Besides the fruit, banana flowers are also a part of the banana tree used in cooking. The flavor of banana flowers is said to be pleasant, slightly sweet. However, users should remove the resin between the petals before cooking because it has a bitter taste.

Below is some nutritional information about banana flowers, according to the health website Healthline (USA).

Banana flowers are rich in nutrients, including antioxidants, several minerals, and small amounts of protein. They are low in calories and fat and high in insoluble and soluble fiber.

Studies have also shown that banana flowers are rich in minerals such as potassium, calcium, magnesium, iron, zinc and copper.

Banana flowers also provide many essential amino acids that the body needs, and contain many antioxidants, including quercetin, catechin, phenol, saponin and tannin.

Benefits of banana flowers

Banana flowers contain several compounds that may reduce cholesterol and blood sugar levels, two factors that can increase the risk of heart disease and type 2 diabetes.

As a fruit rich in soluble and insoluble fiber, banana flowers can help improve digestive health. The fiber in banana flowers can improve the intestinal microflora, increasing the number of beneficial bacteria.

Additionally, antioxidants in banana flowers, including quercetin, have been shown to support prostate health and improve urine flow when combined with other treatments.

According to a test-tube study, the antioxidants quercetin and catechin in banana flowers may help prevent bone loss. Banana flowers are also a source of zinc, which helps prevent osteoporosis.