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| - Last Updated on August 29, 2024 by Neelam Singh
Quick Take
A social media post claims that drinking banana peel tea can help with insomnia and improve sleep. We fact checked and found the claim to be False.
The Claim
An Instagram post by @waistlinewarriors1 features a video on how to make banana peel tea, accompanied by a voice-over claiming that this tea can help in insomnia.
Fact Check
Is banana peel edible?
Banana peels are indeed edible. In many cultures, banana peels are used in cooking and are considered a nutritious component of the fruit. They are rich in dietary fiber, vitamins (such as vitamins B6 and B12), and antioxidants. Despite this, banana peels are not commonly consumed in Western diets, where they are often discarded.
The texture and taste of banana peels can be somewhat unappealing when eaten raw, as they are tough and have a slightly bitter flavour. However, cooking banana peels can significantly improve their palatability. They can be boiled, fried, or incorporated into dishes such as curries and stir-fries. Cooking helps soften the peel and reduces its bitterness, making it more enjoyable to eat.
What is the nutritional value of banana peels?
The nutritional content of banana peels varies depending on the type of banana and its ripeness. Plantain peels generally have less fiber compared to dessert banana peels, and their lignin content increases as they ripen. Dried banana peels contain 6–9% protein and 20–30% fiber. Green plantain peels have about 40% starch, which converts to sugars as they ripen, whereas green banana peels have about 15% starch, and ripe banana peels can have up to 30% free sugars. Banana peels are used in various applications such as water purification, ethanol production, cellulase, laccase, and as fertilizers.
What is the chemical composition of banana peels?
Banana peels contain a variety of nutrients and minerals including crude proteins (1.95%), crude fat (5.93%), and carbohydrates (11.82%). Key minerals found in banana peels include phosphorus, iron, calcium, magnesium, and sodium. Zinc, copper, potassium, and manganese are present in lower concentrations. There is variation in the content of these minerals depending on the banana variety. For instance, different banana varieties can have differing levels of iron, calcium, and polyphenols. Banana peels also contain phenolic compounds, such as gallocatechin and anthocyanins, as well as carotenoids like β-carotene and lutein. Additionally, banana peels include sterols, triterpenes, and catecholamines.
Does banana peel contain tryptophan?
Yes. Banana peels contain tryptophan that could help make more serotonin, a chemical in the body that affects how our digestive system works and can influence stool consistency. However, it’s unclear how banana peel extract affects serotonin levels.
In a 2019 study, they tested how banana peel extract impacts serotonin in male Wistar rats. They used 25 rats, dividing them into five groups: one control group, one group given 5-HTP (a serotonin precursor), and three groups given different doses of banana peel extract (4 mg/kg, 8 mg/kg, and 16 mg/kg).
They found that the highest dose of banana peel extract (16 mg/kg) significantly increased Bserotonin levels in the rats compared to the control group. Banana peel extract at the highest dose increased serotonin levels.
Dr Pubali Chaudhuri, MBBS, MD (Psychiatry), working as a Consultant Neuro-Psychiatrist in Kolkata, West Bengal, said, “Serotonin & Melatonin are natural neurochemicals synthesized in the body from Amino Acids Tryptophan. Melatonin has a role in promoting healthy sound sleep with specific benefits on sleep quality & depth. The role of Serotonin in sleep is an effect of the calmness induced by Serotonin, often called the ‘happiness hormone’. This role of Serotonin in sleep gets more weightage in Anxiety Disorders & Depression where low serotonin is associated with poor sleep
Can banana peel tea help prevent insomnia?
No. Banana peel tea is sometimes suggested as a natural remedy for improving sleep but it cannot help prevent insomnia . The idea is that banana peels contain compounds like tryptophan, an amino acid that the body uses to make serotonin and melatonin, which are involved in regulating sleep.
While there isn’t a lot of scientific evidence specifically about banana peel tea and its effects on sleep, drinking the tea might help some people relax due to its warm temperature and soothing properties. However, if you’re looking for a proven sleep aid, there are other methods with more scientific backing, such as maintaining a good sleep routine and managing stress
We consulted Dr. Harshil Shah, a psychiatrist at B.J. Medical College and Civil Hospital in Ahmedabad, for his expert opinion. He stated, “This claim is entirely unfounded and lacks scientific support. Insomnia involves disturbances in sleep, such as trouble falling asleep or staying asleep. Sleep is governed by circadian rhythms—biological processes that cycle over 24 hours. These rhythms are primarily influenced by light and darkness, but factors like food intake, stress, physical activity, social environment, and temperature also play a role.”
Dr. Swati Dave, PhD in Food and Nutrition, Mumbai, suggests that while there is some belief that banana peel tea might aid with insomnia, scientific evidence supporting this claim is limited. Instead, she recommends consuming whole bananas, which are rich in potassium, magnesium, and tryptophan—nutrients that can promote relaxation and better sleep. It’s advisable to avoid eating banana peels due to potential pesticide and fertilizer contamination. Instead, consider composting the peels or using them as animal feed.
Dietician Kamna Chauhan from Jharkhand said, “Banana peel tea is sometimes suggested for sleeplessness due to its magnesium, potassium, and tryptophan content, which may help with muscle relaxation and sleep regulation. However, scientific evidence supporting its effectiveness for insomnia is limited. It can be safely tried alongside good sleep hygiene, a balanced diet, and stress management.”
For those struggling with insomnia, it is essential to approach banana peel tea as a complementary remedy rather than a primary treatment. Established sleep hygiene practices, such as maintaining a consistent sleep schedule, creating a restful environment, and avoiding stimulants before bed, should remain the cornerstone of any strategy to improve sleep quality. As always, consulting with a healthcare provider before making significant changes to your diet or treatment approach is advisable.
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