Laurel is a type of plant that is generally used to flavor dishes. In addition, its pleasant aroma makes it an excellent companion to many meals.
According to the kitchen dictionary Larousse, the laurel comes from a bush of the Mediterranean regions. It is a leaf that is included in soups, stews and pâtés, to give flavor and aroma.
However, few people are aware of its health benefits. In the form of an infusion, it can also be used in the treatment of digestive problems such as stomach pain and flatulence.
Specifically, bay leaves are rich in potassium, magnesium and vitamins B6, B9 and C, and have diuretic action, antifungal, antirheumatic, anti-inflammatory, digestive, stimulant, antioxidant and expectorant. Likewise, they are capable of regulating blood sugar levels, and can be used to help in the treatment of diabetes, according to the specialized health portal, Tuá Saudé.
bay leaf benefits
Reduces inflammation
- An investigation published in the specialized journal of the Mexican Academy of Sciences found that bay leaf helps reduce anxiety, since it has calming chemicals.
- Bay leaves contain eugenol. This compound can act as an anti-inflammatory. Inflammation throughout the body, especially in the joints, can be reduced.
Could put kidney stones at bay
- This plant, along with other so-called medicinal plants, might act on the imbalance of an enzyme called urease that is related to several gastric disorders that give rise to kidney stones, according to the United States National Library of Medicine.
Fight high blood sugar levels
reduce anxiety
- Bay leaves would help reduce anxiety thanks to the chemical compound in the smoke that is produced when burning them.
- Laurel ends up having a calming effect on both the body and the mind.
Strengthens the immune system
- Eugenol, one of the 81 compounds contained in laurel, also acts as an antioxidant and strengthens the immune system.
- Laurel contains antioxidants, so it helps fight free radicals in the body, while it is a very important source of vitamin C, which works to protect the immune system,
- Bay leaves are a good medicine to open the airways. If people suffer from asthma or have problems with allergies, it will be an ideal ally.
How to make bay leaf tea
It has laurel
Ingredients
- 3 dried bay leaves.
- 1 cup of boiling water.
Preparation
- To prepare the tea, place the bay leaves in the boiling water and let it steep for regarding 10 minutes. and immediately followingwards drink it.
- This tea can be taken 3 to 4 times a day. In case the need is felt, it can be sweetened before drinking.
laurel and cinnamon tea
Ingredients:
- 1 liter of water.
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon powder.
- 6 bay leaves.
- 1 tablespoon of honey to sweeten.
Preparation
- Place the water in a pot over high heat and when it starts to boil add the cinnamon powder and the bay leaves, lower the heat to a simmer and leave for five minutes for the ingredients to concentrate.
- Then, remove from the heat and let it drop in temperature.
- It can be drunk hot or cold and sweetened with a teaspoon of honey.