Is Cactus Water Good for You? 7 Health Benefits of Prickly Pear Cactus Water Explained
In the vast, arid desert, one plant stands tall as a symbol of resilience and vitality: the prickly pear cactus. But did you know that this sensational cactus is breaking ground as an exciting new plant-based hydration beverage? You probably associate the word “desert” with dryness, but prickly pear cactus water is packed with hydrating goodness. It not only quenches your thirst but also provides antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that support your overall health and well-being. From professional athletes to health-conscious individuals, everyone’s turning to cactus water as their go-to for daily hydration. Wondering why? Let’s dive into the science-backed health benefits behind this refreshing beverage’s growing popularity.
What is cactus water?
Cactus water is a refreshing, plant-based hydration drink that offers a natural alternative to coconut water and is quickly becoming a favorite in the health and wellness world. It’s made by extracting juice from the vibrant fruit of the prickly pear, also known as the nopal cactus. Full of electrolytes and nutrients, the prickly pear fruit is bright pink in color, which gives cactus water its signature pink tint. Its fruity and approachable flavor is reminiscent of fruits like watermelon or berries, with just a hint of tartness.
At Caliwater, we craft our cactus water using sustainably grown prickly pear cacti from the Sonoran Desert in Mexico, a desert wonder that thrives with 80% less water than traditional crops. Some brands turn the prickly pear fruit into a puree, but our eco-friendly process starts with creating a powder that won't spoil or stick to equipment during production. With a refreshing taste and real benefits for you and the planet, prickly pear cactus water is the perfect plant-based beverage for daily hydration.
Can you drink cactus water?
Drinking water from the prickly pear cactus fruit is healthy and hydrating. While water from some cactus species can leave you feeling even more dehydrated, the prickly pear cactus is a notable exception.
Most cacti protect themselves with acids and alkaloids–harsh chemicals that humans can’t tolerate, often leading to nausea and other side effects. But prickly pear cactus fruit is rich in important electrolytes, antioxidants, and minerals, earning its reputation as a true “desert superfruit.”
Learn more: Is Cactus Water Safe? Addressing Common Concerns and Myths
Why drink cactus water?
Prickly pear cactus water is hydrating with an extra boost of functional benefits like antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that support overall health. If plain water tastes too boring, cactus water is the perfect flavorful alternative, adding a natural, fruity twist to your hydration routine. It’s also a great substitute for other plant-based electrolyte drinks like coconut water, with fewer calories and a refreshingly light taste.
Whether you need a low-calorie electrolyte drink before or after a workout or some hangover relief after a fun night out, cactus water has you covered. It’s the perfect way to elevate the way you hydrate.
7 health benefits of drinking cactus water
In a culture full of fleeting health trends that promise big but deliver little, cactus water stands out as a natural hydration solution with real benefits. This isn’t just another health fad–it’s a refreshing, nutrient-packed beverage that offers both flavor and function. See for yourself why cactus water is here to stay.
1. Hydrates naturally
Staying hydrated is one of the most important things you can do for your health. Hydration supports digestion, skin health, weight regulation, and energy levels, making it a cornerstone of overall wellness. But plain water doesn’t provide all the electrolytes your body needs each day. Electrolytes like potassium, magnesium, and sodium play a key role in muscle control and recovery and efficient water absorption, helping prevent dehydration.
Cactus water is a natural source of five essential electrolytes, plus taurine–an amino acid that works with these electrolytes to repair and build muscle after exercise. It provides hydration beyond what water alone can offer, making it the perfect drink to fuel your workout, support muscle recovery, stay refreshed on a hot day, or meet your daily electrolyte needs.
2. Supplies antioxidants
“Antioxidants” is a popular term in the health world, but what do they do? Antioxidants are vital in preventing cellular damage by neutralizing free radicals–harmful compounds we encounter every day that can contribute to conditions like heart disease and cancer. Prickly pear cactus water is packed with a variety of powerful antioxidants that work to protect your cells and promote overall wellness. Here are a few key antioxidants found in prickly pear, and how they help keep your body healthy:
- Betalains: Reduces inflammation and protects cells from free radicals.
- Flavonoids: Supports cardiovascular health and may reduce the risk of cancer.
- Vitamin C: Boosts your immune system and aids in collagen production for stronger, healthier skin.
- Vitamin E: Protects cell membranes, promotes skin health, and may reduce the risk of heart disease.
- Taurine: Aids the muscular, nervous, cardiovascular, digestive, and skeletal systems.
- Carotenoids: Support eye and cardiovascular health and may reduce the risk of cancer.
- Selenium: Promotes healthy cells, thyroid function, and immune health.
- Isorhamnetin: Fights free radicals and reduces inflammation, promoting heart health.
Cactus water supplies each of these antioxidants, which work in harmony to protect your cells and promote long-term wellness.
3. Reduces inflammation
While inflammation is a natural and necessary response to injury or infection, chronic inflammation can contribute to issues like pain, fatigue, and mental fog. Inflammation from regular exercise can cause sore muscles, while inflammatory conditions can trigger your immune system to fight healthy tissues. That’s where prickly pear cactus water comes in.
Rich in anti-inflammatory electrolytes and antioxidants, cactus water helps soothe inflammation and promote faster recovery. If you lead an active lifestyle, the anti-inflammatory electrolytes in cactus water can prevent muscle cramping and support post-workout recovery. Incorporating anti-inflammatory foods like prickly pear into your diet can help keep inflammation in check, leaving your body energized and your mind clear–ready to take on the day.
4. Nourishes the skin
When it comes to achieving healthy, radiant skin, hydration is essential. Prickly pear cactus water hydrates from within for a youthful, glowing complexion. It improves skin elasticity, prevents dryness, and supports metabolic functions that directly impact skin health. But beyond hydration, prickly pear is also well-known in the skincare industry for the wealth of skin-loving benefits it offers.
Rich in vitamins C and E, cactus water supports collagen production, which is vital for maintaining skin firmness and reducing signs of aging. Vitamin C brightens and evens out skin tone, while vitamin E protects and repairs your skin from sun damage. With hydrating, antioxidant, and nourishing properties, cactus water is your natural ally in nourishing your skin–so you can glow from the inside out.
5. Provides fiber
In addition to electrolytes and antioxidants, prickly pear is a valuable source of fiber. Fiber is essential for healthy digestion and plays a role in regulating blood sugar and cholesterol levels. But did you know that fiber can also help you maintain a healthy weight?
Cactus water offers a low-calorie source of fiber, making it a great choice if you’re mindful of your caloric intake. It also keeps you well-hydrated, which can help you distinguish between thirst and hunger (believe it or not, dehydration is often mistaken for hunger). By staying hydrated with cactus water, you can be more in tune with your body’s needs and support your weight management goals.
6. Supports recovery
Cactus water is a great way to rehydrate when you’re feeling under the weather. The natural sugars, antioxidants, and electrolytes in prickly pear make cactus water the perfect natural remedy to flush out toxins and keep you hydrated as you recover. Two particular antioxidants found in cactus water, magnesium and vitamin C, are known for supporting immune health. Whether you’re fighting off a cold or a bug, grab a Caliwater and sip the benefits.
7. Helps hangovers
Similarly, cactus water is a natural remedy for easing the unpleasant symptoms of a hangover. Packed with antioxidants and hydration benefits, prickly pear cactus water supports liver recovery for quicker relief. While staying hydrated is key to reducing headaches, betalains work to alleviate other hangover symptoms like nausea and dry mouth. Drink Caliwater before, during (did we mention it’s great as a mixer?), or after a fun night out to minimize hangover effects the next day.
Potential side effects of drinking cactus water
Drinking Caliwater Cactus Water is a beneficial addition to any health routine. It’s low in sugar and calories, hydrating, and nutrient-rich, perfect for daily enjoyment. However, some cactus water brands add more sugar, which can offset the natural health benefits of the prickly pear with extra calories. In those cases, it’s best to enjoy cactus water in moderation.
Fortunately, Caliwater Cactus Water contains just 6 grams of sugar and 30 calories, so you can hydrate with a flavorful twist all day long.
The prickly pear cactus is also thought to help regulate blood sugar levels when consumed in large quantities. But if you’re taking a medication that lowers blood sugar, you should enjoy cactus water in moderation–consuming too much may lead to hypoglycemia.
Boost your hydration and wellness with Caliwater Cactus Water
Whether you’re looking for a plant-powered electrolyte drink with great taste, a healthy way to add some flavor to your hydration routine, or a low-calorie mixer for that party you’re hosting, Caliwater is your go-to for daily hydration with real health benefits. Enjoy Caliwater Cactus Water straight from the can, in a tasty cocktail or mocktail, or whipped up into a smoothie.
Caliwater comes in five bold, refreshing flavors–all full of health benefits from your favorite desert superfruit: the prickly pear. Choose from Prickly Pear (the OG), Watermelon, Pineapple, Ginger + Lime, and Peach Mango, or try our variety pack (we can’t choose either 🤤). Sip, savor, and feel the difference!