Bay leaf is an aromatic dried leaf of bay tree, majorly cultivated in the Mediterranean region. It is widely used for cooking, as well as to make medicine. Moreover, bay leaf has several medicinal benefits. It is used for cancer, diabetes, stomach problems, appetite stimulant, kidney stones, to control blood sugar level, and many other conditions. However, there is no good scientific evidence to support these uses. Bay leafs are a rich source of magnesium, calcium, potassium, iron, vitamin C, and vitamin A. They promote general health and have been proven to be useful in the treatment of migraines. Bay leaf improve blood circulation, reduces blood pressure, and decreases cholesterol levels. Bay leaf can sooth digestive track and helps avoid constipation and other digestive disorders.
Bay leaves have been in existence for centuries. Bay leaf tea is made from the fresh leaves of the Bay leaf (Rubia tinctorum). Bay leaf is aromatic, fragrant, flavorful, and medicinal leaves of a common sweet bay leaf tree widely known as laurel leaf that is an evergreen shrub, belongs to the lauraceae or family of plants which are known for having re-growth capabilities. Bay leaf tea is used as a seasoning or flavor in cooking since its aromatic nature. It is used in making of teas and is consumed either as tea or in addition to food. It has a unique flavor that is known to be refreshing and goes well with salty and sweet tastes. Even though it has a distinct flavor, the taste can be intensified by cooking with bay leaves may.
The bay leaf is an essential oil that is known to have antibiotic and antifungal properties. It is therefore used to treat burns, abscesses, and stomach infections. It is also a good source of essential fatty acids that are essential for the functioning of the immune system. The essential oil of the herb is therefore considered as very beneficial when used as a topical antibiotic. In addition to this, it is known to help relieve muscle pain, rheumatism and joint inflammation, as well as settle fevers and coughs. It is widely used in Chinese cuisines to relieve nausea and flu symptoms. It is often added to green vegetables to retain the chlorophyll content. In Indian cuisines, fresh bay leaves or gourds are often added to curry or masala chutney.
The herb is also a constituent of medicines made from the leaves. In fact, Indian medicines are prescribed for low appetite and loss of appetite due to gastric surgery or chemotherapy. Due to its ability to retain moisture, fresh bay leaves make excellent dry packs. The dried leaves can then be made into cookies or puddings. The dried leaves can also be added to baked goods to preserve the flavor. In some parts of the world like Japan, dried leaves are still used to flavor cooking meats and fish. Besides its many essential and health benefits, the bay leaf is also popular as an herb for Feng Shui. It is believed to aid digestion and can enhance overall good health by balancing the Qi.
When the Qi is unbalanced, one may experience a dullness of thought, emotional instability, depression, restlessness, and difficulty in concentrating and performing tasks. To prevent Qi imbalance, it is recommended to chew on the herb prior to eating or drinking. Apart from the above mentioned health benefits, the herb has a strong aroma which gives it a very good smell. Its pleasant aroma can easily be dispersed by spraying it on candles, incense, and other fragrances. The aroma of Mexican bay leaf is great for balancing the dominant taste of cedar wood, musk, and other spicy ingredients in the blend. With such aroma, Mexican bay leaf is suitable for almost all types of perfumes and colognes.
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