Laurel is an herb native to the Mediterranean and Asia Minor. The spice has been used since antiquity by the Greeks, especially in crowns of the god Apollo, the protector of athletes, music and warriors. Widely used to season beans, soups, red meats, fish and chicken, the herb is part of the bouquet garni, also composed of leeks, thyme, parsley and celery. The bay leaf cannot be consumed raw or after cooking, but the benefits are absorbed if added at the beginning of the preparation. Learn about the properties of this powerful spice here.
1. Facilitates digestion
The laurel has enzymes that facilitate digestion, especially of proteins. Hence, the spice is great for heartburn, constipation, flatulence and acid reflux. To alleviate such problems, boil 5 bay leaves, a piece of ginger and 200 ml of water. When ready, add a drop of honey and drink the drink twice a day. The recipe is also suitable for those who are recovering from illness and have no appetite.
2. Fights colds and infections
The bay leaf compress relieves coughing, sneezing and other symptoms of colds and flu. Tea lowers fever. For these purposes, boil water for 10 minutes and add 3 bay leaves. Wet a cloth and apply it to the chest. For tea, boil 2 to 3 bay leaves in 200 ml of water and strain.
3. Relieves menstrual cramps
Bay tea helps regulate the cycle and ease cramps and other PMS symptoms.
4. It's good for the skin
Bay leaves help fight wrinkles and other skin problems. Boil two cups of water with 5 bay leaves with the container closed. When it's boiled, remove the lid and let it boil for another two minutes. Place the tea in a bowl, cover your head and inhale the steam.
5. Eliminates lice
Grind 50 grams of bay leaf, place in 400 ml of water and boil until it is approximately 100 ml. Strain the solution and put it only at the root of the hair and wait about three hours to wash.
6. Improves sleep quality
Put 5 drops of bay leaf extract in a glass of water and drink it before bed, after which you are guaranteed to have a peaceful night's sleep.
7. Insect repellent
Lauric acid is a substance that helps to repel insects. Mix 20 drops of bay essential oil and ¼ cup of water in a spray bottle and apply to skin.
8. Prevention of cardiovascular diseases
Research from the Journal of Clinical Biochemistry and Nutrition points out that 1 to 3 grams of laurel daily reduces bad cholesterol, because it expels fat from the blood. Rutin (vitamin P), salicylates, caffeic acid and phytonutrients present in bay leaf also improve heart health.
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9. Helps prevent cancer
Caffeic acid, quercetin, catechins and eugenol help prevent the formation of cancer cells. Another compound, parthenolide, prevents cervical cancer cells from spreading.
And you thought that the bay leaf was just for seasoning… Don't waste time and improve your health with the help of this herb!
With essential oil you can make the repellent and use it for other purposes.
Bay leaf contraindications
Although the bay leaf brings many benefits to our health, it is important to pay attention to some contraindications of the plant. In addition, we emphasize that you should always seek medical help when taking care of your health, to avoid worsening your condition.
The main contraindication of laurel concerns the amount to be ingested. When bay leaves are used too often, they can cause drowsiness, abdominal cramps, bowel problems, and headaches. So consume in moderation.
Another contraindication of laurel is consumption by pregnant women or women who are breastfeeding. This is because the plant causes changes in the body that can make it difficult to maintain pregnancy and milk production.
Finally, applying bay leaves to the skin can lead to the development of allergies and injuries if the person using them is allergic to the plant. In this case, it is necessary to seek medical help to treat the bruises, in addition to discontinuing use.
Based on the information presented, the uses of bay leaf are already part of their repertoire. You can use it to facilitate digestion, to fight a cold and to improve your sleep, among other qualities. But remember to check if the plant can do any harm to your body, before ingesting it. Take care of yourself!
