Unknown Health Benefits Of Bay Leaves

Bay leaf (scientifically known as Laurus nobilis), is a small tree native to the Mediterranean region. Laurel trees were present everywhere in the region, but changing climates have shrunk their natural growth. Though, these leaves have been a part of the culinary and medicinal world for thousands of years, dating back at least to Roman times. The uses of bay leaves include grinding the leaves into a spice to flavor soups and stews, but they are most commonly added in their whole form as a flavoring for certain Italian dishes and are then removed or used as a garnish. Whole leaves are not commonly consumed. There is no extensive range of culinary application for bay leaves, although extracts of these leaves have numerous medical uses.

Health Benefits Of Bay Leaves

With the wide range of benefits that these powerful leaves offer, it’s a mandate to include them in your diet, so let us discover them in facet.

Hair Care: If you want to improve the health of your hair follicles and eliminate dandruff, steep bay leaves in water and then rub them on your scalp after shampooing. The chemicals and volatile ingredients in them can help eliminate dry skin and dandruff.

Protect Heart Health: Caffeic acid and rutin are both important organic compounds, found in bay leaves, that enhance our heart health.

Improve Digestion: Bay leaves have a very strong effect on the gastrointestinal system, both stimulating urination as a diuretic, which decreases the toxicity of the body and stimulates vomiting when something toxic has been consumed.

Anti-inflammatory Activity: One of the most important benefits of bay leaves is their ability to reduce inflammation throughout the body. These leaves contain a unique phytonutrient, called parthenolide, which can quickly reduce inflammation and irritation when topically applied to affected areas, such as sore joints or areas affected by arthritis.

Prevent Cancer: studies has shown that the unique combination of antioxidants and organic compounds in bay leaves, including phytonutrients, catechins, linalool, and parthenolide, helps to protect the body from the effects of free radicals.

Reduce Anxiety & Stress: Linalool is often associated with thyme and basil, but it is also present in bay leaves and can help lower the level of stress hormones in the body, especially when used in aromatherapy.

Manage Diabetes: Bay leaves have been directly connected with improved insulin receptor functionand regulated blood sugar levels. For patients at risk of developing diabetes or for those who have already developed the condition, regular consumption of bay leaves can significantly lower the chances of diabetic episodes.

Treat Respiratory Conditions:  Essential oil of bay leaves extracted & mixed into a salve and applied to the chest helps alleviate various respiratory conditions. Spread it on the chest and allow it to remain overnight. Inhaling the vapor has a similar effect to aromatherapy and can loosen up phlegm and eliminate dangerous bacteria that may be trapped in your respiratory tracts.