Bay Leaves Benefits [ Laurel Leaves ] | Laurus nobilis

Bay Leaves Benefits [ Laurel Leaves ] | Laurus nobilis | Possible Risks

Bay Leaves Benefits[ Laurel Leaves ]

I grew up watching the elders in the family include bay leaves, also known as laurel leaves, as in some of the unique dishes they prepare. As I grow older, I have also adopted the same practice whenever I make the same meals. Well, aside from the fact that it seems to be a tradition in the family, bay leaves are usually used in dishes for two reasons. First, the authentic taste it offers, and second, its aromatic scent affects the prepared dish. But do you know that more than these, Laurel Leaves are worthy of being part of dishes for they hold a particular set of health benefits? Yes, you have read it right. If you are interested in getting to know these health perks, this article is for you.

Amazing Health Benefits of Bay Leaves [ Laurel Leaves ] | Laurus nobilis

Anti-inflammatory Properties

The phytonutrient called parthenolide is responsible for decreasing and even removing ongoing inflammation. You have to apply it to the affected area topically and let the skin absorb it. Arthritis and other inflammation-based conditions are just some of the terms that bay leaves could treat.

Prevents Cancer

The antioxidants present in laurel leaves like catechins, linalool, parthenolide, and phytonutrients help protect the cells from oxidation and the possible growth of cancer cells. Thus, it covers an individual from suffering from the risks of developing cancer cells.

Bay Leaves Benefits [ Laurel Leaves ] | Laurus nobilis

Healthy Digestive System

Bay leaf can provide comfort for an upset stomach as well as an irritable bowel movement. It also functions as a diuretic, and frequently urinates, leading to healthy flushing out of body toxins. Vomiting stimulation is also triggered when something toxic is detected in the body. The unique enzymes found in bay leaves are fit for the overall digestion process.

Treats Menstrual Issues

When laurel leaves are taken, it helps those who have irregular menstruation. It facilitates the normal flow of menstruation. More so, it has a unique property that is proven to aid possible vaginal discharge.

Healthy Hair

Steamed bay leaves used in massaging the scalp could benefit your crowning glory because they can help ease dandruff conditions by alleviating the dryness. It reinforces the health of hair follicles, leading to much-healthy and much-beautiful crowning glory.

Healthy Heart

Caffeic acid and rutin are known to have positive effects on keeping the heart healthy. Well, these two organic compounds are present in laurel leaves. The first one is in-charged to reduce the bad cholesterol, while the second compound keeps the capillary walls healthier and more robust.

Bay Leaves Benefits [ Laurel Leaves ] | Laurus nobilis

Healthy Respiratory System

The essential oils extracted from laurel leaves can be used as chest applicants for specific respiratory discomfort and conditions. Its vapors, once inhaled overnight, could result in eliminating harmful bacteria that may be lingering around the respiratory system brought by its antibacterial effects. More so, it could loosen up the tight and uncomfortable build-up of phlegm.

Prevents Anxiety and Stress

When bay leaves are used in aromatherapy, it can reduce the anxiety and stress levels of an individual. Those who frequently experience anxiety attacks may take advantage of the specific health perks of bay leaves.

Healthy Sleep

Another Benefit of Bay leaves is it promotes good sleep. Mixing bay leaves to extract with water and drinking it before bedtime could facilitate healthy and sound sleep! So, those who are into sleeping pills may also try this one as a natural alternative to get their much-needed rest.

Healthy Skin

Bay leaves also facilitate healthy skin in a way that it functions as insect repellant. Its lauric acid content is responsible for this function. Turning the leaves into a paste form and applying it on the skin could relieve bites and stings caused by insects.

Bay Leaves Benefits [ Laurel Leaves ] | Laurus nobilis

Manages Diabetes

Bay leaves can increase one’s insulins sensitivity. When this happens, the body can naturally and healthily manage the sugar level. Those at risk of developing diabetes and those at the early stage of their diabetes condition may find the bay leaves convenient to use since they could prevent occurrences of diabetic episodes.

Possible Side Effects

Bay leaves, as well as its oil, are generally safe for consumption.
The actual leaves cannot be digested. It passes through the intestine, which may also result in throat clogging and intestinal piercings.
Those who are already taking medication for diabetes should consult their doctor first about consuming bay leaves, for it could interfere with current medications.
If there is a scheduled surgery in about two weeks, it is recommended that you stop consuming laurel leaves, for it could slow down the central nervous system when paired with anesthesia.

With all the perks of bay leaves, it is worth considering it in your following dish preparation. Just be careful about the listed health precautions before consumption. In general, I know that you will not only enjoy the unique aroma and taste of bay leaves; you can also take advantage of its health benefits.

References

Batool, S., Khera, R. A., Hanif, M. A., & Ayub, M. A. (2020). Bay Leaf. Medicinal Plants of South Asia, 63–74. https://doi.org/10.1016/B978-0-08-102659-5.00005-7
Abdulrahim Aljamal , 2011. Effects of Bay Leaves on the Patients with Diabetes Mellitus. Research Journal of Medicinal Plants, 5: 471-476. DOI: 10.3923/rjmp.2011.471.476 https://scialert.net/abstract/?doi=rjmp.2011.471.476
Sahin Basak, S., & Candan, F. (2013). Effect of Laurus nobilis L. Essential Oil and its Main Components on α-glucosidase and Reactive Oxygen Species Scavenging Activity. Iranian Journal of pharmaceutical research: IJPR, 12(2), 367–379.
Hokwerda H, Bos R, Tattje DH, Malingre TM. Composition of essential oils of Laurus nobilis, L. nobilis var. angustifolia and Laurus azorica. Planta Med. 1982;44(2):116‐119. doi:10.1055/s-2007-971415
BAY LEAVES BENEFITS [ LAUREL LEAVES] | Laurus nobilis
Damiani N, Fernández NJ, Porrini MP, et al. Laurel leaf extracts for honeybee pest and disease management: antimicrobial, microsporicidal, and acaricidal activity. Parasitol Res. 2014;113(2):701‐709. doi:10.1007/s00436-013-3698-3