What to Do With Banana Peels

Contrary to what cartoons may have you believe, banana peels have far more uses than causing people to slip. The fruit peel's uses in the garden, as medicine and for personal hygiene may have you thinking twice before discarding the yellow skin.

Garden

• Banana peels have multiple uses in your home garden. The potassium-rich peels promote plant growth when added to the soil. After the plants have blossomed, a chopped banana peel can be placed at the base of the plant to deter garden pests. Also, the smooth interior of the banana peel can be used to polish house plants and leave them gleaming.

Medicine

• Banana peels are popular in home medicinal remedies. The banana peel serves as a soothing itch reliever on bug or mosquito bites. Additionally, the oil in banana peels can help with burns, cuts and abrasions. You can also use the peel to remove warts by attaching it to the protuberance.

Hygiene

• Surprisingly, banana peels can serve a beneficial purpose for beautification and hygiene. After dipping the peel in a small amount of salt, the skin can brushed over teeth to enhance whitening. The salt is unnecessary after a few days of treatment, and results can be seen within a week.