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I use bay leaf primarily in the kitchen as a seasoning for soups, under meat or in sauces. You might not even have thought about what effects it can have if you decide to use it in other ways. Did you know you can easily make a smoothie or tea from it? Thanks to its properties, you’ll not only be healthier.
What are its beneficial effects?
Bay leaf is worth consuming regularly. We’ll show you reasons that will convince you that this spice is healthy and definitely should not be missing from your diet. Bay leaf is good for our digestive system, respiratory system, it will help you have a healthier heart and it can also relieve menstrual pain or be good for your hair.
It’s a shame to use it only as a spice in the kitchen. So what effects does it have? If you need to improve digestion, bay leaf is the best choice. It is suitable for vomiting or nausea or if you suffer from diarrheal diseases. It has diuretic effects, strengthens the stomach and thanks to it you will get back in shape more easily. In addition, it can relax abdominal cramps, stimulate digestion and reduce menstrual pain.
Make a quality decoction that will help with various ailments
If you have breathing problems, bay leaf helps here too. You can buy essential oil to rub on your chest. It reduces respiratory symptoms and you can leave it on your chest all night. You will breathe better and therefore sleep better. It speeds up healing and is also a great aid in the treatment of heart disease. It contains lauric acid and other antioxidants that support heart function. During menstruation it reduces cramps and generally regulates cycles.
Bay leaf reduces inflammation and irritation throughout the body. It can thus be used against joint pain and dermatitis. It contains an active plant compound that lowers stress levels; bay leaf is widely used in aromatherapy. It also works great against hair loss and dandruff. You can prepare a solution from it and rinse your hair regularly. You can easily make tea from it as well, which you can drink on its own or use, for example, in a smoothie.
Prepare 5 g of bay leaf, pour 3 dcl of cold water over it, bring to a boil under a lid and wait 7–10 minutes. Then top up the evaporated water to 3 dcl. Let cool, strain and drink at once. However, this tea and bay leaf in general are not recommended for pregnant and breastfeeding women. It is not clear what effect it may have on the health of the baby.
