Orange
The origin of Oranges is unknown but a lot of people believe it originates from southern china. The orange originated in a region encompassing Southern China, Northeast India, and Myanmar, and the earliest mention of the sweet orange was in Chinese literature in 314 BC. As of 1987, orange trees were found to be the most cultivated fruit tree in the world. Orange trees are widely grown in tropical and subtropical climates for their sweet fruit. The fruit of the orange tree can be eaten fresh, or processed for its juice or fragrant peel. As of 2012, sweet oranges accounted for approximately 70% of citrus production.
Health Benefits
- Oranges are an excellent source of vitamin C. One orange offers 116.2 per cent of the daily value for vitamin C. Good intake of vitamin C is associated with a reduced risk of colon cancer as it helps to get of free radicals that cause damage to our DNA.
- Heart disease is currently the world’s most common cause of premature death.Flavonoids — especially hesperidin — in oranges may have protective effects against heart disease. Clinical studies in humans note that daily intake of orange juice for four weeks has a blood-thinning effect and may reduce blood pressure significantly ke of isolated fibers from citrus fruits has been shown to decrease blood cholesterol levels.
- Kidney stone prevention
Oranges are a good source of citric acid and citrates, which are believed to help prevent kidney stone formation..Potassium citrate is often prescribed to patients with kidney stones. Citrates in oranges seem to have similar effects.
- Anemia prevention
Anemia is a condition characterized by low levels of red blood cells or hemoglobin, decreasing its ability to carry oxygen. It is often caused by iron deficiency. Although oranges are not a good source of iron, they are an excellent source of organic acids, such as vitamin C (ascorbic acid) and citric acid. Both vitamin C and citric acid can increase your body’s absorption of iron from the digestive tract. When eaten with iron-rich food, oranges may help prevent anemia.
Financial Benefits
Sweet orange is one of the most consumed fruit in Nigeria. Due to the rapid increase in population, there is an upsurge in demand for oranges. With the high consumption rate, there is an increased opportunity for investors and producers. You can make millions in the orange orchard business, with good planning and hard work. Decide on the variety to plant, but make sure they are disease resistant and fast growers and fruiters. Irrigate properly and maintain your orchard. Be prepared against diseases and harvest early.