An edible component of the tropical species of the banana tree is the banana flower or banana blossom (Musa acuminata). This dark red-orange or maroon-hue cone-shaped blossom can be eaten raw or cooked in curries, salads, cutlets, and soups. The flower’s florets and core, are acquired by pealing the outer petals, from the edible parts of the flower.
These non-edible outer petals can be used as serving trays. Regardless of their fruity origin, banana flowers are used as a vegetable in most cuisines. It tastes floral and delicious. Remove the sap between the petals before eating the flower since it is bitter.
The health benefits of banana flower can be derived when it is also used to make nutritional supplements in the form of tea. On the other hand, while everyone is aware of the nutritional value and health benefits of banana stems, their leaves and flowers also offer advantages.
Consequently, one can question if the stem has any nutritional value. Do they offer any services? Let’s talk about them.
Health Benefits of Banana Flowers
Banana flowers are nutrients rich food with a variety of health advantages, which include:
1. Digestive Issues
The soluble and insoluble fibers found in banana flowers help you feel fuller for a long time and ward off constipation and other digestive issues. These fibers enhance beneficial microbes and lower the chance of developing gut cancer. They also reduce type 2 diabetes risk and blood sugar levels.
2. Plant-based Protein
What you’ll get as a health benefit of banana flowers are all of the necessary amino acids that we need each day in the form of plant-based protein. (Also read: 12 Amazing Health Benefits Of Makhana)
3. Overall Body Health
These minerals, which support a wide range of body activities, are abundant in this bloom and include calcium, potassium, magnesium, iron, copper, and zinc.
4. Lower High Cholesterol Levels
Sterols (naturally occurring plant components) found in banana flowers work to lower high cholesterol levels by blocking the gut from absorbing ingested cholesterol.
5. Reduce Prostate Inflammation and Facilitates Urination.
Because of its anti-inflammatory characteristics, banana blossom can help shrink larger prostate glands. What is responsible for the anti-inflammatory effect is Citric acid, a wide range of amino acids, and Quercetin, an antioxidant that reduces prostate inflammation and facilitates urination. (Also read: 10 Tips To Live A Healthy Lifestyle)
6. Powerful Antioxidants
Antioxidants from the banana flower, such as quercetin and catechin, as well as minerals that support bone health, help stop bone loss.
This delicate fruit has a sweet flavor and is filled with nutrients. Talking of the health benefits of Banana flowers can be used as a dietary supplement, in a variety of savory recipes, smoothies, and teas.
Health Benefits of Banana Stem
Here are some of the health benefits of banana stems:
1. Lose Weight
Banana stems are rich in fiber, which helps you lose weight by reducing your hunger and keeping you satisfied for longer periods.
2. Prevent Constipation
The fiber in banana stems aids in both weight loss and regular bowel movements, which can help treat or prevent constipation. You must drink the juice from the banana stem without filtering it to get the most fiber from it. (Also read: Singhara Benefits For Male And Female)
3. Great for Diabetics
Because it doesn’t contain sugar, the juice made from banana stems is great for diabetics. Also, it has a low glycemic index, which is crucial for people with diabetes.
4. Detox Body
Banana stem aids in eliminating dangerous poisons from the body. It is one of the best ways to purge your body of various illnesses.
5. Helps with Bowel Movements
Because it is suitable for your digestion and includes fiber, the banana stem helps with bowel movements. (Also read: Makhana Benefits For Hair Growth, Nutritional Value, Stop Hair Graying)
6. Help Prevent Kidney Stones
It is common knowledge that to get the health benefits of banana stem drinking its juice might help prevent kidney stones. The potassium in the stem prevents calcium crystals or calcium lumps from forming in the kidney. For the best benefit, it is advised to take it with cardamom powder.
7. Control Blood Pressure
As was already mentioned, potassium and vitamin B6 in banana stems help control blood pressure and lower cholesterol.
Conclusion
A kind of wild banana native to Southeast Asia produces a banana flower. It has a mild and aromatic flavor. The flower is frequently used as a supplement, steeped in water to make tea, or cooked in savory meals.
Nutrient-rich banana flowers contain a variety of minerals, fiber, and antioxidants. Recent studies suggest that it may improve bone health, reduce blood sugar and cholesterol levels, support prostate health, and promote digestive health opening you to all of the health benefits of banana flower. (Also read: Is Aloe Vera Juice Good For Weight Loss?)
Also, while we have talked about several wonderful health benefits of banana stems and highly encourage people to include them in their regular diets, some people may experience bloating, gas, or cramps if they are allergic to bananas.
Therefore, it’s best to ask your nutritionist if it’s okay for you before consuming. You can choose to drink banana stem juice or a smoothie, or you can look up some banana stem curry recipes and try cooking them.
Note: If you are taking any medication or suffering from any disease first contact your doctor to use anything for your health.