Almonds are a nutrient powerhouse, but many people discard the brown peels after blanching them, unaware of their incredible potential. These peels are not just edible but also packed with antioxidants, fiber, and nutrients, making them a valuable resource for health, beauty, and sustainability. Here are five practical and creative ways to use almond peels in your daily life.
You can add almond peel to your diet, here’s how
Almond peels are a rich source of dietary fiber, polyphenols, and antioxidants. Instead of throwing them away, dry them thoroughly and grind them into a fine powder. This almond peel powder can be incorporated into your diet in the following ways:
A teaspoon of almond peel powder in your morning smoothie can boost fiber intake and add a nutty flavor. Mix the powder into baked goods like cookies, cakes, or muffins for added nutrition. Enhance the nutritional profile of breakfast cereals, oatmeal, or yogurt by sprinkling some almond peel powder on top.
This simple step ensures you maximize the health benefits of almonds without any waste.
You can make a natural scrub out of almond peels
Almond peels are perfect for creating a gentle exfoliating scrub for your skin. The natural antioxidants and nutrients help remove dead skin cells, brighten your complexion, and fight free radicals. Here’s how you can make a DIY face scrub:
Take almond peels, honey, and a few drops of coconut oil or rosewater. Blend the dried almond peels into a coarse powder. Mix it with honey and a small amount of oil or rosewater to form a paste. Massage the scrub onto your face in circular motions for a few minutes, then rinse with warm water. This all-natural scrub is ideal for sensitive skin and can be used once or twice a week for glowing results.
Almonds are nutrient-rich, providing healthy fats, protein, and fiber. A handful of almonds (about 1 ounce) contains around 160 calories, 6 grams of protein, and 14 grams of heart-healthy monounsaturated fats. They’re an excellent source of vitamin E, magnesium, and antioxidants, supporting heart health, brain function, and skin health. Almonds also help regulate blood sugar levels due to their low glycemic index and promote satiety, making them a great snack for weight management. The fiber in almonds supports digestive health and can promote a healthy gut microbiome.
Brew the almond peels and make a good tea
Almond peels can be brewed into a soothing and nutritious tea. Their antioxidant properties help reduce inflammation, improve digestion, and promote overall wellness. Take almond peels, water, and optional flavorings like cinnamon, ginger, or honey. Boil the almond peels in water for 5-10 minutes. Strain the liquid into a cup. Add honey, cinnamon, or a slice of ginger for added flavor and benefits. This simple, caffeine-free tea is a comforting drink that makes good use of almond peels while supporting your health.
Use the peels to thicken soups and sauces
Almond peels are fibrous and can act as a wonderful natural thickener. Grind almond peels and mix them in a little amount of water into a paste to add to the soups, stews, or sauces; this will strengthen their texture, along with infusing them with added fiber, magnesium, and calcium, a trio that also contributes to an individual’s bone structure. Almond peel can be incorporated into creamy soups, including tomato, pumpkin, or cauliflower, with the mild nutty flavor it creates.
You can make a compost from these peels and add them to your garden
If you’re into gardening, almond peels can make an excellent addition to your compost pile. They’re biodegradable and rich in organic matter that can nourish the soil and promote healthy plant growth. Here’s how to use almond peels for composting:
Break the peels into smaller pieces to accelerate decomposition. Combine the peels with kitchen scraps, grass clippings, and dried leaves for a balanced compost mix. Once decomposed, use the nutrient-rich compost in your garden to enrich the soil and support plant health. This sustainable use of almond peels minimizes waste while benefiting the environment.
