Use of banana: Top 10 common ways

Banana is not only delicious fruit, but the plant itself has many versatile uses. One can utilize every part of the plant, from the leaves to the stem.

In this article, Ecosilky will explore the top 10 uses of bananas, including producing banana fabric and unique cuisine that are sure to amaze you.

What is the use of banana tree?

Don’t overlook the stem, as it can offer many benefits in cooking, medicine, and crafts. Read on to uncover the other what is the use of banana.

1. Food and culinary uses

People use banana stem in various dishes like salads, soups, stir-fries, and curries. Additionally, they use it to prepare traditional drinks like “mor kuzhambu” in South India. 

Moreover, their stem is edible and a significant source of fiber and nutrients. Its juice can treat kidney stones and other ailments due to its medicinal properties.

2. Medicinal uses

Banana stem possesses diuretic properties, making it a valuable ingredient in Ayurvedic medicine for treating conditions such as kidney stones, urinary tract infections, and high blood pressure. Additionally, it is a rich source of fiber, which aids in digestion and regulates bowel movements.

3. Textile and paper making

Long and strong fibers compose the inner part of the banana stem, which people can extract and process to create textiles and paper. These fibers possess excellent tensile strength and softness, making them perfect for weaving. 

Countries like India and the Philippines frequently use banana plant stems in various applications due to their abundance. Textiles made from their fibers have a natural shine and distinct texture, while paper made from these fibers is highly durable and eco-friendly.

If you’re interested in purchasing banana fabric, you may want to consider the brand Ecosilky. We supply products made from natural and sustainable fabric with a focus on eco-friendly materials.

4. Construction and building material

The use of banana stem as a sustainable and eco-friendly alternative to wood for building walls, roofs, and floors in rural areas is a common practice. The tough and fibrous nature of their stem makes it an ideal material for construction. 

Furthermore, people can easily source banana stems locally, which reduces the need for transportation and minimizes the carbon footprint. This practice is particularly popular in regions where wood is scarce or expensive, such as some parts of Africa and Southeast Asia. By using banana stems for construction, communities are able to build affordable and environmentally friendly homes and structures.

5. Decorative purposes

Peeling the outer layers of the banana stem reveals a sturdy and flexible material that can be used to create a variety of decorative items such as baskets, mats, and hats. The natural green color of the outer layers adds an aesthetic appeal to the finished product. 

This practice is common in many countries with tropical climates where banana plants are abundant and the use of sustainable materials is encouraged. In addition to being visually appealing, these products of banana are also eco-friendly and biodegradable, making them a great alternative to synthetic materials.

If you want to know more about the banana fiber properties, read more here.

6. Fertilizer and compost

Farmers and gardeners use the banana stem as a natural fertilizer and compost because it is rich in nutrients such as potassium, calcium, and magnesium. By cutting the stem into small pieces and mixing it with soil, the nutrients slowly release, promoting healthy plant growth. 

Additionally, the decomposition process of the stem is relatively fast, making it an excellent addition to compost piles. Using their stems as a natural fertilizer and compost also helps to reduce waste and promote sustainable agriculture practices.

7. Animal feed

Animals, including cattle and poultry, can benefit from the nutritional value of the banana stem. The stem is a good source of fiber and minerals like potassium, calcium, and magnesium. In addition, feeding stem to animals can help improve their digestion and overall health. 

Livestock farmers commonly chop the stem and mix it with other feed ingredients to create a nutritious and balanced diet. Farmers in many countries use the banana stem as a cost-effective and sustainable feed alternative for their animals.

8. Fuel and energy source

Communities in rural areas utilize the dried banana stem as a sustainable and readily available source of fuel for cooking. People cut the stem into small pieces and dry them. Then, they use the dried stem pieces as fuel for stoves and other cooking appliances.

This practice not only provides an alternative to traditional cooking fuels like firewood and charcoal, but also helps reduce deforestation and promotes the use of renewable resources. Some communities also burn the dried stem as a source of energy to produce electricity or power machinery.

9. Traditional and cultural practices

Some communities hold cultural significance to banana stems and use them in traditional practices and rituals, such as weddings and religious ceremonies. In parts of India, for example, people offer the stem as a symbol of respect and hospitality to guests.

10. Industrial and commercial uses

The production of biodegradable plastic, biofuel, and other industrial and commercial products can utilize the banana stem as a raw material. The stem contains cellulose and lignin, which can be processed to create sustainable alternatives to traditional petroleum-based plastics and fuels.

What are the advantages of banana plant?

The banana plant is a versatile and highly beneficial plant that offers numerous advantages in various aspects. From its multiple uses in cooking and traditional medicine to its potential in industrial applications and sustainability. In this section, we will explore some of the advantages of the plant in more detail.

Nutritional value: Bananas are a rich source of vitamins, minerals, and fiber. They are also low in calories and fat, making them a healthy and nutritious food.

Versatility: The different parts of the plant, such as the stem, leaves, and fruit, can be used in various ways, including as food, medicine, and raw materials for industrial and commercial products.

Sustainability: Farmers can grow banana plants in many regions of the world since they are fast-growing and require minimal care and maintenance, making them a sustainable crop.

Economic value: Bananas are a major source of income for many farmers and communities, particularly in tropical regions. The plant’s versatility also makes it a valuable resource for various industries.

Environmental benefits: Banana plants absorb carbon dioxide from the air and release oxygen, helping to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve air quality. They also help prevent soil erosion and improve soil fertility.

What part of the banana plant is used?

The banana plant is a valuable crop that offers many benefits and uses beyond just the fruit itself. From the leaves to the stem and even the roots, various parts of their plant have different applications and benefits. Let’s take a closer look at the different parts of their plant and its uses.

Fruit: People commonly consume the fruit of this plant, either by eating it fresh or using it in various culinary applications.

Leaves: People use their leaves in cooking to wrap and steam food such as rice and fish, as well as to serve food at festivals and celebrations. Additionally, some cultures employ their leaves in traditional medicine for their medicinal qualities.

Stem: People use the inner layers of the banana stem to create textiles and paper, and they use the outer layers by peeling them to make decorative items like baskets and hats. Some cultures utilize their stem for its diuretic properties in traditional medicine.

Flower: People use the banana flower, also called a “heart,” as a vegetable in cooking dishes such as curries and salads. In traditional medicine, people use it to treat various ailments such as menstrual cramps and diabetes.

Root: Traditional medicine practitioners use the banana plant’s root to treat various ailments such as bronchitis and dysentery.

Trunk: Manufacturers use the banana plant’s trunk as a source of fiber to produce textiles and paper.

Shoots: Farmers and cooks use the shoots of the banana plant as a vegetable, either boiling or stir-frying them. Moreover, in traditional medicine, the shoots are used to treat ailments such as fever and dysentery.

Banana tree products are a diverse range of items that are derived from the versatile banana plant. From the delicious and nutritious fruit to the sturdy leaves, strong fibers, and even fermented beverages, their tree provides a wealth of resources that are used for food, textiles, paper, and more. Let’s take a closer look at some of the many products that come from this remarkable plant.

• Bananas: Of course, the most well-known product of banana trees are the bananas themselves. Its culinary applications are versatile and include both sweet and savory dishes.

• Leaves: People often use the large, sturdy leaves of the banana tree as plates or as wrapping for food, and many traditional cuisines rely on them to add flavor to dishes.

• Fiber: The bark of the banana tree contains strong fibers that people can use to create a variety of textiles, including clothing, tablecloths, and rugs.

• Juice: People can consume the sweet and refreshing juice of the banana on its own or add it to smoothies and other drinks.

• Flour: Made from ground-up, dried bananas, banana flour is a gluten-free alternative to wheat flour that can be used in baking.

• Chips: Thinly sliced and fried, banana chips make a crunchy snack that can be sweet or savory.

• Vinegar: You can use banana vinegar, a flavorful and unique condiment, in cooking and salad dressings by fermenting bananas.

• Wine: Fermented from ripe bananas, banana wine is a sweet and fruity alcoholic beverage.

In conclusion, the banana plant is an incredibly versatile and valuable resource that provides a multitude of products. From the sweet and nutritious fruit to the sturdy leaves and strong fibers, every part of their plant can be utilized in a variety of ways.

By taking advantage of the many use of banana, we can support sustainable and eco-friendly practices while also benefiting from its delicious and beneficial products.

Visit Ecosilky now to discover banana fabrics and products made from this material. Or contact us at (+84) 704 899 089 for advice on banana products and fabrics.