Bay leaves are commonly found in biryani, pulao, soups, curries and most Indian dishes. Also known as tej patta, this culinary herb makes for an integral part of the Indian cuisine, thanks to its distinctive flavour and fragrance. Apart from this, it is also known for its age-old medicinal properties. Scientifically known as Laurus Nobilis, bay leaves are used for treating various health conditions. The presence of vitamin A and C along with folic acid and various minerals in bay leaf makes it a nutrient-dense herb. Add bay leaves to your soup stocks, curries, rice dishes and other delicacies to make the most of the herb. Not only does it impart strong flavour to dishes, but also ensures delivering certain health benefits that cannot go unnoticed. We suggests some amazing benefits of bay leaves that you may have not known.
If you haven't known already, these benefits will convince you to add bay leaves in your next delicacy.
1. Helps In Improving Digestion
Bay leaf is said to have strong effects on the gastrointestinal system. It helps decrease the toxicity of the body and further helps the body in functioning well. Organic compounds found in bay leaves are effective for settling an upset stomach and soothe irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Some of the complex proteins cannot be easily digested by the body, which is when bay leaves play a major role. The unique enzymes present in these leaves help facilitate efficient digestion.
Bay leaf is said to have strong effects on the gastrointestinal system.2. Heart-Friendly
Organic compounds including caffeic acid and rutin that are found in bay leaves enhance our heart health. They both strengthen capillary walls in the heart and further eliminate LDL or bad cholesterol from the cardiovascular system.
Organic compounds including caffeic acid and rutin that are found in bay leaves enhance our heart health.
3. A Herb Perfect For Diabetics
According to the Journal of Clinical Biochemistry and Nutrition, 1-3 grams of bay leaf per day for 30 days experienced a drop in blood glucose, cholesterol and triglycerides. Bay leaves are responsible for improving insulin function, which is a boon for diabetics.
Bay leaves are responsible for improving insulin function, which is a boon for diabetics.4. Acts As A Stress-Buster
Stress is one of most common conditions of the modern world. In order to manage stress better, add more bay leaves to your diet. The presence of linalool can lower the level of stress hormones in the body. These leaves help you calm down and combat symptoms of depression.
These leaves help you calm down and combat symptoms of depression.
5. Protects Your Body From Inflammation
One of the most important benefits of bay leaves is that it has anti-inflammatory properties; thanks to the presence of a unique phyto-nutrient called parthenolide that can reduce inflammation significantly, further reducing the chances of developing conditions like arthritis.
One of the most important benefits of bay leaves is that it has anti-inflammatory properties.
6. Natural Wound Healer
According to BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine, bay leaves have antimicrobial properties that help the wound heal completely. Minor wounds are not only painful but can irritate you; it's best to bring natural remedies, as good as bay leaves, to your rescue.
Make bay leaves a part of your daily diet; add 2-3 dried leaves in your delicacies and experience health at its best.