The Juicy Orange

A hybrid between pomelo (Citrus maxima) and mandarin (Citrus reticulate) orange is citrus species fruit, with pH ranging from 2.9 to 4. The ratio of sugar and acids decides the sweetness or sourness of the orange.

The name orange is derived from a Sanskrit word “naranga” of the Dravidian origin. There are many species of oranges and distinguished based on the country where it is grown.

The volatile organic compounds like aldehydes, alcohol, ketones and esters impart a peculiar aroma to it and in olden days it was even cultivated for its fragrance and used as scent. Oranges were excellent remedies for bad breath and worked as insect repellents. In the recent era it is cultivated for its pulp and juice extraction.

It is one of the most well-known and richest sources of Vitamin C . Its is a powerful immune booster and has many health benefits. It is a potent antioxidant and has shown to have anti-inflammatory properties due to the presence of phytochemicals and flavonoids

Vitamin C (Ascorbic acid) being the most important nutrient in Oranges, is responsible for collagen formation which is a primary component of connective tissue, responsible for strong ligaments and tendons. Apart from Vitamin A &Vitamin C, they also are a great source  of Phosphorus, Magnesium, Manganese, Selenium, Copper, Choline, Zeaxanthin, and Carotenoids.

Choline helps with sleep, muscular movements and cellular membranes. Its deficiency is also alarming as it leads to scurvy.

Grown mainly during the winter season, apart from its pulp, it’s rind is also grated to produce orange zest.

Oranges are relished as:

• A fruit
• Juice
• Jams and Marmalades

Incorporate oranges as a yummy treat in many ways :-

• Add it to your fruit salad along with Strawberries, Pineapples, Grapes, Melons
• The fruit by itself is a treat to children.
• Keep oranges stocked at the kitchen counter, you won’t land up eating extra junk.
• Freeze orange zest with water in ice trays; flavor your water with it on hot sunny days.
• Frozen orange can be grated onto salads and while making cakes,jellies etc for a wonderful and tangy flavor.

Apart from nutritional value, its skin is used as face mask