Cascara: The surprising health benefits of coffee's forgotten fruit

Cascara is a beverage that shares similarities with coffee, but it is not coffee. It isn't tea either, although it may resemble it somewhat. So, what exactly is cascara, and what health benefits can it offer?

Cascara is something between coffee and tea. Although this is an oversimplification, it captures the essence of this drink well. Cascara is dried coffee cherry husks, which until recently were considered waste. It is often referred to as "coffee tea," but most importantly – it is a drink that can positively affect your health.

Dried coffee cherry husks are produced during the coffee processing stage on plantations. They were once treated as worthless waste. However, cascara beverage is an excellent alternative to traditional coffee. It has been known and consumed for centuries in Ethiopia, Bolivia, and Yemen. Generally, this drink is popular in most countries where coffee is grown.

The taste of cascara infusion is unique. It resembles a fruity brew, although it depends on the coffee variety. Its acidity gives way to sweetness – with notes of dried fruits and honey detectable. Preparing the infusion is simple. Just pour hot water over the dried husks and steep for 5-8 minutes. The drink can also be enjoyed cold.

Cascara is rich in antioxidants, gently stimulates and energises, and also improves liver and digestive system function. The ingredients in the infusion positively affect the mucous membranes of the digestive tract and support the secretion of digestive juices. Cascara also helps regulate bowel movements, detoxifies the body, and soothes inflammation in the intestines.

Drinking cascara is also beneficial for weight loss. It improves the functioning of the digestive system and speeds up metabolism and helps cleanse the intestines of residue. However, it is important to remember that excessive consumption of cascara can lead to side effects similar to those caused by too much caffeine. These can include headaches, hand tremors, a slight increase in blood pressure, trouble sleeping, and over-stimulation.