Tangerine peel fights cancer?

A compound extracted from tangerine peel can kill certain human cancer cells, research shows . . .

Salvestrol Q40 is found at higher concentrations in tangerine peel, than in the flesh of the fruit.

The researchers suggest the modern trend to throw away peel may have contributed to a rise in some cancers.

Was there really ever a time when tangerines were eaten peel and all? Or are they suggesting that in times past the peel would have been used in some other capacity, as orange zest is?

Dr Tan said Salvestrol was found in other fruit and vegetables, such as the brassica family, which includes broccoli and brussels sprouts.

However, the compound tends to be produced at higher levels when infection levels among crops are high.

Another benefit of organic produce, along with greater flavor. From the BBC.

Posted by David on September 12, 2007 8:45 PM