The Laurus nobilis L. or Laurel, is a perennial species with Mediterranean origins, which today is cultivated as an ornamental plant in gardens; and it is that thanks to the qualities that this sheet possesses, you will always want to have it at home.
The laurel is known worldwide for its characteristic aroma and the use that is commonly given to it in the kitchen. However, it is also classified as a good resource for health due to its different properties, uses and benefits.
Then, in the following article we will share the wonderful properties and health benefits of this powerful plant, so that you can include it in your daily consumption and take advantage of all its benefits.
What is the bay leaf?
The laurel tree has a thin bark, which can reach 10 meters in height. The leaves are dark green in color and it has a distinctive aroma that has positioned this plant to be part of different culinary dishes.
In addition, according to researchers from the Institute of Chemistry of the National Autonomous University of Mexico , the bay leaf has antidepressant and anxiolytic properties, placing it as one of the most used plants among people suffering from diseases of the central nervous system.
Properties of bay leaves
The laurel has different properties that make this plant a wonder on earth, however, it must be taken into account that the laurel should be used in its driest state because the fresh leaves could be toxic.
This is due to its cyanogenic glycoside content present in the stem and leaves of said seasoning.
In this sense, the laurel has different volatile active components such as a-pinene, beta-pinene, limonene, myrcene, neral, methyl chavicol, geralium acetate, eugenol and chavicol.
These compounds are excellent antiseptics and antioxidants, they also have digestive properties.
This is how, you will be surprised to know the wide variety of vitamins and minerals that bay leaves can provide for the human body.
vitamins
- Folic acid: The presence of this folate contributes to good tissue growth and cell development.
- Vitamin A: The vitamin A present in the laurel helps the development of soft tissues and the good condition of the skin.
- Vitamin B: Helps the formation of red blood cells, regulates metabolism and improves the central nervous system.
- Vitamin C: Known for its antioxidant and stimulant capacity to accelerate wound healing.
minerals
- Potassium: Controls blood pressure and heart rate.
- Calcium: It is one of the minerals with the greatest presence in the laurel, its importance is due to the fact that calcium helps keep bones and teeth healthy, in addition to its contribution to blood coagulation.
- Magnesium: This mineral is used to combat depression and is considered effective among treatments for type 2 diabetes.
- Iron: The main mineral present in the production of hemoglobin is iron, which is also a fundamental part of the properties of laurel.
Health benefits of bay leaves
Bay leaf is not only a seasoning, it also has incredible benefits that improve different health conditions.
In this sense, researchers from the Faculty of Exact and Natural Sciences of the University of Buenos Aires, Argentina, carried out a study on the composition of the essential oil of the laurel; taking into account that currently the extraction of these substances is used to combat skin diseases, muscle pain, among other benefits that we will highlight below.
They stimulate the immune system
Due to its high content of Vitamin C, bay leaves are an excellent immune stimulant, they are in charge of acting as a defensive barrier against any disease that tries to lodge in the body. This is how the intake of foods rich in this vitamin helps protect and keep these germs away.
In addition, laurel is used as a disinfectant to combat viral processes. Currently, a certain variety of viruses have mutated to the point of staying alive on objects, clothing, and the most exposed parts of our body, such as the face, arms, and hands.
For this reason, it is extremely important to keep clean surfaces vulnerable to the permanence of viral diseases.
Reduce respiratory conditions
The antibacterial properties of the laurel relieve respiratory conditions, favoring the expulsion of nasal secretions, clearing the respiratory system and the oral cavity of viruses and bacteria that are affecting its proper functioning.
Conditions such as bronchitis and pharyngitis, where the main symptoms cause difficulty breathing, fatigue and phlegm, can be improved with bay leaf, thanks to the fact that in its gaseous state it clears the airways, acting as an excellent expectorant.
Improve circulation problems
Laurel contains potassium, this mineral is one of the main ones used to regulate blood pressure, helping to keep blood vessels healthy, which in turn improves circulation.
Therefore, vascular pathologies and lethal brain diseases can be prevented. This is how the potassium present in bay leaves is used to balance the body against possible arterial obstructions.
For its part, high levels of cholesterol and triglycerides are harmful to your body, since they cause circulation problems because the fat accumulated in the blood can significantly clog the main arteries of the body, which would trigger heart disease.
Relieve digestive discomfort
Since ancient times, bay leaves have been used to treat digestive disorders, reduce gas and improve abdominal pain that can be caused by poor digestion or slow metabolisms, which do not process food well and lead to gastrointestinal pain.
The infusion of bay leaves after eating is commonly used for its quick relief and easy preparation. In addition, its quality as it is a totally natural preparation.
Likewise, laurel is used for intestinal obstructions, since thanks to its cholagogue effect it facilitates the expulsion of bile retained in the gallbladder, thus acting as a completely natural intestinal purgative and diuretic.
Reduce colic and muscle pain
Bay leaves reduce inflammation due to flatulence and discomfort caused by intestinal colic, this is because its carminative properties reduce gases that clog the digestive system and cause such conditions.
The presence of eugenol in bay leaves benefits the reduction of muscle pain or rheumatic diseases.
Its properties help reduce inflammation caused by arthritis, sprains and fluid retention, which is why it acts as a muscle relaxant. In addition, its diuretic quality as mentioned above.
The essential oils extracted from the laurel are used in aromatherapy and physiotherapy to relieve muscle pain.
Its pleasant and particular smell combined with the benefits derived from this plant, work as excellent painkillers for migraines or headaches.
Regulate the menstrual cycle
Bay leaves have emmenagogue properties, that is, they stimulate blood flow to the pelvis and uterus, which regulates menstruation.
While in cases of delayed cycles, it helps the concentration of blood in the female reproductive system to circulate faster.
The use of laurel for the menstrual cycle should be used with caution, since it can be harmful to pregnant women.
This occurs thanks to the fact that the same emmenagogue property present in the plant is also considered abortifacient.
They stimulate the appetite
The presence of the organic compounds cineole and eugenol in bay leaves help improve appetite in people who want to gain weight naturally.
Also, ingesting a cup of bay leaf infusion before each meal helps your body regulate anemic problems due to poor nutrition and strengthens the production of gastric juices.
Laurel is used by people who want to combat anorexia, since this eating disorder wreaks havoc on your body’s digestive system. For which, the laurel helps to reconstitute and strengthen the proper functioning of the alimentary tract that is affected by constant nausea.
Increases the health of the eyes, hair and skin
The content of Vitamin A present in bay leaves makes it a wonderful option to treat visual diseases, antioxidants being the properties that abound in said vitamin, those in charge of maintaining optimal vision.
While laurel is effective for hair to combat dandruff, being a natural astringent it cleanses and purifies the skin, leaving it free of dryness or external agents that are irritating the scalp.
Likewise, laurel tea is used to strengthen the developing follicle and accelerate the growth of others.
According to studies published by the US National Library of Medicine, bay leaves have properties that relieve skin inflammation caused by acne.
The results are positive after the application of laurel in the areas of the face affected by bacteria and microorganisms that cause redness and inflammation.
Fight oral infections
Thanks to its antiseptic and antibacterial properties, the infusion of bay leaves can be used to improve conditions in the oral cavity, such as gums and lips, which can be caused by the use of dental appliances and irritation of the mucosa due to external agents. .
On the other hand, the essential oils of the laurel and its content of Vitamin A help to improve the cracks that appear on the lips due to dryness and wounds inside the oral cavity.
Unlike other medicinal plants, its pleasant taste will not be a problem.
Reduce stress and anxiety
Laurel is generally known for its calming effect, as we mentioned above.
Its oil is one of the most used in aromatherapy and is that anti-stress massages are mostly carried out with laurel-based oils, this allows a better relaxation of the muscles while reducing inflammation, allowing you to relax while enjoying its pleasant smell.
This condiment is also used to reduce anxiety levels, since its consumption benefits the central nervous system, reducing bodily tensions caused by stress episodes.
Also, its infusion sweetened with a little honey is used for insomnia problems. This mixture will make your body relax and you can rest peacefully.
They serve as an insect repellent
No more ants, mosquitoes, cockroaches and flies, laurel is the ideal insect repellent for your home. Not only does it aromatize the environment, but it also repels these annoying insects.
Being an all-natural option, bay leaves are also used as insecticides, helping you fight pests that may be stunting the growth of your garden plants.
Its characteristic smell keeps insects away while its multiple properties will protect your skin from any bite when it comes to being outdoors.
How are bay leaves consumed and used?
The Greeks used to take laurel infusions for the different properties that we already know.
However, when consuming bay leaves you must be cautious and preferably the leaf must be completely dry.
In addition, it is not recommended that pregnant and lactating women consume this plant, however it is important that you consult your doctor if you wish to ingest it.
Studies carried out reveal that the consumption of capsules with previously processed bay leaves helps to control insulin levels in people with type 2 diabetes. Significantly improving their glucose levels after consuming bay leaves.
Below we show you two laurel-based recipes.
bay tea
One of the main ways to consume bay leaves is in tea or infusions. This is because the intake of this plant is easier in this way.
Laurel tea is recommended for the relief of gastrointestinal conditions, high blood pressure and insomnia and its preparation is very simple.
Ingredients
- bay leaves
- Water
Preparation
- Wash the fresh bay leaves and let them dry.
- Place the water in a pot and cook until it reaches its boiling point.
- Then, add the 3 bay leaves to the water and let it boil for approximately 2 to 3 minutes.
- Subsequently, turn off the heat and let the tea stand, then strain and pour into a cup.
- The tea can be consumed hot or cold, you can also sweeten it with the sweetener of your choice.
bay balm
Laurel-based balm is used in skin and hair care products for its moisturizing and regenerating properties.
Ingredients
- bay leaves
- Water
- Essential oil
Preparation and application
- Wash and let the bay leaves dry. Crush them in a mortar and let them cook in a little water and let them rest.
- Then, crush them in a food processor and squeeze them preferably with a fine cloth.
- Next, said paste is mixed with the essential oil of your choice.
- To apply, the oil is poured on the affected area and proceed to massage until the skin absorbs the oil.
Bay oil
Laurel oil is one of the favorites for people with skin problems caused by acne. Its easy preparation, pleasant aroma and effective results make it the perfect oil for the face and dry areas of the body.
Ingredients
- bay leaves
- Olive oil
Preparation and application
- A handful of dried bay leaves is placed in 250 ml of olive oil.
- Being photosensitive, it is recommended to let the mixture rest in a cool place, poured into a dark container for 15 days.
- After time, the preparation is drained to use the oil on lesions that affect the skin.
University Professional in the area of Human Resources, Postgraduate in Occupational Health and Hygiene of the Work Environment, 14 years of experience in the area of health. Interested in topics of Psychology, Occupational Health, and General Medicine.