Share Link:
When I think of spices from the Mediterranean, bay leaves come to mind! Bay leaf is often associated with the "bouquet garni", which is a bunch of aromatic herbs and vegetables, consisting of thyme, sage, savory, celery and basil, which is often used in various dishes, both in the oven and in pots. Bay leaves can also be added as an ingredient in various sauces, brewed as an herbal tea, and even used to flavor sweet dishes including custard!
Medicinally, bay leaf has astringent, diuretic, and appetite stimulating properties, and is often used in a number of topical applications. Of course, the bay leaf is a healthy leaf, and here are some of its key health benefits!
Bay leaf can speed up healing!
Research 2006 at BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine found that rats given 200mg of bay leaf extract per kilogram of body weight experienced accelerated wound healing and closure over a period of 10 days. Bay leaf was later found to be an antimicrobial agent against some of the most common pathogens, including Staphylococcus and Streptococcus!
Bay leaf can improve insulin function!
In 2009
A study regarding the effects of type 2 diabetes found that those who received 2-3 grams of bay leaf infusion per day for 30 days experienced a decrease in blood glucose, cholesterol, and triglyceride levels. Bay leaf can be used to clear sinuses!
The essential oil of bay leaves can be made as an ointment that you rub on your chest. Weakens phlegm and kills dangerous bacteria that are in the respiratory tract.
Bay leaf promotes good digestion.
In many ways, bay leaves play a big role in the digestive system.
As a diuretic by inducing the urge to urinate, bay leaf allows you to get rid of toxins in the most natural ways! Calms and can help with fatigue and anxiety
Burning a bay leaf releases a combination of chemicals that produce a calming effect.
Bay leaf has a very useful aroma. It's not surprising to see it hanging out to dry in many homes.
Source