Orange is a delicious juicy fruit commonly known as “Santra” and “Narangi”. The fruit is a rich source of vitamin C which makes it a powerful immune booster.
Orange is packed with various essential nutrients and a high fiber content that helps improve the energy levels. The daily consumption of 1-2 cups of Orange juice before breakfast improves digestion. The antioxidant activity of Orange helps protect against certain problems such as liver disease, asthma and cholesterol levels.
Applying Orange juice on the scalp helps improves hair growth and delays the greying of hair. It also prevents dandruff due to its antiviral property. Orange peel or essential oil helps delay skin ageing due to its antioxidant property. It keeps the skin moisturized, softens it and has a cleansing effect on oily skin. It also reduces inflammation in the affected area because of its anti-inflammatory property.
Excessive consumption of Oranges may cause abdominal discomfort and it may also lead to heartburn[2-6][16].

What are the synonyms of Orange?

Citrus reticulata, Kamla lebu, Narangi, Santra Kittle, Kamala, Koorg kudagu orange, Kamalapandu, Sumthira, Sohniamtra, Santara, Naranga, Nagarariga, Tvaksugandha, Mukhapriya, Tangerine[1][2].

What is the source of Orange?

Plant Based

Benefits of Orange

Modern Science View

Orange might be beneficial in the management of cancer. Lutein and β-cryptoxanthin in Orange have antioxidant, immunomodulatory and anticancer properties. Orange induces apoptosis in cancerous cells and protects the normal cells. Thus, consuming Orange reduces the risk of breast cancer, colon cancer, cervical cancer, lung cancer and skin tumor formation[7][12].

Modern Science View

Orange might be beneficial in the management of hepatitis C. Orange has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties. Orange helps to reduce inflammation in patients suffering from hepatitis C virus infection. Naringin and hesperidin in Orange reduce the synthesis and release of lipids in liver. Orange also reduces the level of elevated liver enzymes in patients with hepatitis C virus infection[7][16].

Modern Science View

Orange might be beneficial in the management of irritable bowel syndrome(IBS). Orange is a rich source of fibers. Orange adds bulk to the stool and helps in their easy passage[7][15].

Ayurvedic View

Orange helps to control the symptoms of Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). According to Ayurveda, Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is also known as Grahani. Grahani is caused by an imbalance of Pachak Agni (digestive fire). Orange help to improve Pachak Agni (digestive fire) due to its Ushna (hot) potency. This helps control the symptoms of IBS.
Tip:
1. Take 1-2 cup fresh Orange juice.
2. Add water and have it with breakfast.

Modern Science View

Orange might be beneficial in the management of asthma. Orange has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Orange contains flavonoids that decrease the frequency of asthma. Orange also reduces wheezing associated with asthma[7][13].

Ayurvedic View

Orange helps to control the symptoms of asthma and gives relief in case of breathlessness. According to Ayurveda, the main doshas involved in asthma are Vata and Kapha. The vitiated ‘Vata’ combines with deranged ‘Kapha dosha’ in the lungs causing obstruction in the respiratory passage. This results in difficulty in breathing. This condition is known as Swas Roga (Asthma). Taking Orange helps to calm Vata-Kapha dosha, remove excess mucus from the lungs and give relief from the symptoms of asthma. This is due to the Ushna (hot) potency of Orange.
Tip:
1. Take 1-2 cup fresh Orange juice.
2. Add water and have it with breakfast.

Modern Science View

Not enough evidence is available to support the role of Orange in indigestion[7].

Ayurvedic View

Indigestion means the state of incomplete process of digestion. The main reason for indigestion is Agnimandya (weak digestive fire). Taking Orange helps to improve digestive fire due to its Ushna (hot) nature. It helps to correct indigestion and digest food easily.
Tip:
1. Take 1-2 cup fresh Orange juice.
2. Add water and have it with breakfast.

Modern Science View

Orange might be beneficial to reduce the risk of atherosclerosis. Orange is a rich source of vitamin C. Vitamin C has strong antioxidant activity. It prevents lipid peroxidation and plaque deposition in the blood vessels[7][14].

How effective is Orange?

Insufficient evidence

Asthma, Atherosclerosis (plaque deposition inside the arteries), Cancer, Cancer of colon and rectum, Indigestion, Irritable bowel syndrome, Liver disease

FAQs about Orange benefits

What are the health benefits of eating Oranges during pregnancy?

How can Orange oil kill fleas?

What are the benefits of drinking blood Orange juice?

Is Orange beneficial for weight loss?

Does Orange juice promote skin whitening?

What are the uses and benefits of Orange essential oil?

Precautions when using Orange

Advice from Experts

Ayurvedic View

Orange should be avoided if you have acid reflux due to its Amla (sour) taste.

Modern Science View

Use Orange cautiously if you have any gastrointestinal disorders as Oranges have been associated with intestinal obstructions.

Ayurvedic View

Orange should be avoided if you have acid reflux or indigestion problems due to its Amla (sour) taste.

Breastfeeding

Modern Science View

Consult your doctor while taking Oranges during Breastfeeding[12].

Other Interaction

Modern Science View

1. Orange may increase the absorption of anti-inflammatory medicines. So it is generally advisable to consult your doctor while taking Orange along with anti-inflammatory medicines[12].

2. Orange may increase the absorption of anti-hyperlipidemic medicines. So it is generally advisable to consult your doctor while taking Orange along with anti-hyperlipidemic medicines[12].

3. Orange may decrease the absorption of antibiotics. So it is generally advisable to consult your doctor while taking Orange along with antibiotics[12].

4. Orange may have an additive effect with anti-cancer medicines. So it is generally advisable to consult your doctor while taking Orange with anti-cancer medicines[12].

Pregnancy

Modern Science View

Consult your doctor while taking Oranges during Pregnancy[12].

Side Effects

Modern Science View

Bowel obstruction[12].

FAQs about Orange precautions

Is eating Orange seeds harmful?

Is Orange acidic?

Is Orange bad for diabetes?

Recommended Dosage of Orange

Orange Juice - 1-2 cup a day or as per your requirement.
Orange Candy - 4-8 candies a day or as per your requirement.

How to use Orange

1. Orange Raw fruit
a. Take Orange fruits.
b. Peel off properly and eat.
c. You can enjoy them preferably in the breakfast or after 3-4 hours of meals.

2. Orange Juice
a. Peel of the Orange fruit and put it in the juicer.
b. Separate the pulp from the juice using a strainer.
c. Drink it preferably in the breakfast or after 3-4 hours of meals.

3. Orange Candy
You can eat Orange candies as per your liking and requirement.

Benefits of Orange

FAQs about Orange benefits

Does Orange have a role in skin aging?

What are the Health Benefits of Orange?

What are the benefits of Oranges for hair and skin?

1. Acne and Pimples
Orange or its peel gives good result in case of skin problems like acne or pimples. According to Ayurveda, an aggravation of Kapha leads to an increased sebum production and clogging of pores. This results in the formation of both white and blackheads. Another factor, an aggravation of Pitta causes red papules (bumps) and inflammation with pus. Applying Orange or its peel paste on the affected area helps to reduce acne or pimples. This is because of its Kapha balancing property. It also helps to remove excess oil and reduce inflammation due to its Kashaya (astringent) nature.
Tip:
a. Orange Peel powder face mask
b. Take 1/2-1 teaspoon Orange peel powder.
c. Mix with yogurt in the same quantity to make a thick paste.
d. Apply it on the affected area and wait for 20-30 minutes.
e. Wash it with cold water.
f. Repeat twice a week for a smooth and acne free skin.
OR
Orange Juice
a. Make a mixture of 2-3 teaspoon of fresh Orange juice with 1 -2 teaspoon honey.
b. Apply it on your face.
c. Wash it off after 15 minutes with plain water.
d. Repeat twice a week for a smooth and acne free skin.

2. Hair loss
Orange or its juice helps to control hair fall and promote hair growth when applied to the scalp. This is because hair fall is mainly due to an aggravated Vata dosha in the body. Orange or its juice acts on hair fall by balancing Vata dosha. It also promotes hair growth and removes excessive dryness. This is due to its Snigdha (oily) and Ropan (healing) properties.
Tip
a. Take 1-2 tablespoon Orange juice or as per your requirement.
b. Add the same quantity of water.
c. Apply it on the scalp as well as on hair.
d. Wash it after 20-30 minutes with any mild shampoo.
e. Repeat twice a week to control hair fall and to condition hair.

Precautions when using Orange

Advice from Experts

Ayurvedic View

Orange fruit paste, juice and peel powder should be used with milk or honey if your skin is hypersensitive to Amla (sour) nature.

Side Effects

Modern Science View

Skin rashes[11].

FAQs about Orange precautions

Is orange peel toxic?

Is Orange peel safe for skin?

Recommended Dosage of Orange

Orange Powder - ½ - 1 teaspoon or as per your requirement.
Orange Oil - 4-5 drops or as per your requirement.

How to use Orange

1. Orange Bark Powder
a. Take ½ - 1 teaspoon of Orange bark powder.
b. Add honey to it.
c. Apply evenly in the affected skin.
d. Let it sit for 7-10 minutes.
e. Wash with tap water.
f. Use this remedy 2-3 times a week to get rid of skin infections.

2. Orange peel powder
a. Take ½ - 1 teaspoon of Orange peel powder.
b. Add rose water to it.
c. Apply evenly in the affected skin.
d. Let it sit for 7-10 minutes.
e. Wash with tap water.
f. Use this remedy 2-3 times a week to get rid of acne and blemishes.

3. Orange essential oil
a. Take 4-5 drops of Orange essential oil.
b. Add coconut oil to it.
c. Gently massage on the affected area.
d. Use this remedy once a day to get rid of itching and ringworm.

Frequently asked questions

Modern Science View

Oranges are rich in carbohydrates, amino acids, flavonoids, tannins, phenolic derivatives and steroids and are responsible for its pharmacological properties[2].

Modern Science View

Yes, Oranges can be consumed on an empty stomach. This is because fruits that contain citric acid might alter the food in the stomach when taken after meals. So it is generally advised to consume it before or 3-4 hours after meals.

Modern Science View

You can have 2-3 Oranges in a day. However it is generally advisable to avoid them in the evening and in case you have a sore throat, cough and cold. Oranges are also high in calories due to sugar content so monitor the quantity.

Modern Science View

It is often observed that approximately 9 grams of sugar is there in 100 grams of Oranges. So, monitor your Orange consumption if you have diabetes or if you are on a diet.

Modern Science View

Orange peel oil is very useful and can be extracted easily with the help of orange peels.
Tip:
1. Peel of the Orange.
2. Grate the peel properly.
3. Let it dry for 2-3 days.
4. Now put the dried grated orange peel into the vinegar or alcohol.
5. Let it stand for 2-3 days.
6. The oil will be diffused out into the alcoholic or acidic medium.

Modern Science View

The constituent present in the Orange that is responsible for whitening of teeth is d-limonene.
Tips:
1. Peel the Orange.
2. Gently rub the white portion of the peel onto the teeth.
3. Follow it by regular brushing of the teeth.

Modern Science View

Eating Orange seeds is not harmful in fact it will add fibre to your diet when chewed properly. As well as they will be easily removed from the body as you defecate.

Modern Science View

Yes, Orange is acidic in nature has a high quantity of Citric acid into it. The pH of the Orange also comes around 3.5. However this makes it a good antioxidant[11].

Modern Science View

Although Orange contains good amount of citric acid and has good antioxidant properties, it contains high amount of sugar as compared to other fruits. So it is advisable to monitor your blood sugar level while taking Oranges if you are diabetic[11].

Modern Science View

Eating Oranges during pregnancy is good as it has a number of benefits. High vitamin C content in Oranges helps in increased iron absorption in the body. Orange juice contains calcium which is good during pregnancy. Oranges are also rich in fiber due to which they help prevent constipation by adding bulk to the stool and making it easier to pass from the body. They also contain folic acid which helps in the growth of the baby and also prevent birth defect[19].

Modern Science View

Orange peel oil contains 90-95% limonene which has a lethal effect on fleas, fire ants and houseflies[20].

Modern Science View

Blood orange juice consumption effectively increases antioxidant and vitamin C concentrations in the body that help act against free radicals and inflammation. This increases the natural body defence system and thus improves the immunity[18].

Modern Science View

Yes Orange is beneficial for weight loss as it improves the lipid metabolism. It is also rich in fiber which improves digestion and thus helps in weight loss[21].

Ayurvedic View

Yes, Orange might be beneficial in weight loss because weight gain occurs due to weak or poor digestion that result in the formation and accumulation of toxins in the body in form of Ama or excessive fat. Orange helps to improve your digestion due to its Ushna (hot) property and prevent the formation or accumulation of toxins thereby helping in maintaining normal body weight.

Modern Science View

Enough scientific evidence is not available to support the role of Orange juice in skin whitening.

Ayurvedic View

Orange juice might not be that effective for skin, however, Orange peel paste can be applied on the skin for skin whitening due to its Kashaya (astringent) property. It helps to remove toxins from the skin leaving you with a naturally glowing skin.

Modern Science View

Orange essential oil is used in many products such as cosmetics, medical formulations, beverages and foods, as a flavoring agent as well as for aromatherapy. It is used as an ingredient in perfumes as well. It might be useful for acne and other skin problems due to its antibacterial property. Orange essential oil also has germicidal property making it a useful ingredient in various disinfectants. It also helps fight against free radical damage due to its antioxidant property which delays skin ageing[3][22].

Modern Science View

Yes, Oranges are good for high blood pressure as they contain a constituent (hesperidin) that helps relax narrowed blood vessels and lowers blood pressure. Oranges is rich in potassium which also helps in reducing blood pressure[10][20].

Ayurvedic View

Yes, Orange might be beneficial in lowering high blood pressure. High blood pressure is a condition which occurs due to an imbalance of Vata dosha in the body. Orange has Vata balancing property due to which it helps to manage the proper blood flow in blood vessels thereby managing high blood pressure.

Modern Science View

No orange peel is not toxic. However, the constituents present in the peel such as flavonoids, terpenoids, such as limonene and linalool and volatile oils makes it bitter and difficult to consume[9].

Modern Science View

Yes, Orange peel is actually safe for skin. In fact, it contains various skin benefits such as it helps to improve psoriasis, acne, blemishes and other skin infections[10].

Modern Science View

Yes, Orange has a role in skin aging. Aging is associated with sagging of skin and wrinkle formation. This is due to breakdown of collagen and elastin proteins. Orange has strong antioxidant and anti-enzymatic properties. Orange inhibits the collagenase and elastase enzymes that breakdown collagen and elastin. Thus, Orange prevents skin aging and wrinkle formation[18].

Modern Science View

1. Dandruff
2. Ringworm
3. Itching
4. Acne[8].

Modern Science View

Oranges have a wide range of benefits for skin and hair. The antioxidants present in Orange help fight free radicals and prevent cell damage thereby delaying aging. They have a high content of citric acid which is effective in getting rid of acne. They are also rich in vitamin C which helps treat dark spots and blemishes, stimulate hair growth and act against dandruff. Oranges are used in various forms in the cosmetics industry to tone, rejuvenate and clear blackheads. Orange peel also contains a certain constituent which is effective against psoriasis[9][17].
Tips for skin:
1. Take Orange peels and dry them in the sun
2. Grind them to prepare Orange peel powder.
3. Mix the above powder with milk and milk cream and apply it on your face for instant glow as well as to reduce dark spots and blemishes on your skin.

Tips for hair:
1. Take equal quantities of Orange juice and honey and mix them.
2. Apply this mixture on your shampooed hair.
3. Leave it for 5 to 10 minutes.
4. Wash with water and get healthy, shiny and beautiful hair.

Ayurvedic View

Orange is beneficial for certain skin problems like acne occurring due to an imbalance of Kapha dosha. Imbalance of Kapha results in excessive production of sebum that clogs the pores of the skin resulting in papule formation. Orange helps to manage this condition due to its Kapha balancing and Kashaya (astringent) properties. It helps prevent excessive sebum production and removes the collected dirt or dust particles resulting in healthy skin. Orange also promotes hair growth and removes excessive dryness from scalp and hair due to its Snigdha (oily) and Ropan (healing) properties.

References

Chapter 3.CITRUS RETICULATA BLANCO.REVIEW OF LITERATURE.46
Apraj VD, Pandita NS.Pharmacognostic and Phytochemical Evaluation of Citrus Reticulata blanco peel.IJPPR.2014;6(2):328-331.
Boughendjioua H, Boughendjioua Z.Chemical Composition and Biological Activity of Essential Oil of Mandarin (Citrus reticulata) Cultivated in Algeria.Int J Pharm Sci Rev Res.2017;44(1):179-184.
Choi HG.Natural Oriental Medicinal Composition For The Promotion Of Hair Growth And Method Of Preparing The Same. USA;US 7,771,759 B2.2010.
Garzaro M, Raimondo L, Pecorari G, et al.Palatability, digestibility and emotional pattern in 60 healthy volunteers after ingestion of an iced dessert presented in four different flavours: a subjective evaluation.J Biol Regul Homeost Agents.2012;26(2):237-243.
Wang Y, Qian J, Cao J, et al.Antioxidant Capacity, Anticancer Ability and Flavonoids Composition of 35 Citrus (Citrus reticulata Blanco) Varieties.Molecules.2017;22(114):1-20.
WebMD.Tangerine: Uses, Side effects, Doses, Interactions [Internet].Atlanta [last updated in 2016].
Erukainure OL,Ebuehi OAT, Choudhary MI.Orange Peel Extracts: Chemical Characterization, Antioxidant, Antioxidative Burst, and Phytotoxic Activities, Journal of Dietary Supplements.2016 13:5,585-594.
Alessio PA, Rossi A, Bene M.Efficacy of Orange Peel Extract in Psoriasis.Global Journal of Dermatology & Venereology. 2015;3:1-4.
Jamil N, Jabeen R, Khan M.et.al.Quantitative Assessment of Juice Content, Citric Acid and Sugar Content in Oranges, Sweet Lime, Lemon and Grapes Available in Fresh Fruit Market of Quetta City.IJBAS.2015;15(1):21-24.
Ulbricht CE.Natural Standard:Herb and Supplement Guide, An Evidence Based Reference.Elsevier;2010
Aghajanpour M, Nazer MR, Obeidavi Z, et al. Functional foods and their role in cancer prevention and health promotion: a comprehensive review. Am J Cancer Res.2017;7(4):740-769.
Hosseini B, Berthon BS, Wark P, et al. Effects of fruit and vegetable consumption on risk of asthma, wheezing and immune responses: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Nutrients.2017;9:341.
Moser MA, Chun OK. Vitamin C and heart health: A review based on findings from epidemiologic studies. Int. J. Mol. Sci.2016;17:1328.
Vries J, Birkett A, Hulshof T, et al. Effects of cereal, fruit and vegetable fibers on human fecal weight and transit time: A comprehensive review of intervention trials. Nutrients.2016;8:130.
Gonçalves D, Lima C, Ferreira P, et al. Orange juice as dietary source of antioxidants for patients with hepatitis C under antiviral therapy. Food And Nutrition Research.2017;61. 17. Sak K. Chemotherapy and dietary phytochemical agents. Chemotherapy Research and Practice.2012.
Apraj VD, Pandita NS. Evaluation of skin anti-aging potential of Citrus reticulata blanco peel. Pharmacognosy Res.2016;8(3):160–168.
Riso R, Visioli F, Gardana C. Effects of Blood Orange Juice Intake on Antioxidant Bioavailability and on Different Markers Related to Oxidative Stress .J. Agric. Food Chem.2005:53:941−947.
Nutrition.Nutrition During Pregnancy. Chapter 17.313-327.
Parle M, Chaturvedi D. ORANGE: RANGE OF BENEFITS:review. IRJP .2012: 3 (7):59-63.
Guo J, Tao H, Cao Y, et al.Prevention of Obesity and Type 2 Diabetes with Aged Citrus Peel (Chenpi) Extract.J Agric Food Chem. 2016;64(10):2053-2061.
Bakhru HK.Foods that heal:The natural way to good health. Orient paperbacks.2014.

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Orange

What are the synonyms of Orange?

What is the source of Orange?

Benefits of Orange

What are the benefits of Orange for Cancer?

What are the benefits of Orange for Liver disease?

What are the benefits of Orange for Irritable bowel syndrome?

What are the benefits of Orange for Asthma?

What are the benefits of Orange for Indigestion?

What are the benefits of Orange for Atherosclerosis (plaque deposition inside the arteries)?

How effective is Orange?

FAQs about Orange benefits

Precautions when using Orange

FAQs about Orange precautions

Recommended Dosage of Orange

How to use Orange

Benefits of Orange

FAQs about Orange benefits

Precautions when using Orange

FAQs about Orange precautions

Recommended Dosage of Orange

How to use Orange

Frequently asked questions

Q. What are the constituents of Orange?

Q. Can you eat Oranges on an empty stomach?

Q. How many Oranges should you have in a day?

Q. How much sugar is present in an Orange?

Q. How do you extract Orange oil?

Q. How does Orange peel whiten teeth?

Q. Is eating Orange seeds harmful?

Q. Is Orange acidic?

Q. Is Orange bad for diabetes?

Q. What are the health benefits of eating Oranges during pregnancy?

Q. How can Orange oil kill fleas?

Q. What are the benefits of drinking blood Orange juice?

Q. Is Orange beneficial for weight loss?

Q. Does Orange juice promote skin whitening?

Q. What are the uses and benefits of Orange essential oil?

Q. Are Oranges good for high blood pressure?

Q. Is orange peel toxic?

Q. Is Orange peel safe for skin?

Q. Does Orange have a role in skin aging?

Q. What are the Health Benefits of Orange?

Q. What are the benefits of Oranges for hair and skin?

References