Romans and Greeks have used the medicinal properties of Bay Laurel since ancient times. In spite of the folklore surrounding its history and use, modern science shows that its robust nutritional profile may include many vitamins, minerals, and essential nutrients needed for optimal health. This spice is packed with various chemical compounds which act as antioxidants and protect against free radical damage.
Health Benefits and Therapeutic Uses
– Chemical compounds in bay leaves improve digestion and act as digestive agent and potent antiseptic. Dried bay laurel infused in tea helps relieve digestive discomfort and suppress appetite.
– Antioxidants in bay leaves fight off damage caused by free radicals, which in turn reduces cancer risk.
– Bay leaves contain vitamin A, a nutrient which is essential for healthy vision, hair, and skin. It acts as potent antioxidant which lowers the risk of various types of cancer.
– B vitamins from sweet bay leaves regulate the function of organs and nerves as well as production of hormones. Additionally, regular consumption of bay leaves is useful for diabetics as it helps lower blood sugar levels.
– Folic acid present in bay leaves is needed for DNA development in fetuses. Introduced to prenatal diet, bay leaves stimulate DNA synthesis and lower the risk of nerve disorders.
– Vitamin C is yet another powerful antioxidant which can be used to boost immunity, reduce inflammation, and fight viral disease.
– Sipping laurel tea fights cold and flu symptoms and clears the sinuses.
– Other therapeutic uses of bay leaves include healing burns, wounds, and inflammation and relieving muscle sprains and pain. It can be found in many natural creams, gels, pills, moisturizers, and herbal shampoos.
– Essential minerals in bay leaves, such as manganese, magnesium, potassium, iron, copper, and zinc improve many bodily functions, including regulating muscle function, improving blood cell production, and processing enzymes.
Additional Benefits
- Relieves joint pain
- Treats varicose veins
- Calms the nervous system
- Boosts immunity
- Improves mental activity
- Improves the function of the colon
- Stimulates the sweating process
Laurel Oil Recipe
Ingredients:
- 30 g of bay leaves
- 250 ml of olive oil
Instructions:
- Crush the leaves until the oil is released
- When well crushed combine them with the oil they have released
- Cover with olive oil and close the container
- Store in cool and dry place for 2 weeks
- Replace the leaves after two weeks and repeat the procedure
Use:
- Pour the oil on a cloth
- Squeeze the cloth to remove excess oil
- Apply, as needed
Benefits of Laurel Oil
- Rub the oil on painful joints to alleviate joint pain
- Treat migraine by rubbing it on the temples
- It regulates body temperature and can be used as topical alternative to aspirin
- Massage the oil on the temples to relieve a severe headache
- It works as effective lotion against acne and pimples
- Treats abdominal pain
Comentários
Postar um comentário