Blood orange juice doesn’t stop at good looks and great taste — blood orange juice is also packed with health benefits.
And the best part? You can make it in less than 10 minutes using all-natural, organic ingredients. Whether you're powering through a busy morning or hosting weekend brunch, this vibrant juice is the ultimate year-round go-to drink. Refreshing, easy, and seriously good for you.
What is Blood Orange Juice?
Blood oranges are a variety of orange with crimson-colored flesh due to the presence of anthocyanins, powerful antioxidants not found in regular oranges. When juiced, they produce a striking ruby-red liquid that’s both tart and sweet, making it a flavorful and visually stunning drink.
Blood Orange Juice vs Orange Juice
Blood orange juice differs from orange juice in flavor, color, and antioxidant content. Blood orange juice has a berry-like, richer taste and a deep red color due to anthocyanins, while regular orange juice is more citrus-forward and bright orange.
| Feature | Blood Orange Juice | Orange Juice |
|---|---|---|
| Color | Deep red or crimson | Bright orange |
| Flavor | Sweet-tart with berry notes | Pure citrus, tangy |
| Antioxidants | High in anthocyanins | High in vitamin C |
| Availability | Seasonal (winter/spring) | Year-round |
| Best Use | Cocktails, gourmet dishes, visual appeal | Everyday drinking, cooking, smoothies |
Is Blood Orange Juice Good for You?
Yes, blood orange juice is good for you.
It's packed with essential nutrients and powerful antioxidants that support overall health.
- Rich in Vitamin C: Like regular oranges, blood oranges are an excellent source of vitamin C, which boosts your immune system and promotes skin health.
- High in Antioxidants: Blood oranges contain anthocyanins — the same pigments found in berries — which have anti-inflammatory and heart-protective benefits.
- Supports Heart Health: The juice may help lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels due to its antioxidant content.
- Good for Skin & Immunity: The combination of vitamin C and other phytonutrients helps fight free radicals and supports collagen production.
- Natural & Low in Calories: When freshly squeezed and consumed without added sugar, it’s a low-calorie, hydrating, and natural beverage.
Tip: For the most health benefits, choose 100% pure, freshly squeezed blood orange juice without added sugar or preservatives.
How Quickly Will Orange Juice Raise Blood Sugar?
Orange juice raises blood sugar quickly — usually within 15 to 30 minutes.
Orange juice has a high GI, meaning it’s rapidly digested and absorbed, causing a quick spike in blood glucose levels. Even though the sugars in orange juice are natural (mainly fructose and glucose), they still impact blood sugar levels significantly, especially in juice form where the fiber is removed.
For People with Diabetes or Blood Sugar Concerns:
A small glass (about 4 oz or 120 ml) of 100% orange juice can be used to treat hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) because it works fast.
Does Orange Juice Lower Blood Pressure?
Yes, orange juice may help lower blood pressure.
Here’s how it works:
- Rich in Potassium: Orange juice is a good source of potassium, a mineral that helps balance sodium levels in the body and relax blood vessels, which can reduce blood pressure.
- Contains Flavonoids (like hesperidin): These plant compounds found in oranges may improve blood vessel function and reduce inflammation, supporting heart health and lowering blood pressure.
- Natural Vitamin C: This antioxidant can help reduce oxidative stress, which is linked to hypertension.
Important Notes:
For maximum benefit, choose 100% pure orange juice with no added sugars.
How to Make Blood Orange Juice?
Making it at home with a high-quality juicer like the Ciarra® Cold Press Juicer ensures you get the most out of every fruit—both in flavor and nutrition.
Ingredients:
4–6 blood oranges (depending on size and juicing yield)
Instructions:
- Rinse the blood oranges under cold water and pat them dry.
- Peel the oranges. While the Ciarra juicer’s 4.3-inch wide feed chute can handle large chunks, it’s best to remove the skin for optimal flavor.
- Place the orange segments directly into the feed chute. No need to pre-cut finely—this juicer handles whole pieces with ease.
- Activate the juicer. The slow cold press technology gently crushes the fruit, minimizing oxidation and preserving nutrients.
Pro Tip: Add a touch of fresh mint or a splash of sparkling water for a refreshing blood orange spritzer—perfect for brunch or summer afternoons.
Why Use the Ciarra® Cold Press Juicer?
Unlike many standard juicers, the Ciarra Cold Press Juicer is engineered for maximum yield and minimum waste. In independent performance tests, it extracted up to 19 oz more juice from the same amount of produce compared to other brands—leaving behind only ultra-dry pulp.
Key Benefits:
- More Juice, Less Waste: High juice yield means more nutrition and less produce waste.
- Smooth, Foam-Free Texture: The slow masticating process creates ultra-smooth juice with vivid flavor.
- Effortless Juicing: Wide chute handles whole fruits with minimal prep, and the motor powers through tough or fibrous ingredients with ease.
- Easy to Clean & Maintain: Anti-clog reverse function, smart safety lock, and drip-free spout make cleanup stress-free.
Blood Orange Juice FAQs
What Does Blood Orange Juice Taste Like?
Blood orange juice has a unique flavor—sweet with a hint of tartness and a subtle berry-like undertone. It’s less acidic than regular orange juice and often described as a mix between orange and raspberry.
Can You Freeze Blood Orange Juice?
Absolutely. Blood orange juice can be frozen for up to 3 months. Pour it into an ice cube tray or airtight container. Thaw in the fridge and stir well before drinking.
Can You Mix Blood Orange Juice with Other Juices?
Yes, blood orange pairs well with other fruits like carrot, beet, apple, and pineapple. It adds color, flavor, and a nutrient boost to juice blends or smoothies.
How To Store?
Freshly squeezed blood orange juice should be stored in an airtight glass container in the refrigerator and consumed within 2–3 days for the best flavor and nutritional value.
Are There Different Types Of Blood Oranges?
Yes! There are three main varieties of blood oranges:
Moro – The darkest flesh, intense red juice, bold flavor, slightly bitter.
Tarocco – Sweeter, less acidic, often seedless, popular in Italy.
Sanguinello – Native to Spain, slightly later season, sweet and mildly tart.
Each variety offers a different balance of sweetness, acidity, and pigmentation.
Do Blood Oranges Stain?
Yes, the deep red pigment (anthocyanin) can stain clothing, cutting boards, and countertops—similar to beets or berries.
More Homemade Drink Recipes To Try!
Here are some delicious, healthy homemade drink ideas to enhance your blood orange juice or inspire your next juicing session:
Blood Orange + Carrot Juice
Carrots are packed with beta-carotene, which supports healthy vision and glowing skin.
Tip: Juice 2–3 carrots with 2 blood oranges for a naturally sweet, vibrant drink.
Blood Orange + Ginger + Turmeric Elixir
Ginger supports digestion and immunity, while turmeric (paired with black pepper) fights inflammation.
Tip: Add a 1-inch piece of ginger and ½ teaspoon of turmeric root (or powder), plus a pinch of black pepper to your juice.
Blood Orange Green Boost
Leafy greens like kale and spinach are rich in iron, calcium, and powerful antioxidants.
Tip: Toss in a handful of fresh spinach or kale when juicing your oranges for a refreshing, nutrient-dense drink.
Chia-Infused Citrus Juice
Chia seeds offer fiber, omega-3s, and keep you feeling full longer.
Tip: Stir 1 tablespoon of chia seeds into a glass of fresh blood orange juice. Let sit for 10–15 minutes to absorb and thicken.
Super Citrus Cleanser
Ingredients:
- 2 blood oranges
- 1 cucumber
- 1 celery stalk
- ½ lemon
Great for hydration and detox, this juice is cooling, zesty, and rich in electrolytes.
Pro Tip: For all these combinations, use a cold press juicer like the Ciarra Gadgets® High Yield Cold Press Juicer. Its slow masticating technology extracts maximum nutrients while keeping oxidation low and flavor high.