Bay leaves
– The importance of bay leaf.
– Why you should include bay leaf in your diet.
Bay leaf is an evergreen herb derived from a shrub of the family of Lauraceae and it is also native to the Mediterranean region. Bay leaf is scientifically known as Laurus nobilis.
There are other leaves that have similar appearance and aroma to true bay leaves, but they do not have the same nutrient content.
Over the years, Bay leaves are useful for culinary and medicinal purposes. Some of the most impressive health benefits of bay leaves include:
- Bay leaf has the ability to detoxify the body and slow down the aging process.
- It is also good for hair health, the chemicals and volatile ingredients in bay leaves can help to eliminate dry skin and dandruff.
- It also speeds wound healing.
Benefits of bay leaf. - Bay leaf has the ability to reduce inflammation throughout the body. They contain a phytonutrient, called parthenolide, which can quickly reduce inflammation and irritation.
- They also improve heart health, alleviate respiratory issues, optimize digestion, and prevent certain types of cancer.
- Bay leaf is also good for digestive health, it has a very strong effect on the gastrointestinal system.
- It also protects the body from bacterial infections and it helps to manage diabetes by improving insulin receptor function and regulating blood sugar levels.
- Bay leaves have soothing qualities, that is why they help with anxiety and stress. They lower the level of stress hormones in the body.
- Grind bay leaves are a form of spice that people use in the preparation of soups, stews and other dishes.
- Bay leaf is also helpful to the respiratory system. Extracts from bay leaves can help to alleviate various respiratory conditions.
However, it is important to know that only the ‘true bay leaf’ can give us these amazing benefits. Other varieties of bay leaf might not be able to supply these nutrients.