In Assamese cuisine, banana leaves are used extensively for steaming and wrapping food, particularly meat and vegetables, and are also used in religious ceremonies ("puja"). They are also used as plates and serving containers.

Steaming and Wrapping:

Banana leaves are a key ingredient in traditional Assamese cooking, used to wrap and steam dishes, a practice known as "patot dia".

Specific dishes like "Patot diya kosu thur aru Modhuxuleng" (tender leaves of colocasia and Modhuxuleng leaves wrapped in banana leaves and steamed) are a signature Assamese dish.

The Mishing tribe, for example, uses banana leaves to wrap and steam meat preparations. 

In Assamese culture, banana leaves offer numerous health benefits, including acting as a natural plate, preserving food value, and providing antioxidants, while also being used traditionally for various ailments.

Here's a more detailed look at the health benefits of using banana leaves:

Traditional Uses and Benefits:

Natural Plate and Food Container:

Banana leaves are traditionally used as plates and containers for serving food, particularly in Assamese cuisine.

Preservation of Food Value:

When food is steamed or cooked in banana leaves, it helps retain the nutrients and flavor of the food.

Antioxidant Rich:

Banana leaves contain polyphenols, which are powerful antioxidants that can help protect the body against damage from free radicals.

Potential for Disease Prevention:

The antioxidants in banana leaves may help prevent or reduce the risk of certain diseases, including Parkinson's and hypertension.

Antibacterial Properties:

Banana leaves have antibacterial properties that help prevent food from spoiling and reduce the risk of foodborne illnesses.

Digestive Health:

Banana leaves are believed to aid digestion and can be used to treat various digestive problems.

Skin Health:

Banana leaves can be used to treat skin conditions like dandruff, scalp dryness, and psoriasis.

Immune System Support:

The antioxidants and polyphenols in banana leaves can help strengthen the immune system and protect the body from infections.

Traditional Remedies:

Banana leaves are used in traditional Assamese remedies for various ailments, including coughs, colds, and fever.

Weight Management:

Eating food wrapped in banana leaves is said to help with weight management as it promotes portion control.

Other Uses:

Banana leaves are also used in religious rituals and ceremonies, and are believed to bring good luck and prosperity.