Depending on the varieties of plantain and banana they have different qualities.
Plantains are members of the banana family but they are starchier and lower in sugar.
The sweeter the banana: 1. the more Kapha increasing 2. Heavier to digest 3. More pitta and vata balancing 4. Less suitable during cough, cold and asthma 5. More suitable during gastritis, burning sensation and constipation and bloating.
Kadali (a variety of banana)- Musa Paradisiaca is mentioned in Ayurveda in treatments of cholera, bleeding disorder, general debility and many more ailments.
The Ayurvedic properties of a ripe banana are: Rasa/ taste - madhura, kashaya (sweet and astringent) Guna - guru, snigdha (heavy and slimy) Vipaka - madhura (sweet post digestive taste) Veerya - sheeta (cooling potency) Karma - Vatapittashamaka (reduces Vata and Pitta) and increases Kapha, balya (strengthening)
Parts used : Roots, fruit, stem and flower
Ayurvedic Medicines which contains Kadali: Himsarga taila, Balamritam, Kshara taila
Banana tree is very pious and symbolizes Lord Vishnu who is believed to be "the saviour".
At the time of marriage and other functions in the house, people usually keep two Banana plants on each side of the entrance as an auspicious symbol. Almost every part of the tree is used. For example, the leaf is the most sacred portion and would find its usage in all Vedic rituals. It is also considered to be the holiest plate to have a meal on.
In fact, in various puja ceremonies, the leaves are served as "Prasada". It is believed that offering of the leaves of Banana tree pleases Lord Ganesha. Banana as a fruit is offered to Lord Vishnu and Lakshmi.
Enjoy your banana today. With love your Lakshmi Ayurveda team