Bay leaves give an aromatic hint to your stews, but they can actually be used for many other things.
The bay laurel tree is native to the Mediterranean, and people have used it as a natural remedy for various ailments. The leaf was considered sacred, and bay laurel wreaths were given to poets and artists for their accomplishment.
Bay leaf is often used in the perfume industry, and it’s definitely the favorite aromatic “miracle” for chefs. The leaves have an incredible healing power due to their high content of minerals, vitamins, and antioxidants.
Bay leaves offer strong anti-inflammatory, antifungal and antibacterial effect. But, burnt bay leaves are definitely part of a different dimension.
Put a few bay leaves in your ashtray, and burn them. This can easily turn into your favorite healing technique. Here are some of its health benefits:
- Headache
Bay leaves release more cineol, pinene and elemicin when burnt. Use them to relieve headaches and fatigue.
- Anxiety
Linalool fights anxiety and boosts communication. The American Association of Nurse Anesthetics says that inhaling this compound for 10 minutes can help you feel better.
- Respiratory system
Mycrene and eugenol in bay leaves cleanse lungs, and clear passages.
- Diabetes
Bay leaves are especially recommended to those dealing with type 2 diabetes. These leaves lower bad cholesterol, blood glucose and triglyceride levels.
Add them to your food to control your blood sugar, and improve your heart function. Antioxidants in bay leaves stimulate the production of insulin, and help you control diabetes.
- Heart
Rutin and caffeic acid in bay leaves enhance heart function. Rutin strengthens capillary walls, and the caffeic acid regulates cholesterol levels.
- Cancer
Antioxidants and other organic compounds in bay leaves prevent the development of cancer. Bay leaves are rich in catechins, linalool, parthenolide, and phytonutrients.
- Pain
Bay leaves relieve headache, migraine, joint pain, arthritis and toothache. Make yourself a nice cup f bay leaf tea, and give your body a strong anti-inflammatory kick. It’s an excellent analgesic.
- Pregnancy
Bay leaves are rich in folic acid, and pregnant women need it. It’s especially important in the first trimester. Folic acid provides normal development of the fetus, and prevents any impairment.
- Immunity
Bay leaves are rich in vitamins A and C which makes them excellent immunity boosters. Vitamin A protects your nose, eyes, throat, oral cavity, digestive system, and lung membranes, and prevents bacterial and viral infections. Bay leaves are also rich in zinc.
- Digestion
Use bay leaves to treat gastrointestinal issues, celiac disease and IBS. Bay leaves relieve flatulence and ease the digestion of protein.
- Dandruff
Add bay leaves to some cold water, and rinse your hair after shampooing it. You can also add 15 drops of bay leaf essential oil to your shampoo.
- Kidney stones
Bay leaf tea does wonders to those dealing with kidney infections and kidney stones. Add 5 grams of bay leaves to 200ml of water. Bring the water to a boil, and simmer until it reduces to 50ml. strain, and drink your tea twice a day.
- Insomnia
Bay leaves are the perfect remedy for insomniacs. Add a few drops of bay leaf extract to a glass of water, and drink your sleeping potion before bedtime.
Source: www.dietoflife.com