Orange as an Herb

(Citrus aurantium)

The first mention of oranges appears in the writings of Arabs, the time and manner of their first cultivation in Europe being uncertain.

Orange trees, at the age of ten years, will occupy nearly an acre of land, and will produce during the season about 2,200 lb. of Orange flowers.

Bitter Orange

The bitter orange is native to Africa, Arabia, and Syria. The membranes and pulp of the fruit, are very sour and bitter (hence the name).

Medicinal Uses for Oranges

Orange oil is used chiefly as a flavoring agent, but may be used in the same way as oil of turpentine in chronic bronchitis. It is non-irritant to the kidneys and pleasant to take.

In aromatherapy, orange is used to treat anxiety and depression.

In China the dried peel is used for its diuretic properties.

Medicinal Uses for Bitter Orange

Bitter orange peel has anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, and anti-fungal properties.

Herbalists in Europe began using bitter orange for stomach complaints, nervous conditions, gout, sore throat, and as a sedative. Currently, the British Pharmacopoeia lists it as a bitter tonic. In traditional Chinese medicine, it is used as an ingredient in several different formulas, most of them dealing with coughs, colds, indigestion, nausea, and even organ prolapse. Contemporary Chinese practitioners inject it for the treatment of anaphalylactic shock and shock syndrome. It is also used in bath and body care products.

Koflet is an all-natural formula that helps soothe bronchial mucous membranes and sore throats. It also supports the body's normal immune function against common allergens.

The German E Commission has approved the use of bitter orange for loss of appetite, dyspeptic ailments and stomach complaints. There is some speculation and testimony that bitter orange peel can be used for weight loss and as a nasal decongestant, but according to the German Commission there still need to be clinical trials done.

Culinary

The culinary uses for oranges are seemingly endless - there is something about their flavor that pairs well with sweet and savory, tangy, spicy and even sour flavors. Whether in juice, zest or section form, oranges can be incorporated into just about any dish.

Culinary: Bitter Orange

As a flavoring agent, bitter orange can be used in a wide variety of foods, and is used in liqueurs (most notably Triple Sec), deserts, candy, gelatins and puddings. It is used to cover up the taste of pharmaceuticals, as well as being a key ingredient in marmalade. The peel is used in teas, especially those made for digestive complaints.

Cautions

Some find the orange to be an irritant to the skin.

Cautions: Bitter Orange

Not recommended during pregnancy, and should not be used by children.

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DISCLAIMER: These pages are presented solely as a source of INFORMATION and ENTERTAINMENT and to provide stern warnings against use where appropriate. No claims are made for any historical herbal treatment. In no way can the information provided here take the place of the standard, legal, medical practice of any country. Some plants are extremely toxic and should be used only by licensed professionals. Some plants used for illness in the past have proven to be ineffective for the problems to which they were applied.