In Vietnam, few people consume this type of vegetable daily, and only a handful of eateries use banana stem as an ingredient, albeit in limited quantities. According to experts, banana stem is highly nutritious, offering a plethora of health benefits, and is especially safe, free from pesticide residues or food preservatives.
Banana stems command a high price in Japan, but in Vietnam, they are mostly used for animal feed. Photo illustration.
Scientist and polyclinic physician Bui Dac Sang (Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology, Hanoi Oriental Medicine Association) shared that all parts of the banana plant can be utilized for medicinal or culinary purposes. For instance, the banana stem can be used in cooking, while the fruit has both culinary and medicinal applications, be it ripe or unripe.
Even the banana leaves are incredibly useful and safe for wrapping food.
Referring to the banana stem, Mr. Sang asserted that this vegetable, also known as “moon-shaped vegetable” due to its crescent shape when sliced, is exceptionally safe and healthy. However, it is underutilized in Vietnam, mostly being fed to livestock or used as compost.
Banana stems can be finely chopped and served raw with dishes like bun rieu (vermicelli soup with crab), bun oc (snail vermicelli soup), or bun ca (fish vermicelli soup). They can also be used in salads or cooked in soups, benefiting health in multiple ways. Notably, banana stems are rich in fiber, making them ideal for those aiming to lose weight.
In addition to fiber, modern medicine has proven that banana stems contain significant amounts of potassium, vitamin B6, and other nutrients. Consuming banana stems helps regulate blood pressure, detoxify the body by promoting diuresis, and benefits those suffering from kidney stones.
Banana stems can be consumed raw or cooked and offer numerous health benefits, yet they are underutilized in Vietnam. Photo illustration.
Here are some scientifically validated health benefits of consuming banana stems:
– Weight loss aid: The high fiber content in banana stems aids in weight loss. While the recommended daily intake of fiber is 25g, those aiming for rapid weight loss can consume up to 40g/day. Fiber in banana stems slows the release of sugar and fat stored in the body. A blend of banana stem juice, ginger, and butter milk is an effective weight-loss remedy.
– Cardiac muscle strengthener: The potassium content in banana stems contributes to cardiac muscle strength. It also boosts the immune system and helps prevent diseases. Additionally, vitamins A, B6, and C offer benefits such as treating skin ailments, hemoglobin secretion, and insulin production.
– Anemia treatment: The iron and vitamin B6 content in banana stems increase hemoglobin levels in the blood, benefiting those suffering from anemia.
– Urinary tract infection treatment: Banana stems are also a wonderful remedy for urinary tract infections. Drinking banana stem juice 2-3 times a week is recommended. Other benefits of banana stems include treating complications related to the uterus, jaundice, insect bites, and heart ailments.
Mr. Sang further advised that the water from large banana stems could be extracted and consumed to help lower blood pressure and support individuals with diabetes. Despite its numerous health benefits, the banana stem is high in fiber and tannins, so it should not be consumed in excess to avoid constipation. Healthy individuals should limit their intake to 3-4 times a week, with each serving ranging from 25 to 40 grams. It is best avoided in the evening as it is a natural diuretic and may disrupt sleep.
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