.
Certain compounds found in fruit peels have anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce inflammation in the body and alleviate symptoms of inflammatory conditions like arthritis and inflammatory bowel diseases.The dietary fiber present in peels and rinds supports digestive health by promoting regular bowel movements, preventing constipation, and supporting a healthy gut microbiome.
Some fruit peels, such as citrus peels, contain bioactive compounds that may help regulate blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity, making them beneficial for individuals with diabetes or those at risk of developing the condition. The fiber content in fruit peels can help promote feelings of fullness and satiety, potentially aiding in weight management and appetite control when included as part of a balanced diet.
Recipes
Citrus peel tea:
Ingredients: Peels from oranges, lemons, or grapefruits
Instructions: Wash the fruit peels thoroughly and let them dry. Cut the peels into small pieces and boil them in water for 10-15 minutes. Strain the liquid and enjoy hot or cold. Optionally, add honey or spices like cinnamon for flavour.
Apple peel tea:
Ingredients: Peels from apples
Instructions: Wash the apple peels and let them dry. Boil the peels in water for 15-20 minutes. Strain the liquid and add a squeeze of lemon juice for extra flavor. Sweeten with honey if desired.
Pineapple peel tea:
Ingredients: Peels from pineapples
Instructions: Wash the pineapple peels and cut them into smaller pieces. Boil the peels in water for 20-30 minutes. Strain the liquid and let it cool slightly before serving. Optionally, add a splash of coconut milk for a tropical twist.
Watermelon rind tea:
Ingredients: Rind from watermelon
Instructions: Wash the watermelon rind thoroughly and chop it into small pieces. Boil the rind in water for 20-30 minutes. Strain the liquid and let it cool. Serve over ice with a sprig of mint for a refreshing drink.
Mango peel tea:
Ingredients: Peels from mangoes
Instructions: Wash the mango peels and let them dry. Cut the peels into smaller pieces and boil them in water for 10-15 minutes. Strain the liquid and sweeten with honey or agave syrup if desired. Serve hot or cold.
NOTE: When using store-brought fruits, always ensure that the peels and rinds are pesticide, wax and chemical free before making the teas.
