Bay leaf is an herb that is commonly used in cooking. The leaves and oil are also used to make medicine.Bay leaves are commonly found in biryani, pulao, soups, curries and most Indian dishes. The presence of vitamin A and C along with folic acid and various minerals in bay leaf makes it a nutrient-dense herb.
People use bay leaf for diabetes, cancer, stomach problems, pain, and many other conditions, but there is no good scientific evidence to support these uses. Bay leaf can also be unsafe if the entire leaf is taken by mouth.
Health Benefits
While many claims are made about the health benefits of bay leaves, not all have been proven.
Antibacterial effects
In lab studies, bay leaves have been found to have antibacterial properties, which means they stop bacteria from growing near them.
Blood sugar health
People who don’t have diabetes experience lower blood sugar levels after eating a meal when they’ve also consumed bay leaves.
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.
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.
Side Effects
When taken by mouth: Bay leaf and bay leaf oil is LIKELY SAFE for most people in food amounts. Ground bay leaf is POSSIBLY SAFE when taken by mouth in medicinal amounts, short-term. But, if you cook with whole bay leaf, be sure to remove it before eating the food. Taking the whole, intact leaf by mouth is LIKELY UNSAFE.
