Bay leaves are already widely used in cooking, but this plant has many other benefits, especially health.
The laurel tree is native to the Mediterranean, but can be cultivated in other parts of the world, including Brazil. Bay leaves are well known especially in gastronomy, being commonly used as a seasoning in various dishes, such as soups, broths, sauces, etc. Its scientific name is A noble laurel and it is very easy to find in the form of a seasoning, practically in any market.
Long before being used in cooking, bay leaves were known for their medicinal purposes. Modern studies have proven many of these effects. Therefore, this leaf is highly recommended for the treatment of various diseases.
Due to its properties, bay leaves can bring several health benefits. Such as controlling blood sugar and cholesterol levels and regulating menstrual flow. Furthermore, it has proven to be very effective in combating digestive problems and treating wounds. And its tea is also widely used to alleviate stress and anxiety.
Therefore, today we will learn about everything bay leaves can offer and a tea recipe.
Benefits of Bay Leaves
Because they are rich in potassium, magnesium and vitamins B6, B9 and C, bay leaves can provide anti-inflammatory, digestive, stimulating and antioxidant action in the body, resulting in several health benefits.
Aid in digestion
Bay leaves are widely used to aid digestion. This is because the leaf enhances the production of bile by the liver and stimulates digestive enzymes. Therefore, whether in tea or in recipes, this leaf is a great natural option for those with digestion problems.
Improves immunity
As it is a rich source of vitamins and minerals, such as potassium and selenium, bay leaves help improve immunity. Furthermore, they strengthen muscles and even contribute to vision.
Analgesic action
Bay leaf contains a special compound called eugenol, which is widely used in anti-inflammatory medicines. Thus, it can be used as a natural anti-inflammatory. Furthermore, as it has analgesic properties, it can also be used to alleviate various pains. Such as headaches, joint pain, and especially menstrual cramps.
Regulates menstrual flow
Speaking of menstrual cramps, in addition to easing pain, the leaves can also help regulate menstrual flow. This is because the plant contains several stimulating properties that act on the uterus, contributing to the release of menstrual flow. It is widely used by people who suffer from a lack of menstruation for this very reason.
Diuretic action
Bay leaves also have diuretic properties, making their tea an excellent natural diuretic. Thus, one of the main benefits is combating fluid retention and swelling.
Relief from stress and anxiety
In general, teas are great natural calming options and bay leaf tea is one of them. It’s a great option for those who need to relax.
Contraindications
Although there are many benefits of bay leaf, its consumption is not recommended for everyone. Therefore, pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid drinking bay leaf tea or consuming the leaf in other forms. This is because, as it has a stimulating effect, it can cause an abortion. The plant is also not recommended for children and people sensitive to this plant.
Furthermore, excessive consumption of this plant can have the opposite effect. And thus, causing a lot of drowsiness, diarrhea, headache and worsening menstrual cramps, and even lowering blood sugar levels, resulting in hypoglycemia.
Bay leaves in cooking
As seen previously, bay leaves are widely used in various dishes. In addition to the striking flavor, the use of these leaves in food is intended to make them more digestible, due to their digestive properties.
You can use bay leaf in many dishes, but it goes especially well with sauces, beans, lentils, stir-fries and tea. However, the leaf itself should not be ingested, it is only used to flavor food.
Bay leaf tea
Tea from these leaves is one of the main options to enjoy all the benefits that the plant provides. Therefore, to prepare your bay leaf tea you will need the following ingredients:
Preparation mode
- First put the water in a pan and wait for it to boil;
- Then just add the bay leaves and leave it on the heat for approximately 10 minutes;
- Finally, wait for it to cool and drink the tea 3 to 4 times a day. Sweetening is optional.
Anyway, what did you think of this article? Take the opportunity to discover teas for weight loss.
Sources: Ecycle Conquer your Life Your Health
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