Did you know that bananas might be more than just a healthy snack? While it sounds like something out of a cartoon, some people claim that you can actually get high from bananas. Let’s explore this curious idea and learn about three ways people think it might be possible. But first, a quick disclaimer: this article is for educational and entertainment purposes only. Always use common sense and caution when trying new things.
The Myth of Banana Highs
Before diving into the methods, it’s important to understand the origins of this bizarre idea. The myth likely started in the 1960s when people were experimenting with all sorts of natural substances. A rumor circulated that banana peels contained psychoactive substances that could induce a high. While science has debunked this, the legend persists, and people still experiment with bananas in various ways.
Method 1: Banana Peel Smoke
One of the most well-known methods is smoking banana peels. Here’s how it supposedly works:
1. Peel Preparation: Take several bananas and carefully remove the peels.
2. Drying Process: Lay the peels out in the sun or use an oven to dry them thoroughly. This can take several hours.
3. Scraping: Once the peels are dry, scrape the inner white part of the peel to collect a substance known as “bananadine” (though it’s important to note that bananadine is not a scientifically recognized compound).
4. Powder Form: Allow the scraped material to dry further, then grind it into a powder.
5. Smoking: The powder is then rolled into a cigarette or smoked in a pipe.
Reality Check: Scientific studies have found no evidence that smoking banana peels produces any psychoactive effects. The supposed high from smoking banana peels is likely a placebo effect or simply a product of the imagination.
Method 2: Banana Wine
Another creative approach is to ferment bananas to make a type of banana wine. Here’s how this method goes:
1. Banana Mash: Mash several bananas until you have a thick, smooth consistency.
2. Fermentation: Add sugar and yeast to the mash, then let the mixture ferment for a couple of weeks in a cool, dark place.
3. Straining: After fermentation, strain the mixture to remove any solid pieces, leaving you with a banana-infused wine.
Reality Check: While fermenting bananas can produce alcohol, the effect you experience would be due to the alcohol content, not any unique compounds from the bananas. This method is more about making a unique alcoholic beverage rather than getting high from bananas themselves.
Method 3: Banana Tea
The third method is making banana tea, which involves boiling banana peels. Here’s how you can do it:
1. Boil Water: Bring a pot of water to a boil.
2. Add Peels: Add washed banana peels to the boiling water.
3. Simmer: Let the peels simmer for about 15-20 minutes.
4. Strain and Drink: Strain the liquid and drink the banana-infused tea.
Reality Check: Banana tea might provide some relaxation benefits due to the presence of magnesium and potassium, which can help with sleep and muscle relaxation. However, it won’t produce a high. Any calming effect is likely due to these minerals rather than any psychoactive properties.
The Verdict: Fun Myth, No High
While the idea of getting high on bananas is a fun myth, scientific evidence doesn’t support the claim. Banana peels and bananas themselves are nutritious and can offer various health benefits, but they won’t provide any psychoactive effects. Whether it’s smoking peels, making banana wine, or brewing banana tea, the effects are either nonexistent or come from other substances like alcohol.
So, enjoy your bananas in smoothies, on cereal, or as a snack, and appreciate them for their nutritional value rather than any mythical high. And remember, always approach such myths with a healthy dose of skepticism and curiosity.
