We commonly use various herbs to savor our dishes without even assuming that these kitchen ingredients can also be used for other purposes as well. Take for instance, bay leaves. I bet not many of you know that the distinct smell these leaves provide has an incredibly soothing effect on the human body.
Bay leaves have a century-long tradition of being part of natural medicine. Their exceptional medicinal properties such as strong anti-inflammatory and soothing properties were recognized and widely used even by the ancient Greeks. In addition, it was believed that bay leaves can support the treatment of epilepsy.
Even today, many natural medicine practitioners acknowledge the amazing health benefits of bay leaves, which include reduction of hypertension, protection against insomnia and stress, as well as control over blood cholesterol levels.
To reap the health benefits of bay leaves, you can add them to your meals when being cooked, or you can carefully light them in a heat-resistant bowl and let the aroma slowly spread around the house. Burning bay leaves is highly beneficial for relaxing your muscles, calming your mind and improving your mood.
Benefit #1 – Reduced Anxiety
The bay leaf contains a compound called linalool. A study by the American Association of Nurse Anesthetists found that linalool decreases anxiety and enhances social interaction. In as little as 10 minutes of smelling a burning bay leaf, linalool begins working.
The bay leaf contains a compound called linalool. A study by the American Association of Nurse Anesthetists found that linalool decreases anxiety and enhances social interaction. In as little as 10 minutes of smelling a burning bay leaf, linalool begins working.
Benefit #2 – Respiratory Relief
Bay leaves contain mycrene and eugenol. Both of these compounds possess great anti-inflammatory properties and are, in fact, used heavily in stress reduction therapy.
Bay leaves contain mycrene and eugenol. Both of these compounds possess great anti-inflammatory properties and are, in fact, used heavily in stress reduction therapy.
When you burn a bay leaf, these compounds become airborne. Once inhaled, they will reduce any respiratory inflammation. This can work wonders if you suffer from allergies or have a bad cold.
Benefit #3 – Bay leaves are also one of the most powerful cockroach repelants!
If insects have invaded your kitchen or lawn, use bay leaves to repel them. You can hardly find a better solution because they are perfectly safe to use even around small kids or pets. Their powerful smell works wonders when it comes to repelling cockroaches or similar insects.
If insects have invaded your kitchen or lawn, use bay leaves to repel them. You can hardly find a better solution because they are perfectly safe to use even around small kids or pets. Their powerful smell works wonders when it comes to repelling cockroaches or similar insects.
HOW TO BURN BAY LEAVES PROPERLY
When burnt right, bay leaves will begin to unleash their benefits very quickly.
Take one dried leaf and place it in an ashtray. Set the leaf on fire and leave the room for a few minutes. If possible, close the door behind you to let the bay leaf aroma fill the room.