Yumi AraoSpring is approaching, but chilly days still linger. As the cold weather continues, many people find comfort in a warm bath. For Japanese people, bathing is not just a way to unwind but also a cultural tradition for staying warm, as seen in hot spring customs. Orange peels are a natural and magical bath additive that can elevate your bath time.
Health benefits of orange peels
Due to their bitterness, orange peels are not typically eaten, but they offer numerous health benefits when used in a bath. Sun-drying orange peels is a simple way to create a natural and invigorating bath additive.
- Releases an aromatic scent that enhances relaxation
- Improves blood circulation, helping the body stay warm and prevent colds
- Boosts skin elasticity with vitamins A and C
How to make sun-dried citrus peels
You can learn the traditional way to make dried citrus peels.
Wash citrus peels well
Soak citrus peels in water with salt, vinegar, or baking soda for one minute, then rinse them well. Not required if the oranges are organically grown.
Prepare for sun-drying
Pat the peels dry and tear them into smaller pieces. Place them on a plate (a sieve is preferable), ensuring they do not touch.
Dry
Leave the peels in a shady, airy spot for about a week until they become crisp.
Hidden gems of ponkan orange peel bath salts
Munachachaen, located in Akehama, Ehime Prefecture, has launched sustainable bath salts made from citrus waste. This initiative aligns with their mission to create value from abandoned citrus harvested on their farm while promoting Akehama as a tourist destination. Once discarded, orange peels have now been transformed into nature’s treasures.
There’s more to the story than just the product. Peeling oranges by local senior women is essential for producing orange oil, a key ingredient in the bath salts. This job opportunity empowers them while keeping them socially connected.
Discover the ancient Japanese wisdom of bathing with citrus peels and reinvigorate your body with a sustainable bath experience.
