Health Benefits of Bay Leaf
Rose May Pimentel in Health
Dec 09, 2021 • 3 min Read
Pinoys add bay leaf, or commonly known as laurel, to foods to add flavor. It has health benefits that help address health problems and illnesses. It is a standard ingredient in savory dishes such as soups, stews, assorted sauces, and the famous Pinoy adobo. It is used as whole, dried, or ground. It is a rich source of essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
Here are some of the amazing benefits of this flavorful herb, from Organic Facts:
1. Improves Digestion
Bay leaves have been traditionally used to relieve symptoms of indigestion and other stomach-related ailments. According to a report in the Medicinal Plants of South Asia Journal, bay leaves not only add great flavor and taste to the food, but also give relief from abdominal pain, gastrointestinal infections, flatulence, bloating, constipation, and diarrhea. It is may also be used as a diuretic.
2. Can Help Relieve Respiratory Conditions
Bay leaves have strong antibacterial properties per research published in the Biological and Pharmaceutical Bulletin. When the essential oil of bay leaves is extracted, it can be mixed into a salve and applied to the chest to help alleviate various respiratory conditions. This can be achieved with a poultice made of the leaves. Spread it on the chest and allow it to remain overnight. Inhaling the vapor has a similar effect to aromatherapy and can loosen up the phlegm and eliminate dangerous bacteria that may be trapped in your respiratory tracts due to its natural antibacterial quality.
3. Improves Hair Health
Anecdotal evidence suggests that bay leaf can work wonders to treat dandruff and reduce hair fall problems. 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 in them may help eliminate dry skin and dandruff.
4. An Anti-inflammatory Agent
One of the most important benefits of the bay leaf is its ability to reduce inflammation throughout the body. It contains 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. This effect can also be achieved through the normal consumption of bay leaf spice.
5. Helps Improve or Protect Heart Health
Caffeic acid and rutin are found in bay leaves, organic compounds that may enhance our heart health. Rutin strengthens capillary walls in the heart and body’s extremities, while caffeic acid may eliminate LDL or bad cholesterol from the cardiovascular system.
6. Can Help Reduce Anxiety & Stress
Linalool is associated with thyme and basil but is also present in bay leaves. It can lower the level of stress hormones in the body, especially when used in aromatherapy. Long-term, excess stress hormones can be dangerous, and bay leaves may have the ability to help you remain calm and relax even in your high-anxiety moments.
7. May Aid in Diabetes Management
Research suggests that bay leaves might be connected with improved insulin receptor function and regulated blood sugar levels. For patients at risk of having diabetes and for those with an existing condition, regular consumption of bay leaves may significantly lower the chances of diabetic episodes.
No wonder this herb has been used for centuries almost all over the world. Go start using bay leaf and enjoy its benefits!
Stay healthy and safe!
