Pineapple peel a potent anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer agent

By Sari Huhtala

This hot or cold tea puts pineapple core and peel, where so much nutrition lies, to good use, while giving the body an incredible immune-supporting, anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer boost. Plus, it’s perfect for all ages, and makes a pleasant-tasting, natural cough remedy as well. A friend started making this drink as an alternative to sweetened juices and beverages, and swears her body is loving its anti-inflammatory effects.

Though there’s not much fanfare over the benefits of naturally occurring bromelain in pineapple, there ought to be. Consider the fact that scientific evidence supports bromelain acts as a natural anti-cancer agent. It has the ability to affect multiple cellular and molecular targets and the ability to modulate the immune system, according to a 2009 review in the journal Cancer Letters, entitled Bromelain’s activity and potential as an anti-cancer agent: Current evidence and perspectives.

“It is now possible to suggest that the anti-cancer activity of bromelain consists in the direct impact on cancer cells and their micro-environment, as well as in the modulation of immune, inflammatory and haemostatic systems,” according to the review.

One 2016 study in Biomedical Reports stated “bromelain gained universal acceptability as a phytotherapeutic agent due to its history of safe use and lack of side effects.”

Bromelain is also used for sinusitis, digestion and as a cough remedy.

Though the peel and core of a pineapple is typically not consumed, they are perfect for making a vitamin and nutrient-rich drink as they are rich in bromelain, and contain copious amounts of vitamin C.  The peels are also said to fight intestinal parasites.

Try making a juice out of the peels. Wash the fruit well, take off the skin and add water to it. Let it simmer for a while, then cool down. Toss it all into a blender and them pour it through a sieve. Pour into a jar and refrigerate, then enjoy.

Or make a tea infusion. Add pineapple skin to water. Bring to a boil and simmer 15 minutes, then let it steep for 15 minutes, or even all day, then drink or store to drink for a couple of days.

Try this pineapple health tea recipe

• The peel and core of a pineapple
• 1 tablespoon of fresh ginger pieces
• 1 lemon cut in half
• 2-3 cinnamon sticks
• Fresh mint leaves (optional)

Boil all ingredients in a large pot with fresh water for about 40 minutes. Strain then drink hot or cold. Store in refrigerator.

Sari Huhtala is the creator, publisher and editor of Alive and Fit Magazine. She has over 25 years experience in journalism, and is a mother of 3 adult children. She has spent over 20 years navigating a healthy path for her family, one health hack at a time, as a single mom feeding her kids healthy on a shoestring budget. She has over 15 years experience as a certified fitness specialist and personal trainer and 10 years experience as a reiki practitioner. She has also studied shamanism, and holds wildcrafting foraging workshops.