Next time you enjoy a juicy orange, don’t toss the peels! Those leftover rinds can be transformed into a useful homemade insecticide and a delightful flavoring for your kitchen. Here’s how to make the most out of your used oranges.
Homemade Insecticide
Orange peels contain natural oils that can repel insects, making them an excellent base for a DIY insecticide. This eco-friendly solution helps keep pests at bay without harmful chemicals.
How to Make It:
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Collect the peels from a few oranges and let them dry out for a day or two.
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Place the dried peels in a blender or food processor and grind them into a fine powder.
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Mix the orange peel powder with a cup of water and a few drops of dish soap.
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Pour the mixture into a spray bottle.
How to Use It: Spray this mixture around windowsills, doorways, and other areas where insects tend to enter. It’s particularly effective against ants and aphids.
Homemade Orange Flavoring
Used orange peels can also add a burst of citrus flavor to your culinary creations. By making your own orange extract, you can enhance your baking and cooking with a fresh, zesty taste.
How to Make It:
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Peel several oranges, avoiding the bitter white pith as much as possible.
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Place the peels in a clean jar and cover them with vodka or another clear alcohol.
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Seal the jar and let it sit in a cool, dark place for a few weeks, shaking it occasionally.
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After a few weeks, strain the liquid into a clean bottle.
How to Use It: Use your homemade orange extract in recipes like cakes, cookies, marinades, and sauces to add a natural citrus flavor.
Bonus Tip: Orange-Scented Cleaner
For a natural cleaner that leaves your home smelling fresh, fill a jar with orange peels and white vinegar. Let it sit for a couple of weeks, then strain and pour the liquid into a spray bottle. This makes an excellent all-purpose cleaner for your kitchen and bathroom.
By repurposing used oranges, you can create effective, natural products that are both useful and eco-friendly. Give these easy DIY projects a try and enjoy the benefits of making the most out of your citrus leftovers!
