5 Extraordinary Uses for Potato Peels

Did you know that potato peels contain an incredible amount of nutrients? In fact, according to Livestrong, the peels provide more nutrients, minerals and fiber than the potato vegetable itself. The USDS lists a slew of additional nutritional perks to consuming potato peels, including vitamin B, better digestion and anti-allergy and immunity benefits as well.

So, besides keeping the peels on the potato when baking, cooking and frying these vegetables, and absorbing the dietary benefits, which other ways can these root vegetable skins be used? Read ahead for five unusual, but valuable uses for potato peels, and enjoy the benefits!

Treating minor burn wounds

Potato peels are an effective, and natural material for relieving burnt skin, including sunburns. Simply blend the potato peels and dab the liquid on the affected area. Alternatively, you can place cold potato skins on the burn for similar results.

This home remedy is effective, explains The Health Site, since the potato peels act as a strong antibacterial agent, while also moisturizing the skin. Some say it might even work better than conventional methods against minor burns! 

Caring for your plants and garden

According to Web Gardner, potato skins are excellent for compost. Compost is the mixture of ingredients used to fertilize and improve soil. Oftentimes recycled organic materials are used as ingredients for fertilizing soil. Popular options include leaves, coffee grounds, fruit scraps and vegetable waste, such as potato peels. 

Add enriching nutritional goodness to your indoor pot plants and garden with peels you would have otherwise thrown out. According to Conserve Energy Future, potato peels are loaded with nutrients such as phosphorus, potassium and nitrogen.

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A natural addition to your skincare routine

Potato peels, explains the Krishi Jagran website, are great for skin issues. They can be used to treat acne, reduce excessive oil and even to get rid of dark circles. To do this, Pulse recommends blending potato peels, and applying the liquid to the affected area using a cotton ball. The liquid should remain on the area for about 15 to 20 minutes and can then be  washed off with warm water. 

Seasoning cast iron cookware

Cast and black iron cookware need to be seasoned from time to time and before use. This helps to make them non-stick by developing the oil which forms a coating on the surface, explains Cooks Illustrated. The coating protects against rust and helps food release more easily.
There are various options of what to use as seasoning, one of them being, you guessed it, potato peels! Another benefit to using them for this purpose is that the starch of the potato skins not only add grease to the pans but also give them an efficient clean.  

(Tatiana Volgutova / Shutterstock.com)

DIY invisible ink

Who didn’t love writing in invisible ink as kids? Sending secret messages to a friend that only they can read is super fun! It is a great activity for children of most ages, and a well loved addition to the homeschool classroom. 

According to Delishably, invisible ink can be made from potato skins! Simply simmer the peels in a small saucepan of water for 10 to 15 minutes. Let it cool completely. You’ll then notice that the starch (the part of the water that is white and cloudy) settles at the bottom of the pan. 

Dip a cotton bud into the starch, and write your secret message on a piece of paper. That’s it! To reveal the writing, dilute some liquid iodine with water in a 50-50 ratio. Brush the mixture on top of the writing and voila, the message should be revealed!