2. Repels Mosquitoes and Household Pests Naturally
Both orange peels and cloves contain oils that repel insects. Orange peels are rich in limonene, which is toxic to many bugs including ants, flies, and mosquitoes. Cloves contain eugenol, which is a known insect repellent.
Boiling them together releases these oils into the air, creating a bug-repelling vapor—without the harmful chemicals found in commercial repellents.
Bonus: Pour the cooled water into a spray bottle and spritz around windows, door frames, or picnic tables for added pest control.
3. Boosts Your Mood and Relieves Stress
The scent of oranges is widely known for its mood-boosting and energizing effects. Studies show that citrus aromas reduce cortisol levels, the stress hormone, while increasing feelings of calm and clarity.
Clove oil, on the other hand, is grounding and warming. Its aroma has been used in aromatherapy for centuries to ease anxiety, combat fatigue, and improve focus.
Boiling the two together creates a natural aromatic therapy right in your kitchen, perfect for relaxing after a long day or setting a peaceful tone for the morning.
4. Supports Immune Health and Clears Congestion
The natural oils released from orange peels and cloves have antiviral and antibacterial properties.
The steam from this aromatic blend can help to:
Loosen mucus in the sinuses;
Open nasal passages;
Calm inflammation in the respiratory system;
Kill airborne germs.
During cold and flu season, try standing over the steaming pot and inhaling deeply for several minutes. The vitamin C-rich orange peel and antimicrobial clove vapor act like a homemade inhalant that soothes your respiratory system naturally.
5. Acts as a Natural Humidifier for Dry Indoor Air
Heating systems can leave your home’s air dry, especially in winter. Simmering a pot of orange peels and cloves helps add moisture back into the air, preventing dry skin, nosebleeds, and respiratory irritation.
Adding this to your routine a few times a week can help balance your home’s humidity levels in a gentle, fragrant way.
6. Reduces Kitchen Waste and Supports Sustainability
Boiling orange peels and cloves is a brilliant way to reuse food scraps and natural pantry items that might otherwise go to waste.
Upcycle orange peels after juicing or eating the fruit;
Use leftover cloves from holiday baking or spice blends;
Avoid single-use air fresheners and chemical-based cleaners.
It’s an eco-friendly, zero-waste practice that turns everyday kitchen waste into something beautiful and beneficial for your home.
7. Helps Clean and Freshen the Air – Without Toxins
Commercial air fresheners often contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that can irritate the lungs and contribute to indoor air pollution.
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has linked indoor pollutants to various respiratory and neurological issues.
Boiling orange peels and cloves not only adds a natural scent, but the oils released into the steam may also have mild purifying effects, reducing bacteria and viruses in the air.
This method is especially helpful in homes with children, pets, or allergy sufferers who are sensitive to synthetic fragrances or harsh cleaning products.
How to Boil Orange Peels with Cloves – A Step-by-Step Guide
Ingredients:
Peels from 2–3 oranges (fresh or dried)
1–2 tablespoons of whole cloves
3–4 cups of water
Optional add-ins: cinnamon sticks, vanilla extract, star anise, rosemary, lemon peels
Instructions:
Place orange peels and cloves in a medium pot.
Add water and bring to a gentle boil.
Reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 30–60 minutes.
Refill water as needed to prevent drying out.
Enjoy the aroma as it fills your home!
Storage Tip: You can dry orange peels ahead of time and store them in a jar for future use. Dried peels work just as well for boiling.
Creative Variations to Try
Holiday Blend: Add cinnamon sticks and cranberries for a festive scent.
Spring Refresh: Add lemon peels and rosemary for a bright, herbal aroma.
Vanilla Spice: A splash of vanilla extract adds a cozy sweetness to the mix.
Floral Touch: Add a few dried rose petals or lavender buds for a floral infusion.
Safety Tips and Best Practices
Always monitor your pot while boiling. Do not leave unattended.
Keep away from pets and small children to prevent accidental burns.
Use stainless steel or ceramic pots for best results.
If you have citrus or clove allergies, avoid direct inhalation.
Boiling orange peels with cloves is a timeless, natural remedy that offers soothing aroma, practical home benefits, and holistic wellness support.
It’s easy to make, costs almost nothing, and aligns beautifully with a low-tox, sustainable lifestyle.
