I love the Care2.com site. Full of information on everything from pet care to gardening, to home-made everything, I always learn something interesting that helps me.

One of my favorite topics is their "Ten Ways to Use _____" or, "Five Things you Should Know about ______". Quick and easy to read, these articles are a treasure trove of ideas and "a-ha" moments.

For instance: did you know that you can do more with bananas than just eat them? No, slipping on a banana peel doesn't count! Below are just a few of the ideas that Katie Waldeck came up with. If you have any suggestions of your own, we would love to hear them!

1. Treat Damaged Hair. Dr. Oz wanted to find out what the best way was to treat damaged hair. Surprise! Use bananas.

•  Puree bananas: 1-2 for short hair, more for longer hair.
•  Massage into hair
•  Leave in for 15 minutes
•  Rise out
•  Result? Beautiful, silky soft hair. I tried it!

2. Whiten Teeth. Dying for some pearly whites? Rub banana peel on your teeth for about two minutes every time you brush and you'll be well on your way to that perfect smile.

3. Treat Insect Bites. Rub some banana peels on the bites to alleviate the itch.

4. Treat Warts. Bananas are rich in potassium, which is said to help treat warts.

5. Treat Bruises, Cuts, and Scrapes. Potassium also helps with the healing process for cuts, scrapes, and bruises.

6. Get Rid of Splinters. Can't get that pesky splinter out of your skin? Luckily, if you press banana peels onto the splinter, the fruit's natural enzymes will work to get that sucker out.

7. Attract Birds & Butterflies. Like humans, birds and butterflies just love the taste of bananas. If you'd like to watch birds, leave a banana out.

8. Polish Leather & Silver. No need to invest in pricey, and often toxic, leather and silver cleaners. Instead, rub banana peels on the surface and buff with a cloth.

9. Combat Aphids. Nobody likes a damaged plant. Bury some cut up banana peels 2-3 inches deep around the base of the plant.

10. Make "Ice Cream." Craving the sweet stuff but don't have the time, calories, or budget to spare? Simply blend a frozen solid banana in a food processor or blender. You'll be surprised how much it tastes like soft-serve ice cream!