What are the benefits and effects of drinking water infused with fresh orange peel?

Drinking water infused with fresh orange peel usually offers benefits such as relieving cough, improving skin health, preventing colds, drying dampness and resolving phlegm, regulating qi and aiding digestion. The specific explanations are as follows:

1. Relieve Cough

The flavonoids in fresh orange peel, such as hesperidin, have anti-inflammatory, cough-suppressing, and expectorant effects, which can help alleviate mild coughing and throat discomfort.

2. Improve Skin Health

Vitamin C and flavonoids in fresh orange peel can inhibit melanin production, fade pigmentation, and whiten the skin. At the same time, its antioxidant properties help eliminate free radicals, delay skin aging, and maintain skin elasticity and luster.

3. Prevent Colds

Fresh orange peel is rich in vitamin C and flavonoid antioxidants, which can enhance immune function, resist viral invasion, and help prevent colds and influenza.

4. Dry Dampness and Resolve Phlegm

Orange peel warms the spleen and promotes qi circulation, dries dampness, stops coughing, and resolves phlegm. It is suitable for symptoms such as excessive coughing with thick, white phlegm. The volatile oils in orange peel have an irritant effect on phlegm, helping to liquefy or expel it.

5. Regulate Qi and Aid Digestion

Orange peel enters the spleen and stomach meridians and is effective at promoting qi circulation. It can treat discomfort symptoms caused by qi stagnation of the spleen and stomach, such as abdominal distension, fullness, pain, and poor appetite. Limonoids help promote intestinal motility, further improving digestive function.

Note: Fresh orange peel should be thoroughly washed before use to remove surface pesticide residues and dirt. Also, orange peel infused water should be consumed in moderation. Excessive intake may cause gastrointestinal discomfort or allergic reactions. Individuals allergic to citrus fruits should avoid consumption.