Bay leaves comes from the bay laurel plant, an evergreen shrub that grows slowly in warm climates.
Bay leaves originated as an ornamental symbol of honour and success, and were worn by both Roman and Greek emperors. Because of this, two terms were created: baccalaureate, which is the reward for earning a bachelor’s degree, meaning ‘ berries of laurel,’ and poet laureate, an honour given by a government to someone to compose poems for special events. Bay leaves- Tej patta, is also known for its age-old medicinal properties and is an integral part of Indian cuisine.
Nutritional Content: 100 grams of bay leaves contain 13 percent protein of our daily requirement, 57 percent carbohydrate, 78 percent Vitamin C, 13 percent niacin, 45 percent folate, 83 percent calcium, 537 percent iron, 30 percent magnesium, 16 percent phosphorus, 11 percent potassium, 2 percent sodium, 33 percent zinc, 46 percent copper, 355 percent manganese, 5 percent selenium, 206 percent Vitamin A, 133 percent pyridoxine, and 69 percent dietary fibre. ( Percent daily values based on a 2000 calorie diet).
Anti-bacterial effects: Bay leaves have anti-bacterial effects and can inhibit the growth of Staphylococcus aureus and E – Coli. Bay leaves fight off H – Pylori, a bacteria that causes ulcers and even cancer.
Improves digestion: The organic compounds and enzymes found in bay leaves are very effective in helping with an upset stomach, soothing IBS ( irritable bowel syndrome ) and making digestion easier. It also helps in breaking down proteins. It can promote urination and aids in the health of the kidneys.
Respiratory system: By putting bay leaves in your steam water and inhaling the vapours, it can loosen up phlegm and eliminate harmful bacteria that may be trapped in the respiratory tracts. This again is due to its natural anti-bacterial quality.
Anti-inflammatory: Bay leaves contain parthenolides, a phytonutrient, which can quickly reduce inflammation and irritation when applied to the affected joints or areas affected by arthritis.
Sleep inducer: A few drops of bay leaf extract can be mixed with water and consumed for insomnia.
Diabetes Management: Consuming bay leaves regularly in your food can help in lowering your blood sugar levels and prove effective in dealing with type 2 diabetes. Bad cholesterol levels can also be reduced by regular consumption due to rutin and caffeic acid, found in bay leaves.
Fungal infections: Bay leaf has anti- fungal properties which can combat fungal infections. Along with Vitamin C, it can protect the skin from any kind of infection and irritation.
Stress and anxiety: The presence of linalool in bay leaves lowers stress and anxiety in the body. Its natural soothing qualities help in depression too.
Dandruff protection: Steep bay leaves in water and then rub on your scalp after shampoo to get rid of dandruff.
Side effects: Monitor blood sugar closely if you have diabetes and use bay leaf as medicine.
Bay leaf may slow down the. Central Nervous System. Stop. Using bay leaf as a medicine at least. 2 weeks before a scheduled surgery.
All the best and happy healing from Naturally Dimpi.