Orange peel may help fight inflammation

Orange peel may be a source of substances with a pronounced anti-inflammatory effect. This conclusion was reached by researchers who studied the effect of an aqueous extract of orange peel and the flavonoid hesperidin it contains. The results were published in the journal Food & Function (F&F).

Scientists conducted a series of experiments on human cells, laboratory animals and computer models. Studies have assessed the effect of the extract on neutrophils, cells of the immune system that play an important role in the development of inflammation. It turned out that the extract and hesperidin significantly reduced the production of reactive oxygen species and suppressed the activation of these cells.

In experiments on rats, both substances reduced the severity of inflammation and swelling. Their effect turned out to be comparable to the effect of aspirin. Additional computer analysis showed that hesperidin is able to interact with several molecular targets associated with inflammatory processes.

According to the authors of the work, the anti-inflammatory effect is explained by a combination of several mechanisms of action, including suppression of enzymes and signaling pathways involved in the development of chronic inflammation.

Researchers believe that orange peel and the hesperidin it contains could provide the basis for the development of functional foods and dietary supplements aimed at reducing inflammation in the body.