Oranges belong to the category of citrus fruits and are of the Citrus sinensis family. Some citrus fruits include oranges, grapefruit, lemons, limes, etc. The fruits belonging to the citrus family are considered berries, as they are fleshy, soft, have seeds, and are derived from a single ovary.
Origin
The Orange fruit traces its origin to South-east Asia. The word orange, is an adaptation of the Sanskrit word narangah. The oranges, which were brought to Europe from subcontinent or China, were of Citrus aurantium variety, the bitter orange. It is also referred to as the Chinese Apple or Applesin by many people. It is believed that the Duch, Portuguese, Spanish and Arab sailors planted citrus trees along their trading routes to prevent scurvy.
Production of Oranges
Oranges are grown in groves, and are grown extensively throughout the world. Pakistan, Brazil, USA and Mexico are amongst the top orange producing countries of the world. As the orange trees are sensitive to frost, care should be taken to prevent frost formation on the leaves, bark and branches. So, when sub-freezing temperatures are expected, the best part is to spray the tree with water, to protect it from temperatures that have dropped below the freezing point.
Uses of Orange
Oranges can be put to multiple uses, be it for food or for cosmetic purposes. Oranges are relished all in themselves and are also used in many recipes to add to them a zingy taste. Orange juice is an indispensable part of a healthy breakfast, and gives you the desired energy to carry out your tasks throughout the day. The bees bred in an orange grove produce an orange flavored honey, which is extremely good to taste.
The powder made with the orange peels is an excellent face mask ingredient, and if used regularly, adds a glow to the face. Orange juice added in the face packs give a new life to the skin by removing the dead cells.
Health Benefits Associated With Oranges
• A rich source of calcium, regular consumption of oranges helps build and maintain strong bones and teeth
• The fruit is also rich in Folic Acid, which is ideal for proper brain development
• Research has shown that inclusion of oranges in our daily diet aids in keeping blood pressure under check because of the ample amount of magnesium content in them
• Oranges contain a healthy dose of Vitamin C, which helps in antioxidant protection and also gives a boost to ones immune system, making it more strong and resistant to diseases