From detoxification to blood sugar control: 5 health benefits of banana stem juice

Banana stem, the edible, fibrous core of the banana plant, is quite popular in South Indian cuisine. Not only that, its juice serves as a traditional home treatment people have used for many decades. The juice is rich in fibre, potassium and plant compounds that may help the kidneys, blood sugar, digestion and overall detoxification. Here are 5 benefits of banana stem juice...

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People use banana stem juice in traditional medicine to support their kidney and urinary system health, when they want to prevent kidney stones from forming or growing. Laboratory research demonstrates that unprocessed banana pseudo-stem juice functions as a diuretic, because it boosts urine production, while removing salt and toxic substances from the body, and prevents mineral crystals from forming into stones. The in-vitro laboratory research demonstrated that banana stem extract treatment of kidney stones resulted in smaller, lighter stones, but more research is needed on this front.

Research on banana pseudo‑stem juice shows this beverage contains specific compounds that help diabetic patients control their blood sugar levels, when doctors monitor their condition and they follow their recommended diet. Research on animals shows that bioactive compounds, including pectin, lignin and particular polyphenols help decrease blood sugar levels, while enhancing glucose utilization for glycogen synthesis and decreasing gluconeogenesis and glycogenolysis rates, that increase blood glucose. Research on diabetic models shows that banana stem preparations help control blood sugar levels, while decreasing diabetes symptoms and advanced glycation end product accumulation, but more human studies are needed before people can use this juice as a substitute for their prescribed medications.

Banana stem contains dietary fiber, including insoluble fiber that increases stool volume to help people maintain normal bowel movements. Research studies based on traditional and review articles show that people use banana stem and its juice to treat constipation, cleanse the bowels, and manage acidity. The treatment method for this remedy involves patients drinking the mixture with buttermilk in the morning because it helps with digestion and supports weight loss at a controlled rate. Consuming higher amounts of fiber leads to improved gut health, reduced constipation risk, and better feelings of fullness, so drinking banana stem juice within a high-fibre diet pattern, could support digestion.

Research findings show that banana stem juice functions as a natural diuretic, enabling the body to eliminate surplus water and metabolic waste, through increased urine production. The treatment method works to boost urine production while cleaning the urinary system, which helps prevent urinary tract infections and removes tiny mineral crystals before they develop into bigger stones. Because it is also low in calories and contains potassium and other electrolytes, moderate use of banana stem juice may support fluid balance and blood pressure regulation. However, people with kidney disease or those on fluid or potassium restrictions should only take it after medical advice.

Banana stem and sap contain a variety of plant compounds such as phenolics, flavonoids and other antioxidants, which can help neutralise free radicals, and reduce oxidative stress in the body. Studies performed in laboratory facilities show that banana stem and sap extracts contain specific compounds exhibiting antioxidant activity, anti-inflammatory properties, antimicrobial effects and limited anti-cancer properties. The combination of these extracts with proper diet and lifestyle, could help people achieve metabolic protection according to lab research. Banana stem provides immune system support and maintains blood hemoglobin levels and insulin production, while helping with weight control, however, more research is needed on this front.

Disclaimer: This article is informational only and not a substitute for medical advice