Have you ever ogled at a pineapple? It’s as tasty as it is bizarre looking. You may be surprised to learn that pineapples are native to South America.
Today, however, they are mostly grown in Thailand, the Philippines, and other Southeast Asian countries. While you may be tempted to peel and toss the spiky skin, we’re here to tell you not to.
That skin contains some fantastic health benefits. We’ve listed our 8 favorites below. To get the most out of pineapple peels, brew a tea.
Wash the peels and then boil the pineapple peel with its pulp. Allow the tea to cool before diluting it with 1-liter water. Strain and enjoy!
1. Anti-inflammatory.
The peel of a pineapple contains bromelain, one of the most potent natural anti-inflammatory compounds. Drinking a tea made from pineapple helps relieve general pain and may also be useful when recovering from sport injuries.
2. Battle osteoarthritis.
Pineapple is recommended for easing inflammatory symptoms of osteoarthritis.
3. Fight cancer.
Pineapple helps support chemotherapy. If you are being treated for cancer, talk to your doctor about how pineapple may benefit you.
4. Prevent cataracts.
The high concentration of vitamin C in pineapple peel helps protect vision.
5. Improve heart health.
The vitamin C in pineapple reduces the risk of heart disease.
6. Prevent asthma attack.
If you suffer from asthma, consider drinking pineapple tea before exercising. The vitamin A in pineapple releases beta carotene, a compound known to reduce the risk of an exercise-induced asthma attack.
7. Anti-aging.
Pineapple peels are rich free-radical fighting anti-oxidants. These anti-oxidants fight age-related diseases and can make a person look and feel younger.
8. Increase fertility.
If you and your partner have pregnancy plans, you can try incorporating pineapple in your daily diets. This is because pineapple contains a host of vitamins and minerals that help promote fertility.