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Bay leaf was
highly praised by the Greeks and the Romans, who thought that the herb was
symbolic of wisdom, peace, and protection.
The spice
contains many notable plant derived compounds, minerals and vitamins that are
essential for optimum health.
This spice has
many volatile active components such as α-pinene, β-pinene, myrcene, limonene,
linalool, methyl chavicol, neral, α-terpineol, geranyl acetate, eugenol and
chavicol. These compounds are known to have antiseptic, anti-oxidant,
digestive, and thought to have anti-cancer properties.
Fresh leaves are
very rich source of vitamin-C; provide 46.5 mcg or 77.5% of RDA per 100 g.
Vitamin-C (ascorbic acid) is one of the powerful natural anti-oxidant
help remove harmful free radicals from the body. Ascorbic acid also has immune
booster, wound healing and anti-viral effects.
Furthermore, its
fresh leaves and herb parts are very good in folic acid; contain about 180 mcg
or 455 of RDA per 100 g. Folates are important in DNA synthesis and when given
during peri-conception period can help prevent neural tube defects in the baby.
Bay leaves are
excellent source of vitamin A; contain 6185 IU or 206% of recommended daily
levels per 100 g. Vitamin A is a natural antioxidant and is essential vitamin
for vision. It is also required for maintaining healthy mucus membranes and
skin. Consumption of natural foods rich in vitamin A has been found to help to
protect from lung and oral cavity cancers.
The spice is
indeed very good source of many vitamins such as niacin, pyridoxine,
pantothenic acid and riboflavin. These B-complex groups of vitamins help in
enzyme synthesis, nervous system function, and regulating body metabolism.
Digestive Health: Bay leaves have a very strong effect on the gastrointestinal
system, both stimulating urination as a diuretic, which decreases the toxicity
of the body, but also stimulating vomiting (as an emetic) when something toxic
has been consumed. Furthermore, the organic compounds found in bay leaves are
very effective for settling upset stomachs, soothing irritable bowel syndrome, or
even lessening the symptoms of Celiac’s disease. Some of the more complex
proteins in our modern diet can be difficult to digest, but the unique enzymes
found in bay leaves help to facilitate efficient digestion and nutrient intake.
Respiratory
Conditions: When the essential oil of bay leaves is
extracted, it can be mixed into a salve and applied to the chest to help
alleviate various respiratory conditions. This can also be achieved with a
poultice made of the leaves. Spread it on the chest and allow it to remain
overnight. Inhaling the vapours has a similar effect to aromatherapy and can
loosen up phlegm and eliminate dangerous bacteria that may be trapped in your
respiratory tracts thanks to its natural antibacterial quality.
Hair Health: If you want to improve the health of your hair follicles and
eliminate dandruff, steep bay leaves in water and then rub that on your scalp
after shampooing. The chemicals and volatile ingredients in bay leaves can help
to eliminate dry skin and dandruff.
Anti-Inflammatory
Activity: One of the most important benefits of bay
leaves is their ability to reduce inflammation throughout the body. Bay leaves
contain a rather unique phytonutrient, called parthenolide, which can quickly
reduce inflammation and irritation when topically applied to affected areas,
such as sore joints or areas affected by arthritis. This effect can also be
achieved through normal consumption of bay leaf spice.
Heart Health: Caffeic acid and rutin are both important organic compounds
found in bay leaf that greatly boost heart health. Rutin strengthens capillary
walls in the heart and the body’s extremities, while caffeic acid can help
eliminate “bad” cholesterol from the cardiovascular system.
Cancer Prevention: The unique combination of antioxidants and organic compounds in
bay leaves, including phytonutrients, catechins, linalool, and parthenolide,
helps to protect the body from the effects of free radicals. Free radicals can
cause healthy cells to mutate into cancerous cells, which bay leaves are
particularly adept at preventing.
Anxiety and Stress: One of the least commonly known benefits of bay leaves is
their naturally soothing quality. Linalool is often associated with thyme and
basil, but it is also present in bay leaves and can help to lower the level of
stress hormones in the body, especially when used in aromatherapy. Excess
stress hormones can be dangerous for long-term health, so bay leaves can help
you calm down and remain relaxed even in your most high-anxiety moments.
Diabetes Management:
Bay leaves have been directly connected with improved insulin
receptor function and regulated blood sugar levels. For patients at risk of
developing diabetes or for those who have already developed the condition,
regular consumption of bay leaves can significantly lower the chances of
diabetic episodes.
A Final Word of Warning: As mentioned earlier, “bay leaf” is a commonly used term that
applies to many different plants around the world; however, to achieve all of
the health benefits listed above, it is essential that you find true bay leaf,
derived from the laurel tree, with the scientific name Laurus nobilis. Other
varieties can actually be toxic when consumed, so be certain that you’re
getting the real thing! In terms of allergies, bay leaves aren’t widely known
as an allergenic substance, but contact dermatitis and eczema breakouts have
been sporadically reported. If you’re allergic to other members of the
Lauraceae family, you will likely be allergic to bay leaves as well.
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