Banana
Banana, Banane, Banane, Plátano, Musa paradisiaca/sapientum, Kadali (कदली)
The banana (Musa paradisiaca, Musa sapientum) is one of the oldest cultivated and most widely consumed fruits in the world. Its origins lie in Southeast Asia, particularly in the regions of Malaysia and Indonesia, from where it spread to India and later to Africa and the Americas. Bananas are now a staple food in many tropical and subtropical countries and are valued both as fresh fruit and as a source of nourishment and energy.
In traditional and folk medicine, bananas are considered nourishing, soothing, and gently laxative. They are used to support recovery after illness, to strengthen the stomach, and to promote regular bowel movements. Due to their high potassium and magnesium content, bananas benefit the heart and muscles, and their natural sugars provide quick energy without overtaxing the digestive system. Other key nutrients include vitamin B6, vitamin C, fiber, and tryptophan, which promotes serotonin production and has a calming effect on the nervous system.
From an Ayurvedic point of view, the banana is considered a sattvic and mainly sweet fruit that nourishes body and mind. It increases Kapha and Pitta when consumed excessively, but in moderation it helps to build strength and stability. Ripe bananas calm Vata due to their smooth and grounding qualities, while unripe or overripe bananas can aggravate digestion. Ayurveda recommends ripe bananas for those needing nourishment or energy, especially in warm climates, but advises avoiding them during colds or when Kapha is elevated.
Ripe bananas are one of the best fruits to calm dry, airy Vata. They moisten, nourish, and provide grounding energy – especially when eaten warm or with ghee.
Generally neutral, though very ripe bananas can ferment quickly and cause mild acidity or bloating in sensitive Pitta types.
Heavy, moist and mucus-producing – bananas are best limited or avoided for Kapha, especially when unripe or taken cold. They may slow digestion and increase lethargy.
Akasha ֍ / Vayu ֍ / Tejas ֍ / Jala ֍֍ / Prithvi ֍֍֍
Rasa
sweet (madhura), astringent (kashaya)
oily (snigdha), soft (mridu), heavy (guru)
Guna
Vipaka
sweet (madhura)
Virja
cooling (shita)
Dhatu
Rasa, Mamsa, Shukra
Dryness & depletion (Vata), Tissue building (esp. Shukra & Rasa Dhatu), Bowel regularity (mildly laxative), Post-illness recovery
Kapha imbalance, sluggish digestion, Unripe bananas (astringent, constipating), Incompatible combinations (with milk, yogurt – increases Ama), Excessive daily consumption (can block Srotas)
Bananas are best enjoyed ripe and warm, especially for Vata. Stewing with ghee, cinnamon, or cardamom enhances digestibility and reduces mucus-forming effects. They can be used in baking, porridges, or spice-balanced smoothies (without milk or yogurt).
Unripe or cold bananas are heavy, constipating, and increase Kapha and Tamas. Sun-dried banana chips are lighter and more suitable for Pitta and Kapha.
Avoid combining with dairy products, especially milk or yogurt, as this creates Ama and slows digestion.
