Orange

Oranges provide an excellent source of vitamin C and flavonoids.  They also offer a good source of fiber, carotenes, pectin, potassium, and B vitamins (including vitamins B1, B2, B6, folic acid, and pantothenic acid).Due to the combination of high vitamin C content and flavonoids, oranges are important wherever vitamin C is required to function.Oranges are especially beneficial

for the immune system, lens of the eye, adrenal glands,connective tissues, the reproductive organs, and in promoting overall good health.

Oranges contain a very important flavonoid called hesperidin.  Studies have shown that hesperidin lowers cholesterol and high blood pressure.  The flavonoid also contains strong anti-inflammatory properties.  A high concentration of hesperidin is found in the inner part of the peel and in the white pulp of the orange.  Studies have shown that consuming oranges and orange juice protects against cancer and helps to fight viral infections.  The pectin in oranges also contains properties that are similar to that of grapefruit pectin. Pectin is effective in lowering cholesterol levels.

Oranges are said to be anti-hypertensive, sedative, anti-spasmodic, diuretic and antidepressant. They are helpful in controlling hysteria, insomnia, nervous tension. It is very effective in chronic dyspepsia. It supplies nutrition without burdening the digestive organs. It stimulates the flow of digestive juices, thereby improving digestion and increasing appetite. Orange is beneficial in treating constipation as well. Taking one or two oranges at bed-time and first thing in the morning is an excellent way of stimulating the bowels. An excellent source of calcium and vitamin C, orange is valuable in prevention of diseases of the bone and teeth. Large amounts of orange is beneficial in pyorrhea and dental carries. Orange juice is considered an excellent food for infants. It especially benefits the children whose growth is unsatisfactory. It prevents scurvy and rickets and helps growth.

Orange peels are used in the treatment of acne and pimples. The peel, pounded well with water on a piece of stone, should be applied to the affected areas. It is said to be more effective, if it is pounded with rain water.