When it comes to enjoying pineapples, most of us are accustomed to eating the juicy flesh while discarding the tough outer skin. However, did you know that boiling pineapple skin and drinking the water can offer a range of health benefits? Yep, that’s right! Pineapple skin, which is often overlooked and considered as waste, contains valuable nutrients that can be extracted through boiling and consumed as a healthy drink. Let’s explore the surprising benefits of boiling pineapple skin and drinking its water. Or as everyone is calling it… Pineapple skin tea.

1. Rich in Nutrients: Pineapple skin is packed with essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin A, vitamin B6, manganese, copper, and dietary fiber. Boiling pineapple skin allows these nutrients to seep into the water, creating a nutrient-rich drink that can provide a natural boost to your overall health.
2. Antioxidant Powerhouse: Pineapple skin is known to be a rich source of antioxidants, such as flavonoids and phenolic compounds, which can help fight against harmful free radicals in the body. Free radicals are unstable molecules that can cause oxidative stress and damage to cells, leading to various health issues. By consuming pineapple skin water, you can harness its antioxidant power to protect your body from oxidative damage and support your immune system.
3. Anti-inflammatory Properties: Pineapple skin contains enzymes called bromelain, which have anti-inflammatory properties. Boiling pineapple skin releases these enzymes into the water, which can help reduce inflammation in the body. Inflammation is often associated with various chronic health conditions, such as arthritis, digestive issues, and skin problems. Drinking pineapple skin water may help alleviate inflammation and promote overall well-being.
4. Digestive Aid: Bromelain in pineapple skin has also been shown to have digestive benefits. It can help break down proteins and improve digestion, which can be beneficial for those with digestive issues, such as bloating, indigestion, and constipation. Pineapple skin water can act as a natural digestive aid, supporting a healthy gut and promoting better digestive function.
5. Hydration: Pineapple skin water can also be a refreshing and hydrating beverage. Its water contains electrolytes, and natural sugars, which can help replenish fluids in the body and maintain proper hydration levels. Staying hydrated is essential for various bodily functions, including metabolism, digestion, and skin health. Drinking pineapple skin water can be a tasty and hydrating alternative to sugary beverages or artificially flavored drinks.
6. Waste Reduction: Boiling pineapple skin and consuming its juice is also an environmentally friendly practice as it helps reduce waste. Instead of discarding the pineapple skin, which often ends up in the trash and contributes to environmental pollution, boiling and consuming it allows you to make use of a part of the fruit that would otherwise go to waste.

How to Make Pineapple Skin Tea:

Now that you’re aware of the benefits of boiling pineapple skin and drinking its water, here’s a simple recipe to make your own pineapple skin tea at home:

Ingredients:

• Pineapple skin (from 1 pineapple)
• Water (4-5 cups)
• Sweetener (optional) I use honey
• Ice (optional)
• I personally add a stick or 2 of cinnamon, fresh ginger and turmeric (don’t forget a pinch of black pepper to help your body absorb the turmeric) to make a really powerful antioxidant drink!

Instructions:

1. Wash the pineapple skin thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris.
2. Cut the pineapple skin into small pieces and place them in a pot with 4-5 cups of water.
3. Bring the water to a boil and then reduce the heat to low. Simmer for about 30 minutes to an hour, until the pineapple skin is soft and the water has turned into a golden-color.
4. Remove the pot from the heat and allow the pineapple skin infusion to cool.
5. Once cooled, strain the liquid into a pitcher to remove the pineapple skin pieces

There you have it, a super healthy and easy drink.