If the bay leaf is often used in the kitchen to flavor dishes, its leaf also has unsuspected aromatic virtues. And make it burn in your home will bring you several benefits.
The bay leaf is a must of the kitchen that deliciously scents the dishes in sauce and other stews. But what few people know is that it has unsuspected virtues that go far beyond the kitchen. And there is a way of using it in a house to not only transform the atmosphere, but also soothe the mind. An old practice that resurfaces and deserves our full attention.
Before being a companion of our pans, the bay leaf has a rich story that dates back to Antiquity. In ancient Greece, he symbolized victory and wisdom, and mystical powers were lent to his leaves. Today, science is again interested in this plant for its many benefits, especially through aromatherapy. Thus, burning bay leaves can create a gentle smoke that acts as a real balm for the mind. This smoke indeed contains a compound called Linalol, also present in soothing plants such as lavender and peppermint. It acts directly on our nervous system, reducing stress and promoting relaxation.
This method is particularly useful for people prone to anxiety or daily stress. Burning a few bay leaves in a well -ventilated space, you can instantly create a quieter and soothing atmosphere. The subtle perfume that emerges has almost immediate effects on body and mind. By taking a few minutes to breathe this smoke, some feel a decrease in tensions accumulated throughout the day.
But the use of the bay leaf does not stop there. If you suffer from digestive disorders, joint pain or headache, know that this sheet can also be used in decoction or poultice. This old method, although less known, is still used in certain traditions to treat different ailments. A bay infusion can thus help relieve minor digestive disorders and improve the quality of sleep.
However, it is advisable to be cautious. Burning bay leaves, although most people who are beneficial, can cause problems with those suffering from respiratory problems like asthma. Smoke can irritate respiratory tract and cause complications. It is therefore recommended to always make sure that space is well ventilated and to avoid this practice if you are sensitive to smoke.
Beyond its medicinal properties, this ancient tradition of burning bay leaf can also bring a feeling of renewal in your home. Whether you use it to purify the air, relax the atmosphere or simply for its aromas, the bay leaf turns out to be much more than a simple kitchen ingredient. It embodies a fusion of old traditions and modern benefits, ready to enrich our lives in an unexpected and soothing way.
Also, the next time you prepare a stew or a sauce, keep a few leaves aside, take a moment to burn them in a heat resistant bowl, let yourself be carried away by its perfume and savor the tranquility that you brought.