Can boiling litchi shells in water improve sleep quality?
Aug 18, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Sun Lianqing
Introduction
In general, boiling litchi shells to make water has no clear effect on improving sleep quality. It can be consumed in moderation as a daily beverage but should not replace specific methods designed to aid sleep. When drinking it, moderation is important. In daily life, improving sleep quality should involve maintaining a regular sleep schedule, creating a quiet sleeping environment, and consuming sleep-promoting foods such as warm milk and millet porridge.
Generally, there is no clear evidence that drinking water boiled with lychee shells improves sleep quality. It can be consumed in moderation as a daily beverage, but should not replace dedicated methods for promoting sleep, and should be consumed in appropriate amounts. Detailed analysis is as follows:
Lychee shells are the outer peel of lychees and contain small amounts of flavonoids and dietary fiber, which dissolve into the water when boiled. Flavonoids have certain antioxidant properties and may help relieve physical stress, but there is currently no clear evidence indicating they can directly regulate sleep. Additionally, the taste of lychee shell water is relatively bland. Excessive consumption may increase nighttime urination frequency due to excessive water intake, thus affecting sleep. Moreover, lychee shells must be thoroughly cleaned to avoid residual pesticides or dirt, which could otherwise cause gastrointestinal discomfort. Therefore, consumption of lychee shell water should be controlled, and large amounts should be avoided before bedtime.
In daily life, improving sleep quality should involve maintaining regular sleep patterns, creating a quiet sleeping environment, and incorporating sleep-promoting foods such as warm milk and millet porridge. Relying solely on lychee shell water has limited effect; comprehensive adjustments are necessary to effectively improve sleep quality.
