Nanjangud Rasabale (Musa sp. var. Nrb) - Traditional Wisdom and Scientific Insights

Introduction

Ahara holds paramount importance in Ayurveda, being considered one of the essential pillars of life.¹ According to Ayurvedic wisdom, consuming Ahara in harmony with one's Prakriti (individual constitution), Desha (environment), and Kala (time) is fundamental for maintaining Swasthya (health) and preventing diseases. The quality of Ahara, characterized by its Rasa (taste),Gunas (qualities), and Virya (potency), influences the equilibrium of Tridoshas (Vata, Pitta, Kapha) and the nourishment of Dhatus (body tissues). Ahara acts as the primary source of nourishment for Agni (digestive fire), facilitating proper digestion (Pachana) and metabolism (Dhatu Agni) of ingested food.² Adherence to Ahara Upyoga Niyama, encompassing dietary guidelines such as Ushna, Snigdha, Laghu, various Guna, Karma ensures optimal digestion, assimilation, and nourishment. Failure to observe these principles may disrupt Agni, leading to Ama (toxins) formation and Dosha imbalance, thereby predisposing the individual to various ailments. Thus, in Ayurveda, Ahara is not merely sustenance but a potent therapeutic tool for promoting Swasthya and treating Vikara (diseases), emphasizing the profound interplay between diet, Agni, and holistic well-being.³

Natural foods refer to unprocessed or minimally processed foods that are consumed in their most natural state, without additives or artificial ingredients. These foods are derived from plants or animals and are rich in essential nutrients. Unlike processed foods, which often contain added sugars, preservatives, and unhealthy fats, natural foods provide wholesome nutrition and offer numerous health benefits. Examples of natural foods include fruits, vegetables, nuts, etc. Fruits are nature's nutritious gifts, packed with essential vitamins, minerals, fiber, and secondary metabolites that are vital for maintaining good health. Plant secondary metabolites play an important role in treatment due to their diverse pharmacological properties. Secondary metabolites such as alkaloids, flavonoids, terpenoids, phenolics, and glycosides exhibit various biological activities including antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, and immunomodulatory effects. Their ability to interact with biological targets in the human body makes them valuable in the prevention and treatment of numerous diseases.⁴ The synergistic effects of these secondary metabolites, along with their relatively low toxicity compared to synthetic drugs, highlight their importance as natural therapeutic agents.

In Ayurveda, the concept of Desha is given utmost importance for the quality and efficacy of medicinal plants, influencing both health maintenance and disease treatment. Desha is considered in two main contexts, Bhumi Desha (geographical regions) and Atura Desha (site of disease within the body and mind). Medicinal plants should ideally be collected from Sadharana Desha (forests of normal land) or Jangala Desha (dry land forests), exposed to seasonal elements, and grown in clean, nutrient-rich soils near water sources, avoiding contaminated areas. Acharya Charaka and Acharya Susruta, emphasize that plants from specific regions, such as the Himalayas and Vindhya Mountains, possess unique potencies influenced by their environment. Thus, the geographical origin, local climate, and proper harvesting practices are crucial in ensuring the therapeutic effectiveness of these plants.^5,6 Geologically important foods are intricately tied to the Earth's geological processes, shaping soil composition, nutrient availability, and agricultural practices. From crops like rice and wheat dependent on fertile soils to fruits and vegetables rich in essential minerals sourced from the Earth's crust, these foods highlight the interconnectedness of geology, agriculture, and human health. One such important plant is Nanjangud Rasabale (Musa sp. var. Nrb) with high nutritional and therapeutic values.⁷

Habitat

Musa sp. var. Nrb, is a tropical plant restricted to the region of 30N to 30S of latitude. A unique banana variety native to the Nanjangud region of Karnataka, India, holds geological importance in its cultivation and growth. This variety thrives in the region's specific geological conditions, which include nutrient-rich black clay alluvial saline soil derived from optimal conditions with dry and humid climate, which could be compared with Sadharana Desha and Krishna Bhumi characterized by a mix of both Jangala and Anupa Desha features, maintaining a balance of dry and moist seasons, open spaces, and forests with Sama Doshaj prakriti. ⁸ This land, with its balanced proportions of cold, rain, heat, and breeze, ensures a natural equilibrium of doshas, making it an ideal environment.^9,10 The fertile soils of the region provide essential minerals and nutrients necessary for the healthy growth of Musa sp. var. Nrb, contributing to its distinct flavor and nutritional profile. Additionally, the region's microclimate, influenced by its geographical location and elevation, plays an important role in regulating temperature and moisture levels, further enhancing the banana's growth and development. As a result, Musa sp. var. Nrb exemplifies the close relationship between geology, soil composition, and agricultural productivity, nutritional and health benefits, highlighting the geological importance of this unique banana variety.

Morphological features

Nanjangud Rasabale stands out among banana varieties with its long, slender shape and vibrant yellow orange color when fully ripe, highlighting its unique morphological characteristics compared to other varieties.

Plant height: Musa sp. var. Nrb plants grow up to the height of about 2.5 to 3 meters, with variations depending on factors like soil fertility and environmental conditions.

Pseudostem: The pseudostem is robust and sturdy, with a diameter ranging from 30 to 50 cm. It provides structural support to the plant and houses the inflorescence.

Leaves: The leaves are large and broad, with an average length of 2 to 2.5 meters and a width of 50 to 70 cm. They have a characteristic oblong shape and a deep green color.

Inflorescence: The inflorescence is pendulous and hangs downwards from the plant's apex. It consists of several tiers of bracts, with each tier bearing clusters of flowers.

Fruit: The fruits of are medium to large in size, with an average length of 10 to 15 cm and a diameter of 3 to 4 cm. They have a distinct cylindrical shape and a slightly curved appearance. The skin is thin and delicate, with a yellowish-green color when unripe, turning goldenyellow with red freckles when ripe, with distinct aroma and flavor.

Part used: The parts used are fruit, flower, peel, stem, leaves, and pseudostem.¹¹

Rasapanchaka

The Kadali fruit is characterized by its Madhura and Kashaya Rasa, Mridu and Guru Guna, Sita Virya, and Madhura Vipaka. It is esteemed for its Balya, Dipana, and Rakta Pittahara properties, effectively pacifying Vata and Kapha doshas while enhancing Hridya, Ruchya, and Vrsya effects. The stem is Madhura and Kashaya Rasa, along with Guru and Ruksha Guna, Sita Virya, and Madhura Vipaka. It is renowned for its Balya, Dipana, and Kapha Pittahara attributes, adept at promoting Keshya, Ruchya, and overall strength. The flower presents Madhura and Tuvara Rasa, Snigdha Guna, Sita Virya, and Madhura Vipaka. It is Vata-Pittahara, Rakta Pitahara, and Kshayahara. ^12,13

Nutritional properties

In addition to the Kadali fruit, other parts of the plant also hold therapeutic importance containing various phytomolecules which possess pharmacological activities. These compounds have been studied for their potential in the management of conditions like diabetes, cardiovascular diseases and neurological disorders, etc. Further different parts of banana plant are employed in traditional medicine for treating various ailments. Overall, the therapeutic potential of different parts of the banana plant emphasizes its value not only as a nutritious food source but also as a natural remedy for promoting health and well-being. The literature review suggests that the Nanjangud Rasabale banana variety is rich in essential nutrients, including carbohydrates, dietary fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Known for its sweet taste and creamy texture, a significant source of natural sugars, offer ample dietary fiber. These bananas are particularly abundant in vitamin B6 and vitamin C. Furthermore, boast high levels of potassium, magnesium, and manganese and other essential minerals.¹⁴ The dietary fiber composition in Musa sp. var. Nrb pseudostem and flower contains high total dietary fiber content, with insoluble dietary fiber being the predominant fraction. Flower containing 70.1% and pseudostem 61.1%, with cellulose as the most abundant component. Sugars present in pseudostem and flower are primarily sucrose and arabinose, with low levels preventing their use as alternative energy sources. Additionally, Musa sp. var. Nrb is rich in vitamins, particularly Vitamin C, and contains significant amounts of essential fatty acids, notably linoleic acid, which emphasizes the nutritional value and potential health benefits. The Vitamin C content in flower and pseudostem is 9.50 mg/100 g and 8.81 mg/100 g, respectively. Linoleic acid comprised 84.8% of flowers total fatty acid content, while pseudostem contained 72.8%. Musa sp. var. Nrb is a rich source of minerals, specifically potassium. Other minerals present included sodium, calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus. These minerals play vital roles in metabolic pathways, enzyme regulation, and bone health. Micro minerals such as iron, manganese, zinc, copper, and aluminum are also present in flower and pseudostem with flower showing higher levels overall. Protein content in pseudostem (7.3%) and flower (19.3%) was marginally higher than in other banana varieties with presence of all essential amino acids.^15,16

Phytomolecules

The banana plant contains a diverse array of phytomolecules, showcasing its rich chemical composition. Among these compounds are vanillic acid, ferulic acid, β-sitosterol, daucosterol, 9-(4ꞌhydroxyphenyl)-2-methoxyphenalen-1 one, hesperitin, naringenin, gallic acid, catechol, protocatechuic acid, gentisic acid, caffeic acid, syringic acid, p-coumaric acid, epicatechin, syringin, benzyl alcohol glucoside, (6S9R) roseoside, 1.1 dimethylallyl alcohol β-glucoside, 31-norcyclolaudenone, cycloartenol, leucocyaniin, cyanidin, malvidin, pelargonidin, peonidin, hesperetin triacetate, hesperetin dihydrochalcone, naringenin pelargonidin, naringenin flavanone, umbelliferone, lupeol, gallocatechin, quercetin, myricetin, kaempferol, sinapic acid, salicylic acid, p-hydroxybenzoic acid, lutein, β-carotene, α-carotene, violaxanthin, auroxanthin, neoxanthin, isolutein, beta-cryptoxanthin, alpha-cryptoxanthin, serotonin, dopamine, norepinephrine, campesteryl glucoside, delphinidin-3-rutinoside, episesamin, methoxyanigorufone, phenyl phenalenone, pyranone, sesamin, and stigmasteryl glucoside.¹⁷

Rogaghnata

In classical Ayurvedic literature, the Kadali is esteemed for its aesthetic and spiritual values. Aesthetically, the Kadali tree is celebrated for its lush green leaves and graceful stature, which enhance the natural beauty of gardens and landscapes, creating a serene and pleasing environment. The presence of Kadali trees around homes and temples is considered a symbol of prosperity, adding to the visual appeal and positive ambiance. Spiritually, Kadali holds a sacred status and is extensively used in Hindu rituals and ceremonies. Its leaves are employed for symbolizing purity and sanctity, while the fruit is a common offering to deities, signifying fertility and prosperity. The tree is particularly associated with the goddess Lakshmi. Additionally, there is a fascinating comparison in Vedic astrology where Kadali is linked with the planet Jupiter (Brihaspati), symbolizing wisdom, growth, and expansion. This association further enhances its revered status, as guru is considered the most auspicious planet, promoting spiritual growth and prosperity. Thus, the Kadali tree embodies a unique blend of aesthetic charm, spiritual significance, and practical utility, making it an integral part of Ayurvedic tradition and cultural heritage, significantly enhancing its therapeutic efficacy by promoting both physical and mental well-being.¹⁸

In Ayurveda, Kadali is indicated in Vrana, Sidhma, Apasmara, Apatantraka, Karnashoola, Netraroga, Trishna, Daha, Grahani, Udararoga, Shwasa, Kasa, Kshata, Kshaya, Soma roga, Mootrakrichra, Raktapradara, Raktapitta and Madhumeha. The pharmacological activities of Kadali encompass a wide range of therapeutic benefits. Its various parts offer medicinal properties that have been recognized traditionally and validated through scientific research.¹⁶

Roots: The roots exhibit anthelmintic, antiscorbutic, antibilious, depurative, and tonic properties. They are beneficial in treating venereal diseases, helminthiasis, skin diseases, toothache, debility, and intrinsic hemorrhage.

Tender Leaves: These are useful in treating scabies, inflammations, eye diseases, blisters, and burns.

Fruits: Fruits possess astringent, emollient, cooling, anthelmintic, aphrodisiac, laxative, demulcent, and nutrient properties. They are effective in managing conditions like diabetes, gastritis, dyspepsia, dysentery, scurvy, bronchitis, and general debility.

Ashes from Burning Plant: These ashes have antiscorbutic, anthelmintic, and stomachic properties, making them useful in conditions like hyperacidity, colic, and verminosis.

Flowers: Flowers are astringent and beneficial for dysentery, bronchial asthma, diabetes, and menstrual disorders.

Inflorescence Axis Stem: Particularly effective for renal and vesical calculi, the stem is also recognized for its medicinal and nutritional properties.¹⁹

Pharmacological properties of Musa sp. var. Nrb

Antioxidant: In the study conducted to assess the antioxidant potential of banana pseudostem and fruit peel extracts, the results revealed significant antioxidant activity in both extracts, with the highest activity observed in the insoluble fraction, suggesting the importance of including insoluble components in antioxidant assessments. Additionally, HPLC analysis identified various phenolic acids present in the extracts, further confirming their antioxidant properties. Enzymatic antioxidant activity was also evaluated, showing notable levels of superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione reductase, and ascorbate peroxidase in both extracts, indicating their potential to neutralize reactive oxygen species and mitigate oxidative stress-related diseases.^16,20 Rasayanas, a class of Ayurvedic rejuvenating herbs, are recognized for their potent antioxidant properties, which combat oxidative stress and enhance overall health. Kadali is rich in essential nutrients and bioactive compounds such as dopamine, vitamin C, and phenolic acids, which exhibit strong antioxidant activities, by reducing the risk of chronic diseases associated with oxidative stress. Thus, bananas exemplify how rasayanas function as effective antioxidants, aligning traditional Ayurvedic practices with modern scientific validation.²¹

Antibacterial: Extracts derived from Musa sp. var. Nrb pseudostem and flower were assessed for their antimicrobial effects against six microbial strains. The evaluation involved qualitative and quantitative analyses, including observation of inhibition zones and determination of minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values. Gentamicin served as the positive control, while negative control consisted of solvent-only impregnated paper discs. Results indicated that both pseudostem and flower extracts displayed antimicrobial activity against the tested strains, with variable sensitivity levels. Most extracts inhibited Gram-negative bacteria like K. pneumoniae, S. flexneri, and E. coli, as well as Gram-positive bacteria such as S. aureus, B. cereus, and B. subtilis. MIC values ranged from 1.2 mg/ mL to 2.5 mg/mL, with ethanol extracts showing higher antibacterial efficacy than other solvents.²² In Ayurveda, the concept of antibacterial activity could be correlated with the "Krumighna" (anthelmintic) or "Jantughna" (antimicrobial) properties. These terms describe the ability of certain herbs and formulations to eliminate harmful microorganisms and parasites from the body. Classical ayurvedic literature identifies various plants and natural substances that possess these properties, emphasizing their role in purifying the body, balancing doshas, and maintaining overall health.²³

Cytotoxicity: A cytotoxicity screening conducted using the ethyl acetate extracts of flower and pseudostem of Musa sp. var. Nrb showed cytotoxicity. The study indicated that mid-polar solvent extracts of flower and pseudostem exerted cytotoxic effects on 3T3L1 cells, while polar solvent extracts showed minimal sensitivity.²² The concept of Rasayana, Kshara and Raktashodhaka properties could be corelated based on the specific cellular action required.²⁴

Thrombolytic: The thrombolytic activity assessment revealed that both extracts of Musa sp. var. Nrb flower and pseudostem exhibited moderate clot lysis activity, with flower displaying 18.30% and pseudostem showing 13.04% clot lysis, in comparison to the standard streptokinase, which exhibited 65.51% clot lysis. Control experiments with saline (negative control) showed minimal clot lysis activity at 5%.²² The Ayurvedic concepts that align with thrombolytic activity include Rakta shodhaka (blood purifier), VataAnulomana (normalizing the flow of Vata, (which governs circulation and movement), Lekhana (scraping) and Srotoshodhaka (channel-clearing).²⁵

Antidiabetic: Diabetes mellitus can be corelated with the concept of Madhumeha as described in bruhatrayi. Antihyperglycemic and antidiabetic activity aligns with the Mehaghna, Pramehaghna, Mehanut, etc. activities mentioned in classics. The previous studies suggest that the ethanol extract of banana flower reduces postprandial hyperglycemia, promotes strong inhibition of α-glucosidase and pancreatic amylase enzymes. The main active compounds identified were Umbelliferone and Lupeol, which also showed significant inhibition of α-glucosidase. Ethanol extract of banana flower and its compounds prevented various stages of protein glycation and inhibited aldose reductase. Overall, the study suggested that flower, through the presence of Umbelliferone and Lupeol, exhibited promising antihyperglycemic and antidiabetogenic effects.^26,27 This could be validated with the reference of Kadali, one of the important drugs mentioned as Mehaghna in Amradiphala varga of Bhavaprakasha Nighantu. ²⁸

Antihyperglycemic: The study results showed that the antihyperglycemic effects of ethanol extract of banana pseudostem and its isolated compounds, stigmasterol (C1) and β-sitosterol (C2), in diabetic rats were induced by alloxan. Administration of C1, C2, and ethanol extract of banana pseudostem for four weeks resulted in reduced fasting blood glucose levels and improvement in serum/urine protein, urea, and creatinine levels compared to diabetic control rats. Diabetic symptoms such as polyphagia, polydipsia, polyuria, urine glucose, and reduced body weight were alleviated in rats treated with extract, C1, and C2. Insulin and Hb levels increased, while HbA1c levels decreased. The altered activities of hepatic enzymes related to glucose metabolism were normalized by extract, C1, and C2. Additionally, increased hepatic glycogen levels and regeneration of β-cells were observed in drug-treated diabetic rats. The study suggests that extract, possibly in combination with C1 and C2, enhances glycolytic activity and hepatic glucose utilization, leading to increased insulin secretion and improved diabetic symptoms.²⁹

Urolithiasis: The therapeutic efficacy of Musa sp. var. Nrb, in urolithiasis is a focal point of research, highlighting its potential as a natural remedy for kidney and urinary tract disorders. The previous studies suggest that beta-sitosterol from Musa sp. var. Nrb, a phytosterol with notable antioxidant properties, holds promise in combating urolithiasis. It stabilizes cellular integrity and targets claudin-like proteins in Drosophila, providing a mechanism for preventing kidney stone formation. Through a phyto-lithomic approach, molecular docking and dynamics studies have elucidated its binding efficiency with Drosophila claudin proteins. This highlights the importance of banana plant in traditional medicine and presents novel therapeutic strategies for managing urolithiasis.³⁰ Kadali Kshara possesses Ushana, Tikshana, Pachana, Darana, Mutral, Shodhana, and Ropana properties. These attributes enable Kadali Kshara to effectively address Kaphavataja Sanghata, the primary Doshas involved in the pathogenesis of Mutrashmari. The Ushna and Tikshana properties counteract Kapha and Vata, alleviating pain by dispersing the dosha vitiation. The Pachana and Darana properties facilitate the breakdown and dissolution of the stone, through Ashmarighna property. Shodhana and Mutrala properties aid in expelling the stones from the urinary tract, thereby alleviating burning sensation during urination due to their diuretic action. Additionally, the Ropana property helps in reducing hematuria.³¹

Diabetic neuropathy: The study was done on Drosophila model targeting the Imd pathway receptor 2F2L in the midgut. The Imd pathway plays a crucial role in immune signaling influenced by gut bacteria. Anti-diabetic compounds from Musa. sp. var. Nrb (lupeol, stigmasterol, β-sitosterol, and umbelliferone) were repurposed for inhibiting the Imd pathway. Molecular docking and dynamics simulations of various complexes elucidated the inhibitory potential of these compounds. Among them, lupeol and umbelliferone emerged as promising inhibitors with high stability and functionality. This study sheds light on dysbiosis mitigation through Musa. sp. var. Nrb molecules and identifies potential compounds (lupeol and umbelliferone) for microbial dysbiosis and related pathologies such as diabetes and diabetic neuropathy.³² Poorly managed Prameha for a prolonged duration leads to the secondary complications called Upadrava. As there is no direct reference of diabetic neuropathy in Ayurveda, it can be corelated to the Prameha Upadrava Lakshana, such as Ruja, Daha, Harsha and Supta. ³³

Conclusion

The profound insights of Ayurveda emphasize the fundamental importance of Ahara in maintaining optimal health and preventing diseases considering one's Agni, Prakriti, Desha, and Kala. One such important Ahara padartha or natural foods is Kadali. Nanjangud Rasabale banana variety, epitomizes nutritionally dense properties that offer numerous health benefits compared to other banana varieties. With a rich array of essential nutrients, including carbohydrates, dietary fiber, vitamins, and minerals, Musa sp. var. Nrb contributes significantly to a balanced diet. Moreover, their secondary metabolites, pharmacological properties, and therapeutic potential highlight their value beyond mere sustenance. The geological significance of the Nanjangud region in fostering the growth of this unique banana variety highlights the interplay between geology, agriculture, and human health. Furthermore, traditional Ayurvedic wisdom recognizes the therapeutic properties of various parts of banana plant, affirming its status as both a nutritious food source and a natural remedy for promoting health. Scientific investigations into the pharmacological properties of Musa sp. var. Nrb, further validate its potential in combating oxidative stress, microbial infections, cytotoxicity, thrombosis, urolithiasis and metabolic disorders like diabetes and its complications. Overall, this comprehensive review emphasizes the multifaceted benefits of incorporating Nanjangud Rasabale into dietary practices, aligning with Ayurvedic principles to enhance overall health and vitality.

Conflict of Interest

None