The bay leaf is from a small tree called the Laurel tree that is native to the Mediterranean region. Bay leaves have been used for culinary purposes and medicine for thousands of years, dating back to Roman times.
A recent study found a correlation between the consumption of bay leaves and type 2 diabetes and a drop in blood glucose. Participants in the study had improved insulin function and markers for heart disease. More research is needed, but the results are promising. Diabetes increases the risk of heart disease; therefore, these early findings are a good sign.
Medicinal Health Benefits of Bay Leaves
Here are some of the fantastic health benefits of bay leaves.
Bay Leaves May Prevent Candida
Research has found that the bay leaf has anti-fungal properties. In a recent study, the essential oil of bay laurel regarding candida showed promising results. The oil disrupted the adhesion of candida to cell walls. It reduced its ability to penetrate the membrane, making it a great addition to a diet to combat the condition. Researchers are studying bay leaves’ effects and ability to heal wounds. Early results have found that bay laurel extract showed improved wound healing compared to the control group. More research is needed.
Bay Leaves Aid Digestion
Researchers are studying the impact of bay leaves on the gastrointestinal system by promoting urination. Increased urination helps to release and reduce toxins in the body. Researchers have found organic compounds containing enzymes that may help to soothe an upset stomach and help with irritable bowel syndrome by lessening bloating and gas. Some researchers believe that bay leaves may also help decrease celiac disease symptoms. Bay leaves are known to provide relief by aiding in the digestion process.
Bay Leaves May Fight Some Cancers
Some recent studies have found that bay leaves may be a helpful tool in the battle against breast cancer. Early results suggest that the bay leaf could be a potential natural agent for breast cancer therapy. Cell death occurred in those that were induced with bay leaves. Another study suggests that bay leaves may help fight colorectal cancer. The bay leaf extracts against colon cancer cells slowed the growth significantly. Bay leaf extract may protect against this form of cancer during the early detection stages.
Bay Leaves Are Good For Pregnant Women
Bay leaves are rich in folic acid. Folic acid is known to protect the fetus from congenital disabilities. Research has found that there is a positive correlation between using bay leaves and an increase in folic acid consumption. According to some research, bay leaves can be beneficial for inducing pregnancy.
Bay Leaves May Improve Digestion
According to a study, bay leaves greatly influence the digestive system. Apart from giving your meal great taste and aroma, they also help digestion by reducing stomach discomfort, gastrointestinal infections, bloating, constipation, and diarrhea. By relaxing stomach muscles, bay leaves can also treat upset stomachs and soothe irritable bowel syndrome.
Bay leaves, when added to your meal, will assist your body in absorbing more nutrients and help it function properly. Bay leaf oil and bay leaf tea are also beneficial for stomach issues.
Bay Leaves May Aid in Kidney Health
Bay leaves are diuretic and have beneficial effects on the kidneys. They’ve been said to boost urination, which helps to eliminate waste from your body. According to research, bay leaves may help prevent kidney stones by lowering urease levels in the body. Furthermore, bay leaves to aid in the removal of extra salt from the body due to their diuretic properties.
Bay Leaves May Improve Heart Health
According to research, bay leaves improve heart health from two key organic compounds: rutin and caffeic. Rutin improves the capillary walls of the heart, while caffeic acid helps to remove bad cholesterol from the cardiovascular system.
Bay Leaves May Help Manage Diabetes
Bay leaves can help diabetic individuals by lowering blood sugar levels and boosting insulin function. Due to improved insulin receptor function, Bay leaves’ phytochemicals can also assist with diabetes symptoms. Regular ingestion of bay leaves was found in one research to aid with type 2 diabetes management.
Bay Leaves May Alleviate Respiratory Conditions
The respiratory system benefits from bay leaves. The essence of bay leaves can be extracted, combined, and used in the chest to cure various respiratory infections and problems. A poultice may also be prepared from the leaves and applied to the chest for one night in aromatherapy. It works in aromatherapy lines and can help loosen phlegm and remove potentially harmful microorganisms that may get stuck in your respiratory tracts.
Bay Leaves May Provide Antimicrobial Protection
Bay leaves, like all bay plants, have antibacterial and anti-fungal effects. Bay leaves fight various infections caused by fungus, bacteria, and protozoa. Furthermore, its essential oil proved effective against many foodborne germs. These qualities and their vitamin C or ascorbic acid content can free the skin from infection and irritation.
Bay Leaves May Reduce Inflammation and Enhance Wound Healing
Bay leaves have been used to treat cuts and sores for a long time. Inflammation is decreased with its application around the injury. Bay leaf oil’s anti-inflammatory properties are also attracting attention. Tejpatta oil massaging of joints helps to relieve and manage rheumatoid arthritis. Furthermore, bay leaf tea may assist with joint discomfort and inflammation reduction.
Healthy Recipes Using Bay Leaf
You may use bay leaves in various dried, crushed, and fresh recipes. Ground bay leaves, on the other hand, might be overpowering. As a result, it is preferable to utilize a whole leaf while cooking and remove it before serving. Here are several healthy meals you can try:
Cinnamon and Bay Leaf Tea
It’s a healthy weight-loss drink with the benefits of cinnamon and bay leaves antioxidants. They are essential in efficiently eliminating fat and preventing accumulation in the body. This beverage also aids in better absorption of nutrients, lowers LDL cholesterol levels, and improves HDL cholesterol concentrations.
Ingredients:
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 2 teaspoons honey (optional)
Instructions:
- Boil water in a teapot and add the bay leaves and cinnamon stick.
- Allow it to steep for five minutes before adding honey (optional).
- Pour the tea into cups and enjoy!
Water with Fresh Bay Leaves
It is a hydrating and detoxifying beverage that can help you achieve your daily water intake goals. Bay leaves contain phytonutrients, including tannins, which have diuretic effects. Furthermore, they aid in the removal of harmful toxins from the body.
Ingredients:
- 1 liter of water
- 5-6 fresh bay leaves
Instructions:
- Bring the water to a boil in a teapot and add the bay leaves.
- After boiling for 2-3 minutes, turn off the heat and allow the water to cool.
- Remove the bay leaves and drink throughout the day.
