Bay laurel has been used for millennia as a spice in cooking and as a natural remedy for many ailments.
The laurel has been used for millennia as a spice in cooking and as a natural remedy for many diseases. Native to the Mediterranean, the laurel is a perennial plant with shiny, oval leaves that give off a characteristic smell. There are many varieties of bay leaf, but all of them have numerous health benefits. One of the best-known benefits of bay leaves is its digestive effect. Indeed, bay leaves contain a series of volatile compounds that help stimulate gastric secretions, thus improving digestion and preventing bloating and flatulence. In addition, bay leaf contains substances that can help reduce intestinal inflammation, thus preventing problems such as irritable bowel syndrome.
But bay leaf is not only a remedy for stomach problems. The plant is also a powerful antioxidant, thanks to the presence of flavonoids and other beneficial substances. Antioxidants help protect our body’s cells against free radical damage, which can cause premature aging and a range of chronic diseases like cancer and cardiovascular disease.
Bay laurel has proven its effectiveness as a natural remedy for coughs, bronchitis and other respiratory problems. The plant contains a series of compounds with expectorant and anti-inflammatory properties, which help clear the airways and reduce symptoms such as congestion and fatigue.
The uses of bay leaves don’t end there. The herb is also a natural anti-inflammatory, which can help reduce pain and muscle stiffness. Indeed, bay laurel has been used in some cultures as a remedy for arthritis and other musculoskeletal conditions.
Additionally, bay laurel has traditionally been used to improve skin and hair health. The plant contains a series of beneficial substances, such as fatty acids and vitamins, which can help prevent premature skin aging and hair loss. Also, bay leaf can be used as a remedy for dryness and itching of the scalp.
How to get the most out of this plant
To get the most benefits from laurel, you can use the plant in different ways. In cooking, bay leaves are used as a spice to flavor sauces, stews, soups and other dishes. For colds and coughs, you can prepare a decoction by infusing bay leaves in boiling water for a few minutes, then straining and drinking the hot liquid. In case of joint or muscle pain, laurel essential oil can be used to massage the affected area. Thus, the anti-inflammatory properties of the plant will act directly on the painful area.
In general, bay laurel is a very versatile plant with multiple benefits for human health. Although many have used it for centuries in different cultures, modern science is only beginning to understand the beneficial properties of laurel. However, it is important to note that bay leaf can interact with certain medications and is not recommended for pregnant women. Before using bay leaf as a natural remedy, it is always advisable to consult a doctor.
Although it may seem strange, putting a bay leaf under the pillow benefits our organism. It is not a question of sleeping with it, but rather of leaving it there during the hours when we are not in bed. When it’s time to go to sleep, simply take it off and rest comfortably.