Bay leaves are fragrant leaves from the laurel tree used as a herb. They’re available whole—either fresh or dried—or ground into a powder. The leaves are added to slow-cooked recipes, such as soups, sauces, and stews, and are removed before serving the dish. They have a floral and herbal scent reminiscent of oregano and thyme and are used more often than any other herb.

History of Bay leaves

Bay leaves have been used in cooking and medicinal for a very long time, even since antiquity. The ancient Greeks and Romans used bay leaves to build wreaths to honour their gods and to celebrate champion poets and athletes because they thought they had restorative abilities. The wreaths were made from the leaves of the bay laurel tree (Laurus nobilis), which was frequently grown on the grounds of healing temples.

Health Benefits

Bay leaves were employed in perfumes and were thought to have medical benefits in ancient Egypt. Bay leaves were utilized by the ancient Egyptians to treat a number of illnesses, such as fever and headaches.

• Improves digestion

By reducing stomach damage and encouraging urine, bay leaves may have an effect on the digestive system. This promotes kidney function and aids in the discharge of toxins from the body. Additionally, the chemical compounds in bay leaves are highly helpful in easing irritable bowel syndrome, relaxing upset stomachs, and even facilitating easy digestion of food.

• Struggles with fungus infections

It has been demonstrated that bay leaf possesses antifungal qualities that can help treat fungus-related diseases. These qualities, together with the vitamin C concentration, can shield the skin against irritants and infections of any kind.

• Able to reduce inflammation

Sesquiterpene lactones, which are found in bay leaf, are known to reduce inflammation by preventing the release of nitric oxide, one of the factors contributing to it.

• Safeguards heart health

Rutin and caffeic acid, both of which are present in bay leaves, have been shown to improve the function of the heart. These qualities can assist to lower harmful cholesterol levels and strengthen the capillary walls of the heart.

•  Treats respiratory conditions

Bay leaf is also a source of essential oil. The essential oil extracted from this leaf can be used to alleviate various respiratory conditions.

Did you Know

Just like turmeric, garlic, ginger, and bay leaves are traditionally used as insect bugs’ and pest repellent. They are a safer option compared to chemical-based repellents. It could be the smell or the essential oils from bay leaves (myrcene and eugenol) that make it intolerant to insects and pest