Bay leaf is a culinary favourite that lends recipes a robust flavour and aroma. Its medicinal uses are equally impressive. Since ancient times, bay leaf has been used to treat digestive disorders, respiratory issues, coughs and colds, pain relief, and various other ailments.
Bay leaves are typically dried in the sun before using it. Bay leaf powder can also be used to flavour food.
It is a wealth of nutrients, including fibre, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. It is a good source of vitamin A, vitamin B6, and vitamin C.
There are many ways to add bay leaves to food preparations, from adding the dry leaves in tempering to crushing and using them in spice mixes. But if you do not have time to cook elaborate meals, bay leaf water can be an effective way to reap the amazing benefits of the ancient spice.
Soak 2-3 dried bay leaves in a pot of lukewarm water and leave it for a few hours. Strain it and enjoy the water on an empty stomach. Alternatively, strain the leaves in boiling water after a few minutes. After it becomes lukewarm, add some honey and consume it on an empty stomach.
Here are the benefits of bay leaf water on an empty stomach:
Health Benefits of Bay Leaf Water
Diabetes management: Having bay leaf water the first morning can help manage blood sugar.
Consuming the spice is associated with improved insulin and glucose metabolism. Polyphenol, the active compound in the bay, can help manage glucose levels. According to the National Institutes of Health, consuming bay leaves decreases risk factors for diabetes and cardiovascular diseases.
Stomach ache: Benefitsay leaf water can relieve digestive disorders, including stomach aches. The compounds in the dried spice are highly effective in treating upset stomachs and easing digestion.
Arthritis: The spice possesses anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce the chances of a range of chronic diseases, from heart ailments to asthma to arthritis. It can also relieve arthritis symptoms like joint pain, swelling, and stiffness.
Lung health: Bay leaves can be good for lung health, and drinking bay water on an empty stomach can prevent respiratory disorders. Having bay leaf tea or inhaling vapours of bay leaves can help loosen phlegm and eliminate harmful lung pathogens. Headache: Bay leaves can also be effective in alleviating irritating headaches. To treat headaches, keep a leaf of bay under a nostril or the headband to relieve the pain.
Anti-cancer effect: Bay leaves may help prevent certain cancers, such as breast and colorectal cancer cells; however, more studies are needed to establish the connection.
Stress and anxiety relief: Bay leaf water can also help beat stress and eliminate anxiety. Its calming properties are perhaps due to its compound called linalool, which can lower stress hormones in the body. This natural remedy can ensure a stress-free day ahead and help you make decisions with a calm head.
Cough and cold: Bay leaves can effectively treat flu-like symptoms. They help clear mucus in the lungs, treat colds and coughs, and soothe sore throats.
