You might not have thought much of banana leaves because it’s not all the time that you need them. Even when buying a bunch of bananas, they don’t often come with their leaves, so it’s possible that some of the health benefits of these leaves are not easy to know.
The following are a few health pros of these green leafies.
Improve immunity: Health Shots claims that banana leaves, rich in antioxidants like polyphenols and flavonoids, have been found to improve immune function by inhibiting free radical formation and reducing oxidative stress.
Enhance skin health: The above source further mentions that because these leaves are rich in nutrients like protein and vitamins, they can be beneficial for skin health. “Banana leaves contain vitamins like C and A that can help nourish the skin. Vitamin C, for instance, is crucial for collagen production, which supports skin elasticity and reduces the appearance of wrinkles.”
Reduce cancer risks: According to The Chronicle, a banana leaf contains polyphenols and flavonoids, which have anti-cancer properties. These antioxidants are said to help the body fight free radicals, preventing micro-inflammations that can cause diseases like cancer, dementia, atherosclerosis, and Alzheimer’s.
Lower fever symptoms: The above source also states that banana leaves are rich in astringents and antioxidants, therefore they can reduce inflammation and fight fever through their antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antipyretic effects. “Most times, inflammations take the form of a fever. This is when the body temperature exceeds the normal limit. This sometimes happens because the immune system is fighting against an underlying disease”
Nourish hair: “If you want a perfect ingredient to nourish your hair – banana leaf is the answer. The paste from these leaves benefits hair growth and makes hair shine and gloss,” says Happy Tummy. It is mentioned that a banana leaf also helps in treating dandruff due to its acetone compound and the presence of epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), promoting hair growth and reducing hair fall.
Also see: Healthy Berry-Banana Breakfast Smoothie
