The greatest concentration of oils in most fruit is contained in the outer layer of the rind. The lighter portion of the rind contains much less oil. [1] X Research source You can use an electric peeler to obtain the skin of the fruit, but note that this may produce more pulp than a hand peeled method.
Keeping the peels in a small bag and hanging it somewhere to keep the room smelling zesty. The oil in orange peel, limonene, acts as a repellant for several types of insects. Toss a few peels into the garbage disposal and give them a good grinding to freshen up the smell of your sink. [2] X Research source
Cold pressing peel is quite a bit of effort for what looks to be a fairly small amount of oil. Don’t get discouraged. The oil is quite potent. A garlic press is a great way of pressing small amounts of fruit peel with ease. A mortar and pestle may also be used, though this method is a little more labor intensive and difficult.
A simple way of collecting the oil from the liquid is placing the liquid in the freezer. The oil will remain in its liquid form while the remainder freezes, allowing you to pour out the oil. [3] X Research source Oil extracted this way has a small shelf life. Try to use any oil created within a 6 month period.
Avoid the use of a dehydrator or other drying mechanisms when drying the peels. This can compromise the oil stored in the peels.
Over diced peels will take on a liquid, minced appearance. Avoid expressing liquid from the peels prior to the distillation process.
Vodka can be used for the distilling process, but may slightly affect the scent of the oil, depending on the type of vodka used. Place the jar in a location that gets plenty of sunlight to help the separation process. Shake the jar several times a day. Give the jar a shake each day to help separate the oil from the peels.
Oil evaporates much more slowly than water or similar types of liquids. Though oil can technically evaporate, the water will evaporate before the oil, leaving just the oil behind.
Always test a small amount on your skin first in case you have a reaction to the peel oil. Skin sprayed with citrus oil should not be exposed to direct sunlight. Citrus oil is phototoxic, meaning direct sunlight can contribute to sunburn, blisters and other harmful skin conditions.
