Don’t Throw Away Used Oranges: Learn How to Create a Homemade Insecticide and Flavoring with Them
Homemade Insecticide
Orange peels contain natural oils that can repel insects, making them an excellent base for a DIY insecticide. This eco-friendly solution helps keep pests at bay without harmful chemicals.
- Collect the peels from a few oranges and let them dry out for a day or two.
- Place the dried peels in a blender or food processor and grind them into a fine powder.
- Mix the orange peel powder with a cup of water and a few drops of dish soap.
- Pour the mixture into a spray bottle.
How to Use It: Spray this mixture around windowsills, doorways, and other areas where insects tend to enter. It’s particularly effective against ants and aphids.
Homemade Orange Flavoring
Used orange peels can also add a burst of citrus flavor to your culinary creations. By making your own orange extract, you can enhance your baking and cooking with a fresh, zesty taste.
How to Make It:
- Peel several oranges, avoiding the bitter white pith as much as possible.
- Place the peels in a clean jar and cover them with vodka or another clear alcohol.
- Seal the jar and let it sit in a cool, dark place for a few weeks, shaking it occasionally.
- After a few weeks, strain the liquid into a clean bottle.
How to Use It: Use your homemade orange extract in recipes like cakes, cookies, marinades, and sauces to add a natural citrus flavor.
Bonus Tip: Orange-Scented Cleaner
For a natural cleaner that leaves your home smelling fresh, fill a jar with orange peels and white vinegar. Let it sit for a couple of weeks, then strain and pour the liquid into a spray bottle. This makes an excellent all-purpose cleaner for your kitchen and bathroom.
By repurposing used oranges, you can create effective, natural products that are both useful and eco-friendly. Give these easy DIY projects a try and enjoy the benefits of making the most out of your citrus leftovers!