People always dispose of banana peels without even knowing that this so-called waste has numerous health benefits.
There are many ways in which Plantain Peels can be utilize in order to be beneficial to human health.
It is a very common act in Nigeria to dry and grind plantain peels just in order to make fufu. Plantain peels can also be included in one’s salad or sandwiches. You can grind plantain peels and also add it in your skin lotion which is believed to improve skin health.
Without delaying your time, lets first discuss the nutritional value of plantain peels below before heading over to the health benefits.
Table of contents
Nutritional Contents of Plantain Peels
The nutrients in which one can get from using plantain peels is almost the same nutrients in which plantains offers.
A study was conducted in 2020 to evaluate the possible nutraceutical benefits of the ripe and unripe plantain fruit peels.
In the course of the research, it was found that the peels included phytochemicals such as phenols, terpenoids, and cardiac glycosides.
flavonoids, alkaloids, reducing sugars, and saponins are all components of this compound.
In addition to that, they have mineral and nutrient content such as potassium, magnesium, iron, zinc, copper, manganese, and phosphorus.
Health Benefits of Plantain Peels
1. Prevention of cancer
Plantain peels contains anti-cancer properties which helps in fighting the growth of certain cancer cells growth and also help in reducing inflammation and neutralizing free radicals.
2. Possesses iron properties
Because they contain iron, plantain peels are beneficial to blood circulation and may help fight against anemia. In addition to this, it is crucial to the health of our bodies since it boosts the oxygen supply to our cells.
3. Aid with ulcers treatment
An investigation into the effectiveness of an aqueous extract of unripe plantain peel as an anti-ulcer agent was carried out on Wistar rats in a research that was published in 2014.
They came to the conclusion that since aqueous extracts of plantain peels reduced the ulcerative lesions in the rats, these extracts could be useful in the treatment of ulcers.
4. Constipation treatment
Plantain is a natural laxative that helps treat constipation in a natural way and does not have any negative side effects. Plantain peels contain a significant amount of fiber, which increases the volume and water content of stool. This, in turn, promotes bowel movement and helps to maintain regular bowel routine.
5. Dietary fiber
Peels from plantains provide a wonderful addition to a diet high in fiber. When compared to plantain peels, they have approximately twice as much fiber content. The high fiber content not only promotes digestion by minimizing painful bloating and gas, but it also helps prevent constipation, which is one of the most common digestive problems.
A research that was conducted in 2016 found that the peels of plantains are a good source of dietary fiber.
6. potassium properties
Plantain peels have a high potassium level, which makes them an ideal choice for a heart-healthy diet. Potassium is known to lower the incidence of hypertension, stroke, kidney stones, and osteoporosis. Plantain peels also have a high fiber content, which makes them a good source of fiber.
Potassium’s ability to stop the accumulation of water in the body is another way it assists in keeping blood pressure levels regular.
7. Anti-inflammatory properties
Plantain peels have been shown to contain flavonoids and tannins, both of which are known to have anti-inflammatory effects. The peels may be used in a variety of ways, including the preparation of tea and the application of the peels to the skin in the form of an ointment.
The results of a research conducted in 2022 came to the conclusion that plantain peel includes a significant number of bioactive compounds that show anti-inflammatory properties.
8. Lower blood pressure
The nutritional benefits of plantain peels contribute to a reduction in blood pressure by facilitating the excretion of excess salt from the body via the urinary tract.
This results in a decrease in the amounts of sodium found in the body’s fluids, as well as a drop of the levels of blood pressure. Additionally, this results in a reduction in the strain placed on the muscles of the heart to pump blood through the arteries and veins.
The peels of plantains are an excellent source of potassium, which is an essential mineral for cardiovascular health.
Conclusion
The possible health benefits of plantain peels are amazing. But there isn’t enough medical research on it yet to know how it affects human health. Talk to your doctor first at all times.
Before you boil or dry the peels, make sure you wash them with clean water and salt. This will help make sure there are no germs and that it is safe to eat.
