Bananas are one of the most popular fruits in the world, but most people don’t know that the peels can also be useful. Banana peels contain antioxidants and other nutrients that can be beneficial for your health, skin, and even your home.

Here are ten surprising uses for banana peels that you might not have known:.

1. Teeth whitening

Banana peels can help whiten your teeth due to the presence of potassium, magnesium, and manganese. All you need to do is rub the inside of a banana peel on your teeth for two minutes each day.

After a few weeks, you should notice a difference in the whiteness of your teeth.

2. Skin care

Banana peels can be useful for treating a variety of skin conditions, including acne, psoriasis, and eczema. The antioxidants in banana peels can help reduce inflammation and protect your skin from damage.

Simply rub the inside of a banana peel on your affected skin for a few minutes each day.

3. Composting

Banana peels are a great addition to your compost pile because they are rich in potassium and other nutrients that help your plants grow. To use banana peels in your compost pile, chop them up into small pieces so they break down faster.

4. Shoe polish

If you need to shine your shoes and don’t have any shoe polish on hand, try using a banana peel. Rub the inside of the peel on your shoes and then buff them with a clean cloth. Your shoes will be shiny in no time!.

Related Article How to Reuse Your Banana Peels

5. Wart removal

If you have a wart, try placing a piece of banana peel over it and securing it with a bandage. The potassium in the peel will help soften the wart, making it easier to remove.

6. First aid

Banana peels can also be useful for treating minor cuts and burns. The potassium and other nutrients in the peels help soothe the pain and promote healing. Simply place the inside of a banana peel on your cut or burn and leave it there for a few minutes.

7. Leather conditioner

If you have leather furniture or other items that are starting to look a little worn, try using a banana peel to condition them. Rub the inside of the peel onto the leather and then buff with a clean cloth.

The natural oils in the peel will help keep the leather supple and moisturized.

8. Mosquito bites

If you have a mosquito bite that is itching and driving you crazy, try rubbing the inside of a banana peel on it. The nutrients in the peel will help reduce inflammation and soothe the itch.

9. Polishing silver

If you have some tarnished silverware that needs polishing, try using a banana peel. Rub the inside of the peel on the tarnished areas and then buff with a clean cloth. The natural oils in the peel will help remove the tarnish and restore the shine.

10. Fertilizer for plants

If you don’t have a compost pile, you can still use banana peels to fertilize your plants. Simply bury them in the soil around your plants and they will slowly release their nutrients over time.