8 surprising benefits of bay leaf for your health

Widely used in the kitchen as a seasoning to add more flavor to some dishes, bay leaves can also be great health allies, helping to fight and avoid some problems.

Anxiety, inflammation, fever, headache and muscle tension are some examples that can be treated with this herb.

Just know the correct way to use and apply to enjoy all the benefits. Meet eight of them:

1. Reduce Anxiety

By burning bay leaves, the smoke produced has a relaxing effect on the body and mind. But you have to be careful, because inhaling this smoke regularly can cause hallucinations. So the ideal is not to use this technique too often, only when you need to relax a little.

2. Decrease inflammation

Bay leaves contain eugenol, a compound that acts as an anti-inflammatory agent. With their consumption it is possible to reduce inflammation throughout the body, especially in the joints.

3. Strengthen the immune system

The eugenol present in bay leaves also acts as an antioxidant. That’s why using them in recipes is recommended especially when you have a cold.

4. Control diabetes

According to the results of a survey conducted in the United States, consuming 1 to 3 grams of bay leaves a day can help control some symptoms in people with type 2 diabetes.

5. Improve the respiratory system

Breathing in the steam from bay leaf oil helps to open the airways. To make this oil, mix 1 teaspoon (5 g) of dried bay leaves and 1 cup (200 g) of sweet almond oil in an airtight glass bottle containing 200 ml, close tightly, and leave to pickle for a while. 40 days.

6. They are good for the skin

Bay oil is also excellent for skin care as it is rich in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, as well as anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. It is suitable for those who want to keep their skin clean and delay aging.

7. Lower the fever

In cases of flu or fever, steam inhalation is a good tip, as it regulates your body temperature and encourages perspiration. Another option is to apply wet compresses with the oil to the chest. This also helps to prevent infections associated with colds.

8. Promote muscle relaxation

By having a vasoconstriction effect, bay leaves help in muscle contraction. They are also great for those who want to regulate blood circulation. That’s why they are indicated for headaches, migraines, neck or back pain – just do a massage with laurel oil.

To enjoy all the benefits that bay leaves have to offer your health, be sure to use dried leaves, as fresh ones can be toxic.

The information contained on this page is for informational purposes only. They do not replace the advice and follow-up of doctors, nutritionists, psychologists, physical education professionals and other specialists.