Banana stem contains vitamin B6, which helps in the production of insulin, which, in turn, helps to keep sugar levels in control. Banana stem also has a low glycemic index, which means it can be consumed regularly without the fear of increasing sugar levels. It is also helpful in increasing haemoglobin levels as it is rich in iron. Banana stem juice regulates the acidic levels of the body and helps in fertility.
The banana flower has a low glycemic index too, and can be eaten for its high dietary fibre content. Additionally, banana flower helps in controlling the production of progesterone, which can help in the prevention of spotting or cramps. It can also help in overcoming excessive menstrual bleeding and aid in fertility and weight loss. A decoction of banana flower might help pregnant women to overcome morning sickness, and, once the baby arrives, it might also help in boosting breast milk supply.
FYI, raw bananas are low in glycemic index, which makes them safe to consume when you have gestational diabetes mellitus.
Here are some recipes to help you tap into the goodness of banana stem and banana flower.
Wonder Buttermilk
This is a healthy, guilt free drink.
Ingredients
1 banana stem
200 ml buttermilk
½ tsp cumin powder
Salt, to taste
½ tsp cinnamon powder
Method
- Blend the banana stem with a little water until it reaches a paste-like consistency.
- Add the buttermilk and cumin powder, cinnamon powder and salt to taste and blend again until foamy on top. Enjoy!
anana Pancakes
Ingredients
½ cup toor dal (pigeon peas)
½ cup urad dal (split black gram )
½ cup shredded coconut
Pinch of asafoetida
Salt, to taste
½ tsp cumin seeds
Pepper, to taste
Banana flower
1 tsp oil
Method
- Soak the toor dal and the urad dal overnight.
- The next morning, blend the lentils with the shredded coconut, asafoetida, salt, cumin seeds and pepper to a paste.
- Chop the banana flower and add to the batter.
- Grease a pan with the oil and make pancakes.