The banana is one of my absolute favorite fruits, not just because it is delicious, but also because it is jam-packed with vitamins and minerals that are great for my health.
However, in all my years of eating bananas, I never realized that I might actually be throwing the best (and healthiest) part of the fruit in the trash.
Just as there are surprising health benefits of potato juice, there are actually an enormous number of ways to use the peel of a banana to your benefit.
Keep scrolling for an exclusive list of these unexpected and bizarre banana peel health benefits. Who knew these peels could help lower cholesterol, eliminate wrinkles, andhelp you sleep better?
I will definitely think twice before throwing away my banana peels from now on. Instead, I might just throw one in a blender with some other yummy fruits, or rub it right on my skin as directed below!
So how exactly can you use these banana skins to positively affect your health? It’s easier than you might think…
Health Benefit #1: Stops Bug Bite Itching:
Bug bites can quickly ruin your day, as an itchy and sometimes painful distraction.
You should massage the peel on the mosquito bites to get instant relief from the itching and pain.
Health Benefit #2: Keeps You Regular:
The banana peel itself is loaded with fiber, making it an easy way to stay regular.
For those who can’t quite seem to stomach eating the entire peel, scrape out as much of the insides as you are able using a spoon.
This high fiber is great for digestion!
Health Benefit #3: Whitens Teeth
Don’t worry — you don’t have to chew on a banana peel to achieve this benefit.
According to the survey, “To whiten your teeth, simply rub them with the inner part of the peel on a regular daily basis for two weeks.
“You’ll be able to see positive results after a few treatments.”
Health Benefit #4: Reduces Wrinkles:
The antioxidants in banana peels also make them great for your skin.
Simply rub the banana peel on the desired areas of your face, and leave the residue on for a half hour before washing off. Regular “peel treatments” should lead to positive results!
Health Benefit #5: Helps You Sleep Better:
For this benefit, eating the peel is recommended. However, again, you can simply scrape the inside of the peel if the entire peel seems too daunting.
According to the survey, “Banana peels are full of lots of tryptophan that can help you get a good night’s rest.”
Health Benefit #6: Lowers Cataract Risk:
As we get older, the risk of cataracts may increase. Fortunately, eating banana peels can help.
“Banana skin contains lutein, a powerful antioxidant that protects the eye from free radicals and harmful frequencies of UV radiation from the sun.
“Lutein has been proven to reduce the risks of cataracts and macular degeneration.
Health Benefit #7: Lowers Cholesterol:
Has your doctor told you that you need to lower your cholesterol? You might want to include banana peels as part of your healthy diet.
According to the survey, “Banana peels have more soluble and insoluble fiber than what you find in the banana itself.
“Banana peels lower your cholesterol, thus helping to prevent cardiovascular disease [and] strokes.”
Health Benefit #8: Battles Warts:
When treating warts, people often turn to harsh chemicals. However, for an all-natural approach, try banana peels.
According to a survey, “Apply a piece of banana peel on the affected skin and secure with a band-aid. Leave overnight. Repeat until the wart falls off.”
