Orange Peel

Orange Peel is cut pieces of dried sweet orange peel, naturally dried to lock in the bright zest and fragrance of fresh oranges. It is a kitchen and tea-cupboard staple: a citrus note for herbal blends, spice rubs and baked goods. Offered in 4oz, 1LB and 10lb sizes.

At a glance

• Cut dried sweet orange peel (Citrus sinensis), called chen pi when aged
• Volatile oil mostly d-limonene, with hesperidin, naringin and pectin
• No caffeine
• Tea: 1 to 2 teaspoons per 8 oz, steeped 5 to 10 minutes
• Offered in 4oz, 1LB and 10lb sizes

The herb. The sweet orange, Citrus sinensis, is a small evergreen tree in the Rutaceae family, first cultivated in southern China. Dried peel, called chen pi when aged, has been a kitchen and herbal ingredient in Chinese practice for centuries. The peel carries a volatile oil that is mostly d-limonene, the flavonoids hesperidin and naringin, and a good amount of pectin and fiber.

What's in it. Dried orange peel only. Limonene supplies the fresh-orange aroma, the flavonoids give the slightly bitter edge, and the pectin adds body to a long steep. There is no caffeine.

How to use. For tea, use 1 to 2 teaspoons of peel per 8 oz of hot water and steep 5 to 10 minutes; a short simmer pulls even more flavor. In the kitchen, a teaspoon in a spice rub or a tablespoon in a quick bread is a good start. Use it as freely as fresh zest, a pinch in tea, a spoonful in mulled cider, or ground with salt and pepper. It brightens heavier herbs without taking over.

What to expect. A cheerful, uplifting citrus cup or an easy way to add zest to a dish. It is a flavor herb, not an active one. It plays well in floral blends with our Whole Rose Buds.

Safety. Dried orange peel is generally as safe as the fruit. A large amount can feel acidic or bitter on the stomach, and people with citrus sensitivity should go carefully. Sweet orange peel is not known for the medication interactions grapefruit has, but if your medication carries a citrus warning, check with your prescriber. Consult a healthcare professional before regular use if you are pregnant, nursing or on medication.

Ingredients and storage. Dried Orange Peel (Citrus sinensis). Keep sealed in a cool, dry, dark cupboard; the peel holds its aroma for about a year.

Common questions

• How do you make tea with dried orange peel? Steep 1 to 2 teaspoons per 8 oz of hot water for 5 to 10 minutes, or simmer briefly for a stronger cup.
• Can this dried orange peel be used in baking? Yes, it goes straight into breads, cookies and spice blends, or grind it first for finer texture.

Disclaimer. These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Orange peel is a traditional botanical, and traditional use does not establish that it will produce any particular result. Consult your healthcare provider before use if you take any medication or have a medical condition. Use at your own risk and keep out of reach of children. Formulated by Healing Herbals, run by a practicing herbalist of 13+ years.