13 Health Benefits and Uses of Banana Peel

1. Abundant In Antioxidants

Banana peels that are often discarded as waste material are rich in various antioxidants. They protect the cell from damage by free radicals as below:

Flavonoids reduce the risk of heart disease and cancer by neutralizing free radicals.

Amines maintain a robust immune system by combating harmful free radicals.

These antioxidants additionally help to lower the cholesterol levels and also reduce blood pressure. By lowering oxidative stress banana peels also reduce the risk of getting neurogenerative disorders. Also, they help in the detoxification process, supporting sound liver health. To achieve all these benefits, you can blend banana peels into smoothies, cook them in recipes or dry them and make banana peel tea.

2. Promotes Healthy Skin

Banana peels being rich in nutrients provide various skin benefits. Some such skin benefits include:

Rich in Antioxidants: Banana peels are rich in lutein which reduces oxidative stress which reduces premature aging and the appearance of wrinkles.

Moisturize The skin: Banana peels are best in treating dry or flaky skin being a natural moisture source. Various fatty acids and enzymes present in these peels hydrate and soften the skin.

UV Rays Protection: Although it may not be an ideal replacement for sunscreen, applying banana peels provides additional protection against UV rays.

Helps Treat Acne: Enzymes and fatty acids compounds present in the peel can fight bacteria causing acne. By applying peel to acne-prone areas appearance of pimples can be prohibited.

A Natural Exfoliation: The texture of banana peel makes them a great exfoliant. They help to remove dead skin cells. Pores, blackheads, and irritation can be prevented by applying to the skin.

3. Heart Health

Rich Source Of Potassium

As banana peels are a rich source of potassium, they can benefit heart health. Potassium primarily regulates blood pressure, which is key to maintaining a sound heart. Potassium mineral cuts off the sodium effects, the excess of which is linked to elevated blood pressure.

Antioxidant Properties

Carotenoids and polyphenols are essential antioxidants that banana peels contain which reduce oxidative stress. These additionally neutralize harmful free radicals preventing cells from damage also reducing the risk of heart disease.

Anti-inflammatory Effects

Long-term inflammation is a key to various heart diseases. Bioactive compounds along with the anti-inflammatory properties that banana peels offer, aid in reducing any inflammation and protection of blood vessels from damage.

Reduce Cholesterol

Soluble fiber limits the cholesterol to get mixed in blood flow. As LDL cholesterol is proven very hazardous to the heart, banana peels lower overall cholesterol levels and restrict plaque generation.

Improvement in Blood Circulation

In addition to various compounds, the one with vasodilatory effect improves blood circulation. After better circulation oxygen and nutrients are effortlessly delivered to the heart which reduces blood clots.

Regulation of Blood Sugar Levels

Banana peels are low in glycemic index. It means consuming them maintains a stable blood sugar level which is very necessary for heart health. In addition to that, the fiber delays the sugar intake into the bloodstream, helping to maintain steady sugar levels.

4. Aids In Weight Loss

Banana peels with various health benefits, also aid in weight loss. These peels are enriched with fiber, vitamin B6, B12, magnesium, and potassium. These nutrients reduce overall calorie intake and generate a feeling of fullness which plays a great part in weight management.

The resistant starch content of banana peel controls blood sugar levels. It also enhances fat oxidation which adds value to weight loss efforts. Peel's natural sugars are released slowly in the bloodstream, this prevents any sort of unwanted cravings for food and helps in supporting your weight management goals.

5. Boosts Eye Health

Banana peels contain numerous nutrients that can significantly boost eye health which are discussed below:

Rich Source of Lutein

Banana peels are packed with powerful antioxidants called lutein. This helps to protect the eye from oxidative stress and radical damage. Lutein-rich banana peels are proven to reduce risk of macular degeneration. It also filters out blue light emitted from screens and digital devices.

Anti-Inflammatory Properties

The anti-oxidants help in reducing inflammation in the eyes and also prevent chronic eye conditions. This can be beneficial for any irritation and stress that arise in the eyes because of long screen time or maybe certain environmental factors.

High Vitamin A

Vitamin A is very necessary to maintain sound cornea health. It prevents any dryness and irritation and keeps eyes hydrated and comfortable. It additionally is proven to prevent night blindness and ensures better visibility in low light conditions.

Promotes Healthy Blood Flow to Eyes

Consuming banana peel can improve blood circulation to the eyes and make sure oxygen and nutrients are effortlessly delivered. Proper blood flow is very important for retina health. These peels help in preserving sharp and clear vision.

6. Promotes Oral Hygiene

Natural Teeth Whitening: Banana peels contain abrasives like silica that remove stains from teeth. By rubbing the inner side of the peel makes teeth whiter and brings a brighter smile.

Anti-microbial properties: These compounds help to reduce harmful bacteria in the mouth and also lower the risk of gum disease.

Rich in Minerals: Essential minerals like potassium and magnesium contribute to strong teeth as these minerals get absorbed by enamel which prevents teeth from decaying.

Low pH level: As banana peels are slightly alkaline in nature they neutralize acids in the mouth which may lead to cavities. This balance of pH level contributes to a healthy oral environment.

7. Supports Digestive Health

High fiber content

Being rich in both soluble and insoluble fibers, banana peels add bulks to the stool. This simply makes it easy for stool to pass through the intestine. These fibers promote a healthy gut microbiome as they serve as food for gut bacteria.

Regular bowel movements and constipation prevention are additional benefits these fibers add to maintain overall gut health.

Prebiotic properties

Various research studies have proven that the prebiotic content in banana peels in an abundant manner. These prebiotics feed the good bacteria, in return generating short-chain-fatty acids that support gut health. These improve the overall efficiency of the digestive system by reducing inflammation and enhancing nutrient breakdown.

Natural Laxative Effect

The insoluble fiber in peels also acts as a natural laxative. This helps soften the stool and generate speedy waste movement in the digestive tract. Banana peels lower the risk of hemorrhoids as they reduce strain on the tract by preventing constipation.

Detoxification

By binding harmful substances to the gut, banana peels prevent mixing them in blood flow. This aids in the removal of harmful toxins from the body by supporting liver function and reduces any burden on the digestive system.

Balances Stomach Acid

The compounds in banana skins help regulate the production of stomach acid, preventing excessive acid leading to acid reflux and heartburn.

8. Assists in Wound Healing

Banana peels are impressive natural healers, particularly in treating minor cuts, wounds, and insect bites. By being rich in bioactive compounds they accelerate the healing process. Peels when applied to the skin create a barrier that prevents the skin from getting infected.

As these peels are high in moisture content, they aid in the regeneration of new skin cells. Additionally, banana peels can reduce skin irritations like rashes or sunburn and promote recovery without the need for creams and ointments.

9. Enhances Mood And Mental Health

Banana peels promote the production of serotonin, as they are rich in amino acids. Serotonin are neurotransmitter often known as "happiness hormone".  It has ability to control mood, reduce anxiety, and also provide good sleep. As serotonin levels increase, you feel a sense of good well-being.

In addition to that, banana peels also contain dopamine. This is essential for regulating mood and boosting cognitive function. Together these compounds give a natural way to boost mood and support mental wellness.

10. Provides Natural Pain Relief

Known for their natural analgesic properties, banana peels contain serotonin which calms the nervous system. Applying banana peels to the affected area of pain, such as headaches, joint pain, or muscle soreness, helps to reduce discomfort easily.

It additionally provides relieving properties which makes these peels an effective remedy choice for conditions like arthritis inflammation and pain are prevalent. Simply adding banana peels to the affected area offers a natural alternative to pain medications.

12. Promotes Better Sleep

Banana peels not only improve mood but also play an essential role in promoting healthy sleep patterns. These peels are beneficial in producing melatonin, a hormone that regulates sleep patterns. Melatonin is produced as banana peels are rich in tryptophan, a pioneer in this hormone production.

By consuming banana peels, or drinking banana peel tea before bed increases melatonin production. It is a natural remedy befitted for those who struggle with insomnia or have bad sleep patterns. Banana peels offer a natural sleep solution without the risk of dependency.

11. Supports Kidney Function

Helps Maintain Kidney Health

One of the primary reasons banana peels are essential for sound kidney function is their high potassium content. Potassium regulates blood pressure by cutting the effects of sodium, which helps the body to retain water.

These peels also play a vital role in preventing kidney stone formation. Potassium prevents the grouping of calcium oxalate, the common kidney stone, by combining it with oxalate and preventing the formation of crystals.

Antioxidant Properties

Additionally, by being rich in antioxidants banana peels reduce inflammation and protect kidney cells from damage. Also by managing electrolyte levels, potassium is vital for chronic kidney disease management.

Diuretic Properties

Some studies suggest banana peels may contain diuretic properties, that support the excretion of excess fluids and waste from the body. This process promotes urine production and stops toxins from getting grouped up. Incorporating banana peels into your diet is a natural way to support kidney function and renal health.

13. Promotes Healthy Hair

These peels are rich in potassium, magnesium, and calcium with vitamins A, B6, C, and E. These all help to maintain a healthy scalp which is a base for healthy hair growth. Peels tend to moisturize and soften hair as they contain natural oils and sugars. Banana peels when used as a hair mask provide deep conditioning and hydration.

In addition to that, silica present in these peels strengthens hair strands. This compound promotes hair elasticity and reduces breakage and split ends. Also, the antioxidants present in peels help to repair and restore natural shine. Over time regular application of these peels leads to thicker and healthier hair.

Uses Of Banana Peels

We have already discussed numerous health benefits that banana peels provide to the human body and now let's dive into the practical uses of banana skin.

Pest Repellent

Banana skins are effective in removing certain garden pests. As their strong odor acts as a natural insect repellent, cutting them into small pieces and spreading them in your garden can repel aphides and small insects.

Natural Fertilizer

As these peels are rich in nutrients, especially potassium, phosphorus, and calcium they aid in plant growth.  You can supply nutrients to your plant by adding these peels to your compost pile. This way your soil will be more fertilized and plants can absorb essential minerals efficiently.

Polishing Agent

Silverware, leather shoes, and houseplants can be polished by using the inner part of banana peels. These peels contain natural oil along with an abrasive texture, that removes dirt and scuff marks. When used on leather shoes they help to restore the shine and make it look refreshed.

Water Purification

Various studies suggest that banana peels purify water, as they remove lead and copper-like heavy metals from polluted water. Functional groups are present in peels that bind with these metals. Adding peels in polluted water and letting it steep for some days removes these metals, and water then can be used for normal culinary purposes.

Culinary Uses

Although it is less common practice these peels can be mixed in various dishes after preparation. For example, by blending into smoothies, and even used in curries, they add up a great substitute to your dish.

Meat Tenderizer

These peels can be used to tenderize meat while being cooked. You can simply place a banana peel on top of the meat in the cooking pot which helps to retain moisture and prevents meat from drying and becoming tough. The enzyme content of these peels breaks down proteins in meat, to make it more tender and flavorsome.

Crafting And Art

Banana peels can be used to make natural dyes, as light brown dye can be extracted by boiling them. This can be used in paper or fabrics for coloring purposes. It is an eco-friendly method that provides unique and earthy colors and also can be used in decorations and crafting jewelry.