Bay leaf can lower cholesterol, treat digestive issues: Nutritionist
It can strengthen immune system with its powerful antioxidants
(Web Desk) - Bay leaf not only adds flavour to the food but can also strengthen immune system with its powerful antioxidants.
Bay leaf, the popular flavouring agent in Indian cuisine has been trusted since ancient times to treat digestive disorders, lower cholesterol levels and ward off evil.
Even today, the age-old spice retains its popularity and is used widely across cuisines for its distinct taste. Dry bay leaves are used to flavour curries, soups and rice to add flavour and aroma.
Bay leaves are dried before use as the fresh ones can be bitter and astringent. Bay leaf or bay laurel is obtained from small evergreen tree Laurus nobilis L. Bay leaves are full of antioxidants and are a good source of minerals and fibre.
Bay leaf has been in use since ancient times in traditional and folk medicines. The spice was used to treat respiratory disorders, infections, digestive issues, diarrhoea, amenorrhea and as a diuretic.
However not many studies have proven the health benefits of bay leaves.
Bay leaves helps treat stomach ache, clear up mucus in the lungs, cold, and sore throat. It is also effective in treating rheumatism and neuralgia.
Keeping bay leaf in a nostril or under the head bands is believed to treat headache.
Above all, Bay provides an amazing flavour and cuisines across the world uses it in some way or the other.
In ancient times, bay leaf was a symbol of prosperity, fame, and victory and was believed to possess protective powers.
Ancient Mediterraneans believed the tree could protect them from misfortune and used to plant it near their homes to prevent lightning strikes.
Benefits of Bay Leaf
Bay leaves have anti-inflammatory, anti-diarrheal and antidiabetic properties and can strengthen immune system.
It also helps in lowering blood cholesterol, control blood sugar and uric acid level.
Nutritionist Apurva Agarwal shares amazing benefits of the herb: Bay leaves contribute to the regulation of cholesterol levels, which lowers the risk of heart disease and improves cardiovascular health in general.
Treats stomach upsets: The chemical compounds in bay leaves have been shown to be highly beneficial in treating upset stomachs, relieving irritable bowel syndrome, and even facilitating easy food digestion.
Helps heal respiratory conditions: Bay leaves have long been used to treat respiratory conditions.
As a natural decongestant, the substances in these leaves can help reduce the symptoms of respiratory diseases like bronchitis and asthma.
Heart health: One of the ingredients in bay leaves, caffeic acid, may help to maintain heart health.
Lowers risk of chronic disease: Antioxidants found in bay leaves help the body fight free radicals. By lowering the risk of chronic diseases and shielding cells from oxidative stress, these antioxidants improve general health.
