Mandarin Orange – sources, health benefits, nutrients, uses and constituents at NaturalPedia.com

Tuesday, June 13, 2017 by Tim Wesley

Mandarin oranges are citrus fruits that are sweeter than their cousins. These are easier to peel and have segments that are easier to separate. Mandarin oranges are brighter in color and smaller than the common orange. This variety includes clementine, owari, tangor, dancy, honey, pixie, tangerines, and satsuma. These are commonly used in salads and as flavors for candies and ice cream.

List of known nutrients

Beta-Carotene
Bioflavonoids
Calcium
Copper
Lutein
Manganese
Pectin
Phosphorus
Potassium
Vitamin C
Xanthin
Zinc

Medicinal uses for mandarin oranges

Mandarin oranges are rich in both soluble and insoluble fiber — hemicelluloses and pectin — that prevent the absorption of cholesterol in the body. These contribute to the regulation of low density lipoprotein (LDL or the bad) cholesterol, which is what blocks artery walls and often lead to heart attacks and strokes. The fiber also acts as a laxative, which helps promote smoother bowel movement.

When you extract the juice of mandarin oranges, the high levels of beta cryptoxanthin can fight hepatitis C. It can also prevent liver cancer. In a study published in the Archives of Biochemistry and Biophysics people with hepatitis who drank its juice showed no signs of liver cancer. Participants who did not drink the juice had a 8.9 increased risk of developing the disease. Limonene, another substance present in the citrus, is known to have anti-cancer properties that help prevent breast cancer.

Similarly, a 2006 study found that blood samples of more than 1,000 people who consumed mandarin oranges displayed a lowered risk of stroke and heart disease. Minerals like potassium are helpful in lowering blood pressure by ensuring smooth blood flow among the arteries.

Body systems supported by mandarin oranges

When it comes to the health benefits of mandarin oranges, most people would initially think about prevention of colds and flu-like symptoms. Vitamin C is very useful in warding off colds and making sure that your immune system is strong enough to withstand infections. Microbial properties present in the fruit can fight bacteria. In the same way they fortify the immune system, mandarin oranges can ward off digestive disorders like cramps, vomiting, and spasms.

Since they contain substantial amounts of fiber, mandarin oranges are helpful in losing weight. They help make you feel full longer and minimize the urge to eat more. Equally important is their ability to lower insulin so the body uses sugar for energy instead of storing it as fat.

You should eat mandarin oranges for healthier and more beautiful skin. The antioxidants found here fight free radicals and remove toxins from the body. They provide protection from the harmful UVA rays of the sun and make the skin more resistant to damage so it doesn’t get wrinkles, blemishes, and fine lines.

Way to enjoy mandarin oranges

There’s no surprise here: Mandarin oranges can be consumed and enjoyed in a lot of ways. You can use them on salads, pudding, pies, cakes, ice cream, even in main dishes. They’re great as dressings and smoothies as well. Here are some recipes to help you enjoy mandarin oranges.