
Citrus sinensis (L.) Osbeck, commonly known as the sweet orange, is one of the most widely consumed fruits globally. Its peel, which is typically discarded as waste, contains an array of bioactive phytoconstituents including hesperidin, narirutin, polymethoxylated flavones, vitamin C, and essential oils. This study was undertaken to prepare and evaluate herbal gummies using orange peel powder as the primary active ingredient, with gelatin as the gelling base, along with sugar, honey, citric acid, distilled water, and orange colouring agent. Three formulations (F1, F2, and F3) were prepared by varying the concentration of orange peel powder at 1 g, 2 g, and 3 g respectively, while keeping all other excipients constant. The prepared gummies were evaluated for organoleptic properties, solubility, weight variation, pH measurement, swelling index, and qualitative phytochemical tests. All three formulations exhibited acceptable organoleptic properties, uniform shape, mild citrus aroma, and a sweet flavour with slight bitterness. Weight variation analysis yielded average weights of 6.53 g, 7.17 g, and 7.64 g for F1, F2, and F3 respectively. pH values ranged from 4.05 to 4.36, consistent with citric acid-adjusted mildly acidic formulations. Solubility testing showed progressive dissolution delay with increasing orange peel powder concentration. The swelling index was recorded at 16.25%, indicating moderate hydrogel-like behaviour of the gelatin matrix. Qualitative phytochemical screening confirmed the presence of flavonoids by the lead acetate test and carbohydrates by the Molisch test. The results suggest that orange peel based herbal gummies represent a practical, palatable, and scientifically rational alternative dosage form for delivering plant-derived bioactive compounds, particularly for paediatric and geriatric populations.
