Red Orange: Health Benefits and Contraindications

Red orange is not only a very tasty exotic fruit, but also very healthy. Its homeland is Sicily. That is why this fruit is also called the Sicilian orange. Among the list of citrus fruits, it is deservedly the most popular. This is due to a number of positive qualities of the product. About this in more detail.

What is the difference between a red orange and a plain orange?

The name "red orange" the fruit received because of the deep red hue of the pulp, as well as the purple-colored peel. This citrus fruit is grown in several countries such as Spain, Morocco, China and the United States. The size of the red orange fruit is somewhat smaller than usual. The taste is very different from the traditional orange, because it combines notes that are unusual for citrus: strawberry, grape, and raspberry.

The zest also has a special flavor, so 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, it is worth to understand the most useful components contained in the composition of the fruit. The Sicilian fruit contains a lot of anthocyanins, which cause the blood-red color. These pigments are present in many fruits and vegetables. The components provide invaluable benefits to the body, especially for the maintenance of vision at the proper level.

The regular orange has a lot of carotene, which is the reason for its bright orange color.

Composition and Calories

The calorie level of the Sicilian orange is small, and can be about 35 to 39 kcal per 100 grams. And it is worth noting that this figure depends on the variety and area of cultivation.

The average energy value of a red orange is: proteins - 0.7 g, carbohydrates - 9.93 g, fats - 0.13 g.

In addition, the fruit contains 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;
• dietary fiber;
• hydroxycinnamic acids;
• flavonoids;
• phytoncides and essential oils.

Special attention should be paid to the vitamin C contained in red oranges. One such fruit has the ability to replenish the daily requirement of the body in the component.

What are the benefits of red oranges?

Common Benefits

Uncommon red citrus fruits are very beneficial to the human body. This is due to the highest content of vitamins and trace elements, especially flavonoids, citric acid, fiber, sucrose, phytoncides and a large number of carbohydrates.

The peculiarity of the red orange is that it strengthens the immune system of the human body, as well as improves all metabolic processes. The main condition is to use the fruit in the period after the winter colds, during the spring and autumn avitaminosis, after surgical recovery, as well as poisoning of chemical or food nature.

In addition, it is worth noting that Sicilian oranges are beneficial not only in their fresh form, but also dried, as well as in the case of taking the preparation in the form of jam or jam. Such a remedy perfectly relieves the fever in case of colds, bronchitis or pneumonia.

For women

For women, a particularly important role is to maintain ideal forms. And red orange plays a very important role in this because of the flavonoids, ascorbic acid and antioxidants it contains. These components will not only keep the body toned, but also maintain beauty and youth.

With the daily consumption of fruit is possible:

• reduction of cholesterol contained in the body;
• The neutralization of depressive states and support a positive mood;
• adjustment of digestive processes;
• Elimination of cellulite that has appeared over time;
• Slowing down the aging processes occurring in the body.

Fighting the aging process is due to folic acid contained in the fruit. In addition, it also supports the proper state of the nervous system.

For men

Benefits of the fruit is seen not only for the fair sex, but also for the stronger. It is known that folic acid is a particularly important component necessary for a full-fledged 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 sexual system of the man.

If you use red orange every day, you can prolong not only the duration of sexual intercourse, but also life in general. It is also important to give up bad habits: smoking and excessive consumption of alcoholic beverages. This will improve the quality of sperm and conceive healthy offspring.

When pregnant

Often there is a question about the benefits of the Sicilian orange during pregnancy. Of course, it is difficult to overestimate the benefits of this citrus fruit 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 particularly 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 bladder and kidneys. The fruit will also help to cope with a characteristic problem for this situation - constipation. Thanks to the fiber contained will work properly intestines, and the problem of constipation is solved gently and safely.

Do not neglect the peel of the Sicilian orange, because it contains essential oils whose aroma helps to cope with stress and invigorates the body in general. It should be divided into small pieces and wait a little while until the room is filled with an inexpressible aroma, which allows expectant mothers to cope with suddenly appearing moping or depression.

In the first weeks of pregnancy, the fruit is recommended to be consumed even by doctors. This is due to the fact that it helps to cope with bouts of nausea and toxicosis in general. But at the end of the first trimester it is advisable to limit the consumption of orange, because the baby's immunity begins to form, and the product can cause allergic reactions.

When breastfeeding

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

Of course, because of the useful composition of the fruit is worth trying to introduce it into the diet of a nursing mother. But this should be done with extreme caution, while monitoring the manifestation or absence of reaction on the body of the baby.

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

For children.

For children, of course, the Sicilian orange can be very useful. It can replenish vitamins and strengthen the immune system of a child's body prone to frequent respiratory diseases. In addition, it is effective in the fight against diseases such as pneumonia, bronchitis, as well as in the case of low hemoglobin levels.

But for children, taking the red fruit can be dangerous, especially if the child is under the age of one year. This is due to the high content of an allergen in the product. Therefore, the reception should start with a minimum amount, observing the reaction of the child to the new product.

Pay attention to the fact that you should use only freshly squeezed juice of the product, because after 20 minutes its organoleptic properties will be lost.

When losing weight

It has been proven by many scientists that red oranges help in the fight against excessive pounds. This is due to the fact that the fruit contains a huge amount of antioxidants and vitamin C, which specifically work to deactivate free radicals, strengthen the immune system and burn a lot of fat. In addition, thanks to the content of anthocyanins, the accumulation of fats and triglycerides in the body is reduced. In addition, these components are able to model triglycerides, turning them into the energy the body needs.

Freshly squeezed juice of Sicilian oranges also has a positive effect on weight loss, as well as preventing the accumulation of fat deposits in tissues. Many nutritionists recommend fruit and freshly squeezed juice as the main component for a balanced diet. To maintain a normal weight and high physical tone, it is worth including at least four Sicilian oranges in your diet every day. But be sure to combine such diets with physical activity.

Red orange oil: properties and uses

The use of red orange essential oil is relevant in cooking, cosmetology and medicine. The product has excellent disinfectant properties, beneficial effects on the kidneys and bladder, cardiovascular system and liver, and improves digestion.

The oil is obtained by pressing and further centrifuging the rind of the fruit. The resulting liquid is viscous, light and 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 of the heart muscle;
• Prevention of thrombophlebitis;
• elimination of depression of seasonal type, as well as effective effect in case of loss of strength.

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

Oil use in cosmetology

In cosmetology, the use of red orange oil is extensive. First of all, it is very useful for the hair. The oil is used to treat hair loss due to vitamin deficiency and colds, perfectly combats dandruff. In addition, it is used as a means to care for pale and dry skin. As a result, it eliminates the earthy and tired look of the face. The product improves skin elasticity, also promotes skin lifting and toning, perfectly copes with a second chin.

Let's look at some of the most common facial skin care recipes:

1. To moisturize dry skin, mix 2 drops of red orange oil with 1 drop of olive oil. Clean the skin of the face and apply the prepared composition. Leave it on all night long.
2. To saturate the skin with useful components, it is recommended to make special steam baths in which to 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 sleep.
4. To get rid of black circles under the eyes, you can use this recipe. It is especially suitable for oily skin. Mix two drops of orange oil with one teaspoon of olive oil. Apply the resulting composition to the skin around the eyes shortly before going to bed.
5. Especially popular is the face mask based on natural ingredients. For its preparation, mash two or three fresh strawberries, add four drops of red orange essential oil and a teaspoon of cream. Mix well and apply to the skin. Leave it on for 20 minutes, and then rinse off with warm water.

It is no secret that a large number of women face such problems as the appearance of stretch marks and cellulite. And everyone wants to get rid of it. Here you can also use the oil of Sicilian orange. To prepare a remedy, you need 10 drops of the fruit oil mixed with 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Clean the skin by first applying any scrub, then lubricate the problem areas with the prepared composition and immediately proceed to intensive massaging. 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.

For hair care, there are also many effective remedies. Consider the most common ones:

1. In order to get rid of dandruff, you can use a mask. You should mix red orange essential oil - 3 drops, eucalyptus essential oil - 3 drops, preheated sunflower or olive oil - 2 tablespoons. Mix the product and rub it with light massaging movements on the scalp. Wrap the hair in a plastic bag, then in a terry towel and leave it like that for an hour and a half. After the given time, rinse your hair well in the usual way with 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 essential oil of Sicilian orange. Stir, apply to the scalp and hair, wrap in a plastic bag and towel, leave for an hour and a half. Rinse off.
3. You can have a very pleasant procedure for your hair, called aroma combing. To do this, put a couple of drops of essential oil of red orange on a wooden comb, and comb your locks before going to bed. The scent of the hair will be pleasant and will have a soothing effect.

The oil can also be used to strengthen the nails. The easiest way is to apply the oil to the base of the nail and rub it in gently. It is not necessary to wash off, it is necessary to allow time for the oil to be absorbed.

Red oranges in medicine

Due to the fact that red oranges contain many useful components and vitamins, they are used as a dietary supplement in the treatment or prevention of a large number of diseases. It is recommended to consume the fruit only fresh or in the form of freshly squeezed juices for the most effective treatment. Only this option implies the full content of useful substances. From juices, packaged in a factory, it is better to refuse, because they are subjected to heat treatment, which leads to the loss of the useful composition of the product.

The particular usefulness of Sicilian oranges is seen in the treatment of scurvy, as well as in recovery from illnesses. During colds, this citrus fruit can be used as an immunostimulant and antipyretic.

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 a remedy for dry skin. For this purpose, pre-cleaned skin should be rubbed with freshly sliced slices. This refreshes it perfectly, tones and moisturizes.

For the preparation of masks is used mainly the peel of the Sicilian orange. Let's look at some of the most effective recipes for preparing skin and hair care products:

1. To prepare a face-lifting mask, you need to grind dried red orange peels into a powder. In a convenient container pour 2 tablespoons of powder, add 1 teaspoon of natural honey and still add a small amount of natural yogurt. Thoroughly mix and smear the resulting composition on the face and leave for 20 minutes. After the given time, rinse with cold water.
2. To improve skin texture and tone, and to relieve inflammation, you need to dry the peel of a red orange and then grind it into a powder. Add it to the bath before bathing.
3. For hair care you need to dissolve crushed red orange peel with water and leave to infuse for 12 hours. Then wash your hair with this infusion. This treatment can get rid of dandruff, as well as fully cleanse your locks.

In addition, all funds prepared on the basis of orange peels have yet a nutritious, toning, 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. Peptic ulcer and gastritis.
2. Particular sensitivity and allergic manifestations.
3. Sensitive enamel (acid can have a destructive effect on teeth, so juice should be drunk through a tube).

How to choose and store

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

On the shelf in the store, fruit can last up to several days. If stored in a refrigerator, you can expect to keep the product for up to a week. Note that the fruit should be warmed to room temperature before consumption to renew its flavor.

Interesting Facts

1. The red fruit is inferior in size to its orange citrus counterparts, but its distinctive feature is the juicy and tender flesh, which gathered a combination of the usual orange with a noticeable hint of raspberry.
2. The color of the pulp and rind is due to the component anthocyanin, which is an antioxidant that slows the aging process and removes cholesterol from the body.
3. The fruit first appeared in Sicily. This is where the name "Sicilian orange" came from. Often this citrus fruit can still be found in the Mediterranean.
4. Today there are 3 types of red orange. The sweetest, seedless one is called Tarocco. The oldest variety is called Sanguinello, and its flesh can have a red or dark purple hue. The youngest variety is considered Moro.
5. Sicilian oranges are used in cooking to make marmalade, sorbets or cakes. But also on its own, this product is a pleasure to eat.

It is worth noting that the Sicilian orange can be used in cooking not only for sweet dishes. It is also actively used as an ingredient in salads or sauces. It can also be used as an addition to seafood, pork, or poultry-based meals. The fragrant zest will perfectly complement baked goods.

Photo of red oranges