Red orange: health benefits and harms

Red orange is not only a delicious exotic fruit, but also very healthy. His homeland is Sicily. That is why this fruit is also called Sicilian orange. Among the entire list of citrus fruits, he deservedly enjoys the greatest popularity. This is due to a number of positive qualities of the product. More on this.

What is the difference between red orange and ordinary

The fruit received the name “red orange” due to the deep red shade of the pulp, as well as the crimson skin. This citrus is grown in several countries, such as Spain, Morocco, China, USA. The size of the fruits of red orange is slightly smaller than usual. The taste is very different from the traditional orange, because it combines unusual citrus notes: strawberry, grape, raspberry.

The zest also has a special aroma, which is why it is actively used in cooking. But it is worth noting that not only the pulp and zest are used for culinary purposes, but also the flowers of the plant.

Which is more useful

If you compare ordinary and Sicilian oranges, then you should understand the most useful components contained in the fruit composition. Sicilian fruit contains many anthocyanins, which become the cause of the blood-red hue. These pigments are present in many fruits and vegetables. Components provide the body with invaluable benefits, especially to maintain proper vision.

As part of an ordinary orange, there is a lot of carotene, which becomes the reason for its bright orange color.

Composition and calorie content

The calorie level of Sicilian orange is small, and can roughly range from 35 to 39 kcal per 100 grams. And it is worth noting that this indicator depends on the variety and area of ​​crop growth.

The average energy value of red orange is: protein - 0.7 g, carbohydrate - 9.93 g, fat - 0.13 g.

In addition, the composition of the fruit includes the following useful components:

• B vitamins (B1, B2, B4, B5, B6, B9);
• beta carotene;
• vitamins PP, E, H, K;
• ascorbic acid;
• trace elements (iodine, zinc, manganese, iron, cobalt, potassium, phosphorus, calcium, magnesium);
• pectins;
• alimentary fiber;
• hydroxycinnamic acids;
• flavonoids;
• volatile and essential oils.

Particular attention should be paid to vitamin C contained in red orange. One such fruit has the ability to make up the body's daily requirement for a component.

What is useful red orange

General benefit

Unusual red citrus fruits are very useful for the human body. This is due to the highest content of vitamins and minerals, and in particular this applies to flavonoids, citric acid, fiber, sucrose, volatile and large amounts of carbohydrates.

A feature of the action of red orange is that it strengthens the immune system of the human body, and also improves all metabolic processes. The main condition is the consumption of fruits in the period after winter colds, during spring and autumn vitamin deficiency, after surgical recovery, as well as chemical or food poisoning.

In addition, it is worth noting that Sicilian oranges benefit not only in fresh form, but also in dried form, as well as in the case of accepting blanks in the form of jam or jam. Such a remedy perfectly removes heat in case of catarrhal diseases, bronchitis or pneumonia.

For women

For women, supporting ideal forms plays a particularly important role.And red orange in this plays a very large role in view of the flavonoids, ascorbic acid and antioxidants contained in the composition. These components will not only maintain the body in good shape, but also retain their beauty, youth.

With daily consumption of fruit, it is possible:

• decrease in cholesterol in the body;
• neutralization of depressive states and support of a positive attitude;
• digestive processes;
• elimination of cellulite that has appeared over time;
• slowing down the aging process in the body.

The fight against aging occurs due to the folic acid contained in the fruit. In addition, it also maintains the nervous system in proper condition.

For men

The benefits of the fruit are noticed not only for the fair sex, but also for the strong. Folic acid is known to be a particularly important component necessary for full potency. Therefore, in combination with the rest of the set of useful components and vitamins of the product, it works to normalize all the necessary processes in the male reproductive system.

With the daily use of red orange, you can extend not only the duration of sexual intercourse, but also life in general. At the same time, it is also important to abandon bad habits: smoking and excessive consumption of alcoholic beverages. This will improve sperm quality and conceive healthy offspring.

During pregnancy

Often a question arises about the benefits of Sicilian orange during pregnancy. Of course, it is difficult to overestimate the benefits of this citrus for the mother herself, as well as for the development of the fetus. Not only does it contain the necessary supply of ascorbic acid, but also folic acid, which is especially important for the fetus, has a beneficial effect on the formation of its nervous system.

In addition, the product has a bactericidal effect and has a positive effect on the functioning of the bladder and kidneys. The fruit will also help to cope with a characteristic problem for this situation - constipation. Due to the contained fiber, the intestines will work, and the problem with constipation will be solved gently and safely.

Do not neglect the skin of a Sicilian orange, as it contains essential oils, whose aroma helps to cope with stressful conditions and invigorates the body as a whole. It must be divided into small pieces and wait a bit until the room is filled with an indescribable aroma, allowing expectant mothers to cope with an unexpectedly spleen or depression.

In the first weeks of pregnancy, the fruit is recommended for use even by doctors. This is due to the fact that it helps to cope with attacks of nausea and toxicosis in general. But at the end of the first trimester, it is desirable to limit the consumption of orange, since the formation of the child’s immunity begins, and the product can cause the development of allergic reactions.

When breastfeeding

During breastfeeding, the use of red oranges should be treated with extreme caution. This is due to the fact that a large amount can cause the manifestation of allergic reactions in the baby, bloating, diarrhea and even intoxication.

Of course, due to the beneficial composition of the fruit, it is worth trying to introduce it into the diet of a nursing mother. But this must be done with extreme caution, while monitoring the manifestation or lack of reaction on the child’s body.

Before taking it, it is important to thoroughly wash the fruit in warm water, then peel it. It is also important to remove the white streaks in which the highest amount of allergen is noted. The first manifestations may appear after 4 hours. The maximum period for this is 24 hours.

For kids

For children, of course, Sicilian orange can be very useful. It is able to replenish the reserves of vitamins and strengthen the immunity of the child’s body prone to frequent respiratory diseases.In addition, it is effective in combating diseases such as pneumonia, bronchitis, as well as in the case of detecting low levels of hemoglobin.

But for children, taking red fruit can be dangerous, especially if the child has not reached the age of one. This is due to the high allergen content in the product. Therefore, the reception must be started with a minimum amount, observing the child's reaction to the newly introduced product.

Please note that it is worth consuming only freshly squeezed juice of the product, since after 20 minutes its organoleptic properties will be lost.

When losing weight

Many scientists have proven that red oranges help in the fight against excess pounds. This is due to the fact that the fruit contains a huge amount of antioxidants and vitamin C, which purposefully work to deactivate free radicals, strengthen immunity and burn large amounts of body fat. In addition, due to the content of anthocyanins, the accumulation of fats and triglycerides in the body is reduced. In addition, these components are able to simulate triglycerides, turning them into the energy needed by the body.

Freshly squeezed juice from Sicilian oranges also has a positive effect on weight loss, and also prevents the accumulation of body fat in tissues. Many nutritionists recommend fruits and freshly squeezed juice from them as the main component for a balanced diet. To support normal weight and high physical tone, at least four Sicilian oranges should be included in the diet daily. But it is imperative to combine such diets with physical activity.

Red orange oil: properties and applications

The use of red orange essential oil is important in cooking, cosmetology and medicine. The tool has excellent disinfectant properties, favorably affects the work of the kidneys and bladder, cardiovascular system and liver, and also improves digestion.

Oil is obtained by pressing and further centrifuging the fruit peel. As a result, the liquid has a ductility, lightness, and also has a bright orange or light scarlet color.

The beneficial effects of red orange oil are as follows:

• stimulation of blood microcirculation;
• normalization of the liver;
• strengthening the heart muscle;
• prevention of thrombophlebitis;
• elimination of seasonal depression, as well as effective action in case of loss of strength.

In addition to the listed positive properties, it is known that earlier this remedy was used in the case of heart palpitations, heartburn and pancreatitis attacks. In addition, it was believed that this is an effective remedy for anemia, scurvy or bleeding gums. It is said that the aroma of essential oil has a beneficial effect on the children's psyche.

The use of oil in cosmetology

In cosmetology, the use of red orange oil is extensive. First of all, it is very useful for hair. The oil is used to treat falling out strands due to vitamin deficiency and past colds, it perfectly fights dandruff. In addition, it is used as a means to care for pale and dry skin. As a result, the earthy and tired look of the face leaves. The skin elasticity increases, the product also promotes its lifting and toning, perfectly copes with the fight against the second chin.

Consider some of the most common recipes for skin care:

1. To moisturize dry skin, mix 2 drops of red orange oil with 1 drop of olive oil. Cleanse the skin and apply the prepared composition. Leave it all night.
2. In order to saturate the skin with useful components, it is recommended to make special steam baths, in which add a few drops of essential oil of Sicilian orange.
3. To combat acne and relieve inflammation, you need to prepare a lotion. To do this, mix 8 drops of red orange oil with 1 teaspoon of alcohol. Then dilute the resulting composition with 200 ml of purified water. Apply to cleansed skin 3 hours before bedtime.
4. In order to get rid of black circles under the eyes, you can use this recipe. In particular, it is suitable for oily skin. For cooking, mix 2 drops of orange oil with 1 teaspoon of olive. Apply the resulting composition to the skin around the eyes shortly before going to bed.
5. Especially popular is a face mask based on natural ingredients. To prepare it, you need to knead 2 or 3 fresh strawberries, add 4 drops of red orange essential oil and a teaspoon of cream. Mix well and apply to skin. Leave on for 20 minutes and then rinse with warm water.

It is no secret that a large number of women are faced with problems such as the appearance of stretch marks and cellulite. And everyone wants to get rid of it. Sicilian orange oil is also available here. To prepare the product, 10 drops of fruit oil must be mixed with 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Cleanse the skin by applying any scrub first, and then lubricate the problem areas with a prepared composition and immediately begin intensive massage. In order to achieve the desired effect as quickly as possible, it is necessary to massage the problem area for 40 minutes. And the procedure itself should be carried out every other day.

There are also many effective remedies for hair care. Consider the most common:

1. In order to get rid of dandruff, you can use a mask. You need to mix red orange essential oil - 3 drops, eucalyptus essential oil - 3 drops, pre-warmed sunflower or olive oil - 2 tablespoons. Stir the product and rub it with light massaging movements into the scalp. Wrap the hair in a bag of polyethylene, then in a terry towel and leave it in this form for an hour and a half. After the set time has elapsed, rinse the hair well in the usual way using shampoo.
2. You can save hair from brittleness by preparing the following mask: heat 2 tablespoons of olive or sunflower oil, add 1 teaspoon of lemon juice and 5 drops of Sicilian orange essential oil. Stir, apply on the skin of the head and hair, wrap in a bag of polyethylene and a towel, leave for an hour and a half. Rinse off.
3. You can carry out a very pleasant hair procedure called aroma combing. To do this, put a couple drops of red orange essential oil on a wooden comb and comb the curls before going to bed. The aroma of hair will be pleasant and have a calming effect.

Oil can also be used to strengthen nails. The easiest way is to apply the product on the base of the nail and rub it with light movements. Do not rinse, it is necessary to allow time for the absorption of oil.

Red oranges in medicine

Due to the fact that red oranges contain many useful components and vitamins, they are used as a food supplement in the treatment or in order to prevent a large number of diseases. It is recommended for the most effective treatment to consume fruits only fresh or in the form of freshly squeezed juice. Only this option implies the full content of nutrients. It is better to refuse juices packaged at the factory, since they are subjected to heat treatment, which leads to a loss in the useful composition of the product.

The special benefits of Sicilian oranges are seen in the treatment of scurvy, as well as in the recovery from diseases. During colds, this citrus can be used as an immunostimulating and antipyretic agent.

Red oranges in cosmetology

In cosmetology, the use of red orange is possible for all skin types.But the maximum effect is achieved when using funds for dry skin. To do this, previously cleaned skin should be wiped with freshly cut slices. It perfectly refreshes, tones and moisturizes.

For the preparation of masks used mainly peel of Sicilian orange. Consider some of the most effective recipes for preparing skin and hair care products:

1. In order to prepare a face-lift mask, it is necessary to grind the dried peels of red orange into powder. Pour 2 tablespoons of the powder into a convenient container, add 1 teaspoon of natural honey and still add a small amount of natural yogurt. Mix thoroughly and grease the face with the resulting composition and leave for 20 minutes. After the set time has elapsed, rinse with cold water.
2. In order to improve the texture and tone of the skin, as well as relieve inflammation, it is necessary to dry the peel of the red orange, and then grind it into powder. Add to bath before bathing.
3. For hair care, you need to dilute the crushed peel of a red orange with water and let it brew for 12 hours. Then wash the hair with the resulting infusion. Such care allows you to get rid of dandruff, as well as fully clean the curls.

In addition, all products prepared on the basis of orange peels also have a nourishing, tonic, brightening effect.

Harm and contraindications

Despite the listed positive qualities of the product, in some cases it can cause harm to health. Here is a list of contraindications to the use of red orange:

1. Gastric ulcer and gastritis.
2. Special sensitivity and allergic manifestations.
3. Sensitive enamel (acid can be damaging to teeth, so drink juice through a tube).

How to choose and store

When choosing Sicilian oranges, you should pay attention to the bright orange color of the fruits, which sometimes also meet with an attractive blush. For their size, they must be heavy and produce a floral, slightly sweet aroma.

On the counter in the store, the shelf life of fruits can reach several days. When stored in a refrigerator, you can expect to keep the product for a week. Please note that before using it to resume the fruit aroma, it must be warmed to room temperature.

Interesting Facts

1. Red fruit is inferior in size to its orange citrus counterparts, but its distinguishing feature is in juicy and tender pulp, which has combined a combination of an ordinary orange with a noticeable shade of raspberry.
2. The color of the pulp and peel is formed due to the present component - anthocyanin, which is an antioxidant that slows down the aging process and removes cholesterol from the body.
3. The fruit first appeared in Sicily. Hence the name "Sicilian orange". Often this citrus fruit can still be found in the Mediterranean.
4. Today there are 3 types of red orange. The sweetest, seedless, is called Tarocco. The oldest variety is Sanguinello, the flesh of which can be colored in red or dark purple. The youngest variety is Moro.
5. Sicilian oranges are used in cooking for making marmalade, sorbet or cakes. But in its own form, this product is a pleasure to use.

It is worth noting that Sicilian orange can be used in cooking not only for the preparation of sweet dishes. It is also actively used as a component for salads or sauces. It can also be used as an addition to food prepared on the basis of seafood, pork or poultry. Fragrant zest perfectly complements pastries.

Photo of red oranges