When enjoying a juicy dragon fruit, most people discard the peel without a second thought. But what if that peel—so often tossed aside—holds a hidden treasure of health benefits? With a little effort, you can turn this overlooked part of the fruit into a delicious, refreshing, and nutrient-packed drink or jelly. Here’s how to do it—and why you should start today.
Why Dragon Fruit Peel Deserves Your Attention
Dragon fruit peel is rich in anthocyanins, natural antioxidants that help protect your skin, eyes, and blood vessels. In fact, anthocyanins are up to 10 times more powerful than carotene and have been praised for their anti-aging, anti-inflammatory, and circulation-boosting properties.
These antioxidants not only help protect skin from sun damage but also promote the regeneration of retinal cells, making the drink beneficial for eye health—particularly for the elderly or those dealing with myopia or visual fatigue.
How to Prepare a Dragon Fruit Peel Drink
This simple recipe transforms the peel into a beautiful, antioxidant-rich beverage that can be enjoyed warm or cold. Here’s how:
Step 1: Clean the Dragon Fruit Thoroughly
- Place the dragon fruit in a large basin.
- Add a spoonful of salt and enough clean water to cover the fruit.
- Let it soak for 10 minutes, turning the fruit halfway to ensure both sides are submerged.
- Rub the peel gently to remove dirt, pesticide residues, and any hidden debris between the scales.
- Rinse well under running water.
Step 2: Cut and Boil the Peel
- Cut the dragon fruit in half and scoop out the flesh to use separately.
- Place the peel on a cutting board. Remove the root and top of the peel.
- Slice the peel into thick strips, which helps the nutrients release into the water.
- Put the sliced peel into a pot, add enough water to cover it, and cover with a lid.
- Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to medium heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
🔹 Tip: Do not overcook the peel, as excessive heat may destroy some of the valuable nutrients.