Homemade Vitamin C
I like to keep my house as 'chemical' & 'nasty' free as possible, and that includes my food, too. I spend many hours in the kitchen recreating different snacks and foods, trying to make them as healthy as possible. Recently, I have began adding new recipes to my collection, and making my own medications and supplements.
My first was Vitamin C powder (and capsules). I am shocked at how easy it is, and how great they make me feel!
Method
Take the peel from any organic Lemons, Oranges or Limes you have. Finely chop the peel into thin strips and lay out on a tray or plate. Leave the peel to dry in a warm place for a few days or until crunchy.
Once the peel is dry, put it into a blender/grinder/mortar & pestle and process until it becomes a fine powder.
You can use this powder to add to juices and smoothies. Add 1 heaped teaspoon for an extra citrus boost, (and vitamin c hit, of course), or;
You can use a capsule maker to press into capsules (Size 00 capsules x 4)
As simple as that!!
Could you also bake the lemon peels till they are dry instead of leaving it to naturally dry out?
Sure can! A food dehydrator or a very low oven would be fine.
What temperature on a low oven works do you think? perhaps 100°C?
I wouod put it as low as it can go...no more than 100-105°C (225°F) and for around 6-8 hours. You can also leave the oven door ooen, just slightly, to let some heat escape.
I have heard that you can dehydrate in a microwave, but I haven't tried it, and I would be worried about the heat and the microwaves destroying the 'goodness' in the peel. :-)
Yes, I'm not a supporter of microwave ovens...They can alter the chemical composition of whatever you put in there.
I'll try the oven method. Thanks @mel.jai!