If you’re craving a natural and refreshing way to boost your metabolism, this Costa Rican tea recipe is your next go-to. Infused with tropical ingredients like pineapple peel, ginger, and lemongrass, this detoxifying blend has deep roots in Costa Rican wellness culture. Known locally as agua de piña con jengibre, it’s simple to make, loaded with anti-inflammatory benefits, and naturally caffeine-free. Whether served warm or iced, this traditional Costa Rican tea recipe supports digestion, hydration, and weight loss making it a daily ritual worth adopting.
Unlike artificial fat burners or over-the-counter teas packed with chemicals, this drink is all-natural and budget-friendly. This is the kind of tea recipe you brew once and start craving again the next day. If you love flavorful wellness drinks like Japanese Mounjaro tea or Zepbound diet drinks, you’ll find this Costa Rican tea both delicious and empowering. Let’s walk through how to make this vibrant tea right in your own kitchen.
More Weight Loss Drinks: See the Weight Loss Recipes hub or the Full Guide.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
How to Make: Ingredients list, Step-by-step directions
Costa Rican tea ingredients and substitutions
This tea uses just a few natural ingredients most of which are easy to find and gentle on your stomach.
Basic Ingredients:
- 1 pineapple (you’ll use the peels and core)
- 2-inch piece of fresh ginger, sliced
- 1 stalk lemongrass (or 1 tsp dried)
- 6 cups filtered water
- Juice of 1 lemon or lime (optional)
- Natural sweetener like honey or stevia (optional)
Optional Add-ins:
- 1 cinnamon stick
- Mint leaves
- Turmeric root (anti-inflammatory boost)
Looking for variations? You can swap lemongrass with fresh mint or even try adding ginger bug starter for a fermented version rich in probiotics.
How to make this herbal detox tea at home
- Wash the pineapple thoroughly and peel it. Save the fruit for eating—use just the peel and core for the tea.
- In a large pot, combine the pineapple peels, ginger slices, lemongrass, and water.
- Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce to a simmer. Cover and simmer for 45–60 minutes.
- Remove from heat and let it steep for another 15 minutes.
- Strain the tea and discard solids. Add lemon or lime juice if using.
- Sweeten to taste, or enjoy unsweetened for maximum weight loss benefits.
- Serve warm, or chill and serve over ice with a slice of pineapple or mint sprig.
This tea stores well in the fridge for up to 4 days. You can even bottle it in mason jars for easy grab-and-go detox drinks perfect for pairing with a light pineapple snack or after a high-protein lunch.
Ingredient Variations & Enhancements
Enrich your recipe with meaningful, culture-inspired variations:
1. Pineapple Core & Peel Infusion
Use pineapple peels and core instead of just the flesh. These parts are high in bromelain and flavor, making your tea not only flavorful but less wasteful—plus more digestive support.
2. Add Turmeric & Cinnamon for Anti-Inflammatory Support
Include a ½ teaspoon turmeric or a cinnamon stick to enhance anti-inflammatory benefits and add warmth. Turmeric brings curcumin, known for supporting metabolic health; cinnamon helps balance blood sugar and curb cravings
3. Lemon-Verbena or Hibiscus Twist
Sub lemon-verbena with hibiscus petals for a vibrant, antioxidant-rich variation. Hibiscus offers extra vitamin C, floral flavor, and a tart red hue—perfect for an immune boost or visual appeal
4. Cooling Mint & Citrus
Add a sprig of mint or a lime slice when serving cold. Mint enhances freshness and aids digestion; citrus adds brightness and vitamin C.
5. Metabolic Boost Version
For an energized start, combine apple cider vinegar (½ tsp) and a small pinch of cayenne pepper to activate metabolism and suppress cravings—just like modern detox trends suggest
These variations enrich the sensory experience and provide valuable keywords (e.g., “Costa Rican tea weight loss”, “pineapple ginger detox tea”, “herbal metabolism tea”).
Health Benefits of Costa Rican Tea
Costa Rican tea, or agua de piña con jengibre, is more than a delightful tropical infusion it’s a wellness elixir rooted in Costa Rican tradition. This herbal brew uses pineapple peels and core, ginger, and lemongrass, offering a wealth of natural benefits:
- Supports Digestion & Reduces Bloating — Pineapple is rich in bromelain, an enzyme that aids protein digestion and eases inflammation
- Calms and Anti-Inflammatory — Ginger helps soothe the stomach, relieve nausea, and support better digestion
- Hydrating & Mineral-Rich — Lemongrass adds a refreshing citrusy note and may provide trace minerals that support overall wellness
- Soothing & Caffeine-Free Comfort — A rich, golden-hued drink, perfect for cozy warmth or cooling refreshment
It’s a natural, budget-friendly alternative to sugary caffeine drinks supporting digestion, hydration, and calm energy.
Estimated Nutritional & Functional Highlights (Per Serving)
This herbal tea is light yet beneficial. Here’s what one serving brings to the table:
| Benefit | Notes |
|---|---|
| Enzyme support | Bromelain (from pineapple) aids digestion and inflammation reduction |
| Digestive calm | Ginger soothes the stomach and supports circulation |
| Refreshing hydration | Lemongrass adds lightness and potential mineral support |
| Relaxing aroma & ritual | Warm or iced, this tea invites comfort and mindful sipping |
These qualities make it an ideal beverage for wellness routines.
Health Disclaimer
While Costa Rican tea is generally gentle and safe, people with digestive disorders, pineapple/gastro issues, or those sensitive to natural histamines should start with a small serving. This recipe is not a substitute for medical advice consult a healthcare professional if you have specific health concerns.
Trusted References
To elevate credibility, consider referencing authoritative sources such as:
- Blue Zones insights on Costa Rican traditional herbs and longevity Blue Zones.
- Nutrition journals or health sites that discuss bromelain, ginger’s effects, or lemongrass benefits (search later).
- Consider linking to a Costa Rican culinary culture page to highlight tradition WikipédiaBlue Zones.
What Is Costa Rican Tea?
Costa Rican tea, particularly the pineapple-based variety, is a traditional herbal drink rooted in natural wellness practices passed down through generations. Known locally as agua de piña con jengibre, this tea is made using pineapple peels, ginger, and lemongrass, often enhanced with lemon juice or cinnamon. It’s not only a household remedy for bloating and inflammation, but also a widely enjoyed hydrating beverage served hot or iced depending on the season.
What sets the Costa Rican tea recipe apart is its focus on using whole, real ingredients nothing artificial, no added caffeine, and no dependency on packaged tea bags. You simply boil pineapple skins and aromatics, strain, and enjoy. This makes it especially appealing for those seeking a natural weight loss tea without the jitters.
In Costa Rica, teas are often consumed after meals or first thing in the morning as a gentle digestive reset. Ginger supports gut health and reduces nausea, while lemongrass helps flush toxins and relieve water retention. If you’re already exploring herbal drinks like bariatric seed tea or fermented ginger bug elixirs, you’ll appreciate how clean and functional this tropical tea feels.
Why You’ll Love This
Natural Wellness in Every Sip
This Costa Rican tea recipe is everything a good wellness drink should be easy, energizing, and loaded with natural benefits. The star ingredient, pineapple peel, adds subtle sweetness and digestive enzymes like bromelain that help reduce bloating and inflammation. Ginger brings a soothing kick that warms the body and supports circulation, while lemongrass adds a citrusy herbal note that’s both calming and cleansing.
But the real magic? You don’t need any fancy equipment or hard-to-find ingredients. If you’ve got a pot, a knife, and a pineapple, you’re halfway there. That’s why this recipe is so popular not only in Costa Rica, but in kitchens around the world. If you’ve loved the ease of Zepbound-friendly tea blends or the refreshing balance of Japanese Mounjaro tea, this blend brings the same simplicity with a bold tropical twist.
Hot or Iced, It Always Works
Another reason this tea earns daily-drink status? It’s flexible. Drink it hot in the morning to gently wake up your digestive system, or pour it iced over lunch for a refreshing and light detox boost. It’s naturally caffeine-free, so you can even enjoy it in the evening without interrupting sleep.
And if you enjoy the ritual of making tea, this one smells incredible while simmering like a tropical spa in your kitchen. For many, brewing this tea becomes a soothing routine, not just a recipe.
What to Serve With Costa Rican Tea Recipe
Best Times to Enjoy This Herbal Tea
The beauty of this Costa Rican tea recipe is how effortlessly it fits into your day. It’s light, caffeine-free, and deeply hydrating, making it a great choice for:
- Morning Detox: Drink a warm cup first thing in the morning to kickstart digestion, reduce puffiness, and rehydrate after sleep.
- Post-Meal Cleanser: The ginger and pineapple enzymes help soothe bloating and aid nutrient absorption, especially after a heavier lunch.
- Midday Refreshment: Serve it iced with lemon and a mint sprig as a refreshing pick-me-up instead of reaching for sugary drinks or soda.
- Evening Wind-Down: Since it has no caffeine, it works beautifully as a nighttime herbal tea to help calm the stomach and prepare for restful sleep.
If you’re already sipping on relaxing teas like bariatric seed tea or ginger detox drinks, this tea can slot right into your schedule.
Smart Pairings and Snack Ideas
This tea pairs especially well with light, tropical snacks that match its clean flavor profile. Try it alongside:
- Fresh fruit: Pineapple chunks, papaya slices, or citrus fruit make great accompaniments.
- Light breakfasts: Whole grain toast with almond butter, or a small bowl of chia pudding.
- Hydrating sides: Cucumber or jicama sticks with a squeeze of lime offer a salty crunch to contrast the tea’s sweetness.
- Cooling desserts: A small serving of juicy pineapple heaven cake turns this into a naturally sweet treat session without the sugar overload.
You can even serve it in a large glass pitcher with ice and pineapple slices as a centerpiece drink for brunches or wellness events it looks just as good as it tastes.
Nutrient Benefits and Storage Tips
Why This Costa Rican Tea Is So Good for You
This Costa Rican tea recipe isn’t just a flavorful detox drink it’s a powerhouse of natural health boosters. Each ingredient offers specific benefits that support your body’s digestion, hydration, and fat-burning functions:
- Pineapple peel contains bromelain, a natural enzyme known for reducing inflammation, aiding digestion, and helping the body break down protein more effectively.
- Ginger supports digestion, stimulates circulation, and reduces nausea and bloating making it one of the most commonly used herbs for gut health and metabolism.
- Lemongrass acts as a mild diuretic, helping flush toxins and excess water weight while giving a fresh citrusy flavor without added sugar or caffeine.
- Lemon or lime juice (if added) brings in vitamin C and adds a brightness that enhances the tea’s cleansing effects.
This blend works especially well if you’re already exploring functional teas like Japanese Mounjaro tea or Zepbound natural weight-loss recipes.
Storage Tips: Keep It Fresh and Flavorful
Once brewed, this herbal tea is easy to store and reuse throughout the week.
- Refrigerator: Store in a sealed glass jar or pitcher for up to 4 days. It may develop stronger flavor after the first day—just stir before serving.
- Serve Hot or Cold: Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave. For iced, pour over ice and garnish with citrus slices or mint.
- Freeze for Later: Freeze leftovers in silicone ice cube trays. Drop into sparkling water or green tea for an infused hydration boost.
- Avoid: Storing in plastic containers long-term, as the acidity from lemon and pineapple can degrade the material and alter flavor.
FAQ – Costa Rican Tea Recipe
Which homemade tea is best for weight loss?
Teas with natural diuretic and anti-inflammatory ingredients like ginger, lemon, pineapple, and green tea are often the best for weight loss. This Costa Rican tea recipe, with its pineapple peel and ginger combo, supports digestion, reduces water retention, and helps flush toxins naturally without harsh stimulants.
How to make Costa Rican cacao tea?
Costa Rican cacao tea is made by steeping roasted cacao shells in hot water. It has a subtle chocolate aroma with a smooth finish and contains antioxidants and theobromine for mood and energy. While not the same as the pineapple-ginger tea, both are enjoyed as part of Costa Rica’s plant-based beverage tradition.
What is the Costa Rican Tea?
In addition to herbal teas, Costa Ricans enjoy drinks like chan (hydrating chia seed juice), agua dulce (raw cane sugar drink), and fruit-based frescos. The pineapple and ginger-based Costa Rican tea is one of the most popular home remedies, especially for digestion and daily detox.
How do you make white tea for weight loss?
White tea is made by steeping young tea leaves at low temperatures (160–185°F) for 2–3 minutes. It’s rich in catechins, known for fat-burning properties. To boost its effects, add a slice of lemon or ginger. However, unlike Costa Rican tea, white tea does contain caffeine.
Can I Drink Costa Rican Tea Every Day?
Yes as long as you’re not sensitive to pineapple, ginger, or lemongrass. Start with one cup daily. If you experience discomfort, reduce frequency. It’s generally safe, light, and hydrating.
Conclusion
This Costa Rican tea recipe is a standout blend of tradition, simplicity, and functional wellness. With just a few tropical ingredients pineapple peel, ginger, lemongrass, and citrus you’ll have a deeply satisfying, naturally detoxifying drink that’s perfect for any time of day. Whether you’re focused on weight loss, digestion, or simply replacing sugary beverages with something clean and flavorful, this tea delivers.
It’s a recipe that turns leftovers (like pineapple skin) into something beautiful and beneficial just like our ginger bug recipe or bariatric seed tea. Easy to make, easy to store, and easy to love Costa Rican tea is your new favorite health ritual.
Print
Costa Rican Tea Recipe for Weight Loss
Costa Rican tea is a tropical detox drink made with pineapple peel, ginger, and lemongrass. Perfect hot or iced for gentle weight loss support.
- Total Time: 70
- Yield: 6 cups 1x
Ingredients
Peel of 1 fresh pineapple (washed)
2-inch piece fresh ginger, sliced
1 stalk fresh lemongrass or 1 tsp dried
6 cups filtered water
Juice of 1 lemon or lime (optional)
Honey or stevia to taste (optional)
Instructions
1. Add pineapple peels, ginger slices, and lemongrass to a large pot with water.
2. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 45–60 minutes.
3. Turn off heat and steep an additional 15 minutes.
4. Strain solids and discard. Add lemon or lime juice if using.
5. Sweeten to taste or enjoy unsweetened.
6. Serve warm or chilled with pineapple or mint garnish.
Notes
Store in a glass container in fridge up to 4 days.
Can be frozen into ice cubes for future use.
Add turmeric or cinnamon stick for an extra anti-inflammatory boost.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 60
- Category: Drink
- Method: Boiling
- Cuisine: Costa Rican
- Diet: Gluten Free
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 20
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 5mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
