Add the zest: 8 fruit peels that are healthy for your body and skin

You may often think of fruit peels as scraps, something to be thrown in the dustbin without a second thought. But in many cases, the skin of your favourite fruit is where the real nutrition hides. From vibrant citrus rinds to fibre-rich skins, fruit peels are packed with antioxidants, vitamins, and other health-boosting compounds. It’s time to rethink the way we treat these powerful outer layers, and start making the most of what we usually throw away.

Fruit peels are nutritional powerhouses. While the juicy flesh of fruits gets all the attention, the skin is where fibre, flavonoids, and disease-fighting antioxidants often concentrate. The apple peel contains most of its vitamin C, the banana skin contains compounds that can support heart health and aid digestion.

Similarly, many of these fruit peels are versatile and easy to add to recipes or even your skincare routine. With just a little prep and creativity, you can unlock their hidden potential. Instead of discarding fruit skins try using fruit peels in teas, sauces, jams, or as home remedies.

Also read | 10 most nutritious and healthy fruits

Here are 8 fruit peels you should stop throwing out and start putting to good use:

• Mango peel: Loaded with antioxidants and dietary fibre, mango skin can be blended into smoothies or pureed into homemade jam. It also adds a slightly tart kick when juiced with the pulp. Just be sure to wash it thoroughly before using.

• Apple peel: Apple skins are a rich source of fibre, vitamin C, and antioxidants. Keep them on in smoothies or slice and dry them for a crisp, on-the-go snack. You can also simmer them into homemade applesauce.

• Watermelon peel: Don’t toss that rind. Watermelon peel contains amino acids and antioxidants. Try pickling it for a crunchy treat, stir-frying it for a savory dish, or blending it into a refreshing juice.

• Pomegranate peel: This peel is packed with powerful antioxidants. Dry it, grind it into a powder, and add it to smoothies, or mix it with yogurt or honey for a rejuvenating face mask.

• Banana peel: Rich in potassium and antioxidants, banana skins are surprisingly edible. Add them to smoothies, cook them into vegan burgers, or slice and stir-fry them for added texture and nutrition.

• Orange peel: Zesty and nutrient-rich, orange peel contains vitamin C and fibre. Grate it into desserts, steep it in tea, or dry it for a fragrant, natural cleaner.

• Lemon peel: Lemon zest is bursting with essential oils and flavonoids. Use it to brighten dishes, blend into drinks, or add it to your beauty routine for its refreshing scent and skin-boosting benefits.

• Papaya peel: With enzymes like papain, papaya skin supports digestion and exfoliates naturally. Use it in a smoothie or apply it to the skin for a gentle, enzyme-rich mask.