Bay leaf beneficial properties. Bay leaf: medicinal properties and contraindications. The use of laurel in folk medicine

Bay leaf is the name of the leaves of the plant Laurel nobilis, which belongs to the Laurel family. The plant is native to Asia Minor and the Mediterranean. turned out to be one of the ancient spices, which occupied an important place in the life of many tribes. IN Ancient Rome and Greece, the plant was considered sacred; winners in competitions were hung with its leaves and branches, considering the plant a symbol of warmth, love and protection from nature.

Today, bay leaves are grown in many countries with suitable climatic conditions - Turkey, France, Spain, Crimea, Albania and Guatemala. The use of the leaf is effective not only in cooking, but also in medicine, since the plant contains many useful material and minerals. Additionally, the plant is used in the chemical industry to produce camphor and cineole.

Chemical composition of laurel leaf:

cellulose;
fatty acid;
retinol;
ascorbic acid;
phosphorus;
calcium;
selenium;
manganese;
iron;
phytoncides;
tannins.

100 grams of leaf contains 312 kcal. Additionally, the plant contains essential oil, which gives it such a specific smell, organic acids, for example, valerian, nylon.

Medicinal properties of bay leaf

Bay leaf is a unique plant that can cure many diseases, as it has the following properties:

increased appetite in its absence;
lowers arterial pressure;
helps relieve swelling in different parts of the body;
improves the digestive process;
boosts the immune system;
provides relief for arthritis;
suppresses the appearance of tubercle bacilli;
eliminates elevated temperature and fever;
used for stomatitis;
used to improve the condition during diabetes;
helps during bleeding;
has astringent property;
used for malignant neoplasms;
has antibacterial and antifungal effects;
promotes rapid urine flow;
reduces the pain of menstruation;
used for joint pain.

The leaves and fruits of the plant produce essential oil, which has an excellent disinfectant; it is used for stretch marks, bruises, joint pain, and tumors. Bay leaf essential oil is included in antiseptic soaps, as well as some ointments and creams. The use of essential oil is effective in confectionery and liquor production. You must be careful because in some cases the oil causes allergic reaction. The use of oil is only important for external use and not internally. The benefits of the plant are truly incredible.

What does bay leaf decoction help with?

Bay leaves are often used in medicines, ointments, decoctions, tinctures and even oils. Such exploitation allows a person to treat the emerging problem not only from the inside, but also from the outside. The benefits of a decoction of what bay leaf treats:

Problems of the digestive system, constipation, flatulence, bloating and diarrhea, cleanses the intestines of toxins and harmful components.
Helps cleanse joints of salt deposits inside them. At the same time, it allows a person to forget about pain for a long time and eliminate the problem.
The use of the leaf is effective for allergies, which manifest themselves both externally and internally. The benefits of the plant are great, but it is worth remembering that it itself can cause rashes.
A decoction of the leaf effectively eliminates acne, boils, cleanses the skin, makes it shiny and healthy.
The use of the drug is effective for healthy hair.
The benefit of the decoction shows itself in painful periods and their complete absence.
The decoction is effective during pregnancy. It has a beneficial effect on the expectant mother. It is important to remember that during pregnancy the product should be used with extreme caution, as it provokes a miscarriage.

Laurel has antibacterial, astringent, antifungal and diuretic effects, which allow you to completely cleanse the body of negative substances and restore its previous function even during menstruation, joint pain, pregnancy and allergies. For preventive purposes, the decoction is used for stomatitis, colitis, aminorrhea, as well as disorders of the nervous system.

The leaf of the plant is squeezed, and an essential oil is obtained from it, which is an excellent disinfectant during swelling and bruises, as well as minor abrasions. Additionally, if you have existing problems, it is effective to use bay leaf, or rather a decoction of it, which helps remove problems from the inside.

How to prepare a decoction for high blood sugar?

Ingredients:

laurel leaves – 15 pieces;
water – 300 ml.

The leaves are washed thoroughly under running water from dust and dirt, place them in a convenient container and fill them with cold water from the tap. Place the container on low heat and boil for 5 minutes. The decoction is poured along with the leaves into a thermos and infused there for 4-5 hours. The benefits of the prepared product will show themselves when used in small portions throughout the entire decoction. The course of treatment is 3 months, using the drug according to the regimen: 1 day on, 2 days off. After completing the course, a rest period of 30 days is taken, after which the treatment is repeated again.

The effectiveness of bay leaf for diabetes is due to its hypoglycemic property; tincture or decoction is used in therapy. Treatment improves general state, normalizes complexion, reduces sweating characteristic of. The benefits of taking it are visible already in the second month of use.

This treatment improves the general condition of diabetics, refreshes the complexion, and reduces excessive sweating characteristic of the disease.

Recipe for a decoction for allergies in a child

Product for external use, ingredients:

laurel leaves – 5 pcs;
water – 250 ml.

The leaves are thoroughly washed, placed in an enamel bowl and filled with water. The container is placed on the fire, the contents are brought to a boil, the fire is reduced as much as possible and the product is left to smolder for another 15-20 minutes. After heating, the water will evaporate a little, its amount should be exactly 250 ml, so you should add the missing liquid.

The drug is used for allergies in children as baths, lotions, and general wiping of the affected area. Before use, it is worth conducting a reaction test, as some children are prone to allergies. If the child does not develop new rashes, the product can be safely used for baths and lotions.

Bay leaves are used mainly only externally in the form of baths or oils; baths help with diathesis caused by an outbreak of allergies. The duration of the procedure is 20-25 minutes, general course lasts 7-4 days until the pimples completely disappear. For rhinitis caused by allergies, laurel oil or its decoction is instilled into the nose, 1-2 drops 3 times a day. It is better for children to use decoctions; a sufficient dose is 3 spoons per day, divided into 2-3 doses. After treatment, there will be no trace of allergies left. The benefits are visible already on the second day of use.

How to prepare a remedy for joints?

The analgesic and antirheumatic properties of the plant allow its leaves to be used for joint pain. For arthritis, rheumatism, and neuralgia, oil from the fruit and ointment from the leaves are especially effective; decoctions are used internally. Ingredients:

leaves - 30 pieces;
water – 1 liter;
honey - to taste.

Place the leaves in a small enamel saucepan, add water and place on the stove. Wait for the drug to boil, leave it on the stove for another 5-8 minutes. During boiling, the saucepan must be open, as essential oils that are harmful to the kidneys must be released from the herb. After preparation, the liquid is poured into a thermos and left in it for 3-6 hours. For joints, it is more effective to leave the product to infuse for 8-12 hours, which helps its better absorption. After the tincture, the decoction is filtered and the leaves are discarded. The product is used for joint pain by rubbing it into the affected area.

Additionally, the product can be used for oral administration, so it will have an even greater effect on the joints. Use the drug throughout the day, and on the second day prepare a new one, add honey to improve the taste. After 3-day therapy, a break is given for 3 weeks and the course is repeated.

Means for inducing menstruation

Delayed menstruation is a problem that interests many women. Of course, you should consult a doctor, but if a woman knows the cause of the disease, then it can be cured with the help of folk remedies. To call your period on your own, you should use a decoction of bay leaves. Ingredients:

bay leaf – 10 grams;
water – 400 ml;
salt - a pinch.

Wash the bay leaf thoroughly, place it in a saucepan and put it on the fire. Boil the product for 5 minutes without a lid. Pour the drug into a jar and wrap it in a towel, leave for 5 hours, then cool and use in 2-3 doses in the absence of menstruation. The benefits of use will be visible on the second day. Discharge may occur on the second or third day of use. If no effectiveness was found, then there will be no menstruation and it is important to go to the doctor.

Contraindications and harm to health when using laurel

Despite numerous beneficial features and the healing effect of laurel decoctions is harmful to the body. In particular, it is contraindicated for use when:

pregnancy period;
breastfeeding - the milk becomes bitter and the baby rejects the breast;
duodenal ulcer;
pancreatitis;
constant constipation, while laurel causes harm because it further binds feces;
cholecystitis, especially in acute form.

The benefits and harms of laurel were known 2-3 centuries ago, at that time people had nothing to choose from and turned a blind eye to the harm, taking into account only the beneficial and medicinal properties.

Bay leaf is a wonderful spice that has the potential of being a true medicinal herb. Use the recipes given in the article for the benefit of your health, because they are in no way inferior to expensive medications that have side effects.

Bay leaf is the real “king” of spices in the kitchen. There is hardly a person who is not familiar with its specific taste and aroma. For its amazing properties and ability to add an exquisite taste to any dish, laurel is loved by chefs all over the world.

Bay leaf: traditional medicine recipes

Composition of bay leaf
Valuable properties of "laurel"

At the same time, few people thought that the bay leaf is a real medicinal plant, which has been used since time immemorial to treat a variety of diseases. Surprised? In our article you will find a wide variety folk recipes with this plant. But first, let's talk about its healing composition.

Composition of bay leaf

If you look at the chemical composition of bay leaves, you will be surprised to note that this aromatic greenery has something to boast about in terms of the content of useful substances. Take a look for yourself: laurel is a source of vitamins A, C, B and PP, contains selenium and manganese, magnesium and phosphorus, potassium, calcium, copper and many other minerals.

Besides, laurel leaf contains tannins and dietary fiber, organic acids and essential oils. This laurel oil is also rich in aromatic components such as linalool and cineole, camphor and limonene.

Valuable properties of "laurel"

Looking at this composition, is it any wonder that bay leaf has the most beneficial effect on the body? Here is a list of the beneficial properties of this wonderful plant, which will show all its value:

is a powerful antiseptic that perfectly disinfects the body;
is famous for its expectorant effect, helping to get rid of cough;
has an antifungal effect on the skin and mucous membranes;
increases immunity, has general strengthening properties;
supplies the body with vitamins, preventing vitamin deficiency;
eliminates pain in joints and muscles, relieves cramps and tremors of the limbs;
cleanses the body, removing toxins, waste and heavy metal salts from the blood;
dilates blood vessels, has an antihypertensive effect;
has astringent properties, which means it has a hemostatic and healing effect on the body;
It is famous for its diuretic effect and prevents the appearance of edema;
improves digestion of food and eliminates problems with stool;
improves appetite and improves mood;
promotes sleep and acts as a sedative;
has an antitumor effect on the body, which means it helps prevent cancer.

Bay leaf contraindications

Despite all the benefits of this extremely healthy spice, not everyone can use it. For example, doctors do not recommend laurel for diseases such as:

pathologies of the gastrointestinal tract (chronic gastritis, gastric or duodenal ulcer);
extensive liver damage and renal failure;
pancreatitis and acute cholecystitis;
cholelithiasis;
protein metabolism disorders;
inflammatory processes in the body;
chronic constipation (in this condition it is not recommended to use tincture with bay leaf);
tendency to bleeding (since laurel thins the blood);
breastfeeding period;
hypersensitivity to bay leaf components (the plant is a powerful allergen);
alcohol abuse.

Medicine recipes with bay leaf

Now let’s talk about how laurel can help our body.

1. Relieves tension and fatigue

To relax, calm down, relieve tension and calm your nerves, just set fire to a bay leaf in the room and inhale its aroma for 15-20 minutes. Thanks to those present essential oils, bay leaf provides the necessary relaxing and calming effect without causing drowsiness, which is what most sedatives are famous for.

2. Removes mucus from the lungs

"Lavrushka" has amazing property remove pathogenic mucus from the lungs with a wet cough. To do this, you need to inhale the aroma of the burnt leaf (as in the recipe above). By the way, the beneficial effects of this aroma help people with chronic bronchitis and asthma. This category of people benefits from regular rubbing of the chest with laurel oil.

3. Improves digestion

For people with poor digestion of foods, every meal becomes a real challenge. In response to the products entering the body, dyspepsia and flatulence develop, stomach colic torments and stool disturbances occur. You can fight this condition with medications, but is it worth “poisoning” your body if you can always find a bay leaf in the kitchen? By adding such a product to your food, you will soon notice its beneficial effect, enhancing the production of digestive enzymes. The pain and bloating will go away, and the stool will return to normal.

4. Strengthens the heart and blood vessels

Bay tree foliage is rich in an extremely useful compound - caffeic acid, which can cleanse the walls of blood vessels from the adhesion of cholesterol plaques and strengthen blood vessels, preventing loss of tone. Thanks to this amazing feature of laurel, you can protect yourself from hypertension and the development of atherosclerosis. It is not for nothing that the inhabitants of the Mediterranean, where laurel grows actively, are famous for their low mortality rates from cardiovascular diseases. To help your heart and strengthen blood vessels, eat dishes made with bay leaves at least once a day.

5. Fights joint inflammation

Research by Dutch scientists suggests that laurel has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties that have a similar effect to morphine (albeit not as pronounced). If your joints are inflamed due to arthritis or arthrosis, simply apply laurel oil to the painful areas and the pain will subside in just 15-20 minutes. This remedy is especially useful for people with chronic joint pain. They can replace non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs with this remedy.

6. Treats pathologies of the urinary tract

If a urinary tract infection occurs, do not immediately reach for antibiotics. Traditional medicine has a lot of recipes that can cope with the problem that has arisen. One of them involves using a bay leaf. Just add 1 tsp to a glass of milk. crushed bay leaf powder, stir and drink in one go. Take this remedy 3 times a day, and in just a few days the infection will leave your body.

7. Kidney failure

In case of kidney disease, grind the bay leaf in a coffee grinder, and then 1 tsp. Add this raw material to 2 cups of water and boil over high heat for 10 minutes. After letting the product brew for two hours, you can take it 2 times a day, 1 tbsp.

8. Treats psoriasis

To get rid of emerging psoriasis, take 10 leaves of this wonderful bush, load it into a thermos and pour 500 ml of boiling water on top. After closing the thermos, leave the product to infuse for two hours, after which you can take the infusion 3 times a day before each meal, half a glass.

9. Eliminates styes

To cope with such a nuisance as barley, pour three bay leaves into a glass of boiling water, let the mixture cool slightly, and take it as tea while it is warm. Drink this tea every hour, brewing new laurel leaves. You need to drink 7-8 cups of the drink per day. In this case, over the next night the barley will ripen and completely disappear.

10. Fights diabetes

According to recent research by scientists, bay leaf can reduce blood glucose levels (due to galenic substances), which means that with the help of bay leaf infusion you can fight diabetes. To do this, take 10 laurel leaves and fill them with 3 glasses of warm boiled water. Having brought the product to a boil, immediately remove it from the stove and let it brew for three to four hours. This infusion should be taken 0.5 cups (100 ml), 3 times a day for a week. Repeated courses of treatment must be agreed with your doctor. It is also useful to add laurel to your favorite dishes and enjoy their aroma while simultaneously receiving health benefits.

11. Treats sinusitis

To cope with sinusitis, take 10 laurel leaves and pour 1 liter of water into this raw material. Boil the mixture for 5 minutes, then remove from heat and breathe in the hot vapors, throwing a towel over your head. Carry out the procedures twice a day, and you will notice how after each inhalation pus will come out of your sinuses.

12. Eliminates toothache

Do you have a toothache? No problem! Simply grind the bay leaf in a coffee grinder, and then 2 tsp. Pour the powder into a glass of water. Bring the mixture to a boil and keep on fire for another 5 minutes. Let the resulting decoction cool slightly and you can rinse your mouth with it every 15 minutes until the pain subsides.

13. Treats bites

Bay leaf copes well with the bites of horse flies, gadflies, bees and wasps. You just need to take fresh bay greens, chew it and, applying it to the bite site, bandage it. After an hour, the problem will stop bothering you.

14. Treats stomatitis

When stomatitis develops, some doctors advise using “grandmother’s” recipe, namely, chewing a bay leaf in the morning and evening. True, only raw “laurel” is suitable for these purposes.

15. Gets rid of dandruff

To clear your head of dandruff and prevent its subsequent occurrence, combine bay tree oil with the same amount of warmed jojoba oil. Having applied ready mixture on the scalp, wrap it in a terry towel and hold for 40-60 minutes. In addition, you can add a piece of bay oil to your favorite shampoo, and in just a couple of weeks there will be no trace of dandruff left.

16. Relieves purulent inflammation in the ear

Purulent inflammations in the ear must be treated under strict control doctors, because the infection can easily reach the meninges. However, if your doctor allows it, you can combat this problem with the following prescription. Take 10 laurel leaves, fill them with 200 ml hot water and leave in a thermos for 5 hours. The cooled broth can be instilled into the sore ear, 2-3 drops 3 times a day, or apply compresses with this remedy.

17. Gets rid of foot fungus

If you suffer from foot fungus, take 10 laurel leaves, put them in a bath and pour 500 ml of boiling water on top. Let the water cool slightly, and then put your feet in the bath and hold for about 20 minutes. Carry out such procedures 3-4 times a week and after 15 days the fungus will completely disappear.

Bay leaf is a wonderful spice that has the potential of being a true medicinal herb. Use the recipes given for the benefit of your health, because they are in no way inferior to expensive medications that have side effects. published.

P.S. And remember, just by changing your consciousness, we are changing the world together! © econet

The laurel tree is the oldest evergreen on the planet. In the past, among the Greeks, laurel was a symbol of glory, victory and wisdom. Warrior-heroes and high-ranking persons were crowned with wreaths made from the branches of this tree. The leaves are mainly used in cooking as a universal seasoning for cooking. various dishes. Thanks to the spice, meat, fish and vegetable dishes acquire an incomparable taste and aroma. But the medicinal properties of bay leaf, as well as contraindications to the use of products based on it, were known long before they began to eat it.

Bay leaf is a storehouse of vitamins C, B, A, trace elements, essential oils, tannins, fatty acids. All these components are beneficial to the human body and are widely used in pharmaceuticals.

Formic acid and tannins give laurel antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties. A decoction of bay leaves treats mouth ulcers, inflammation of the gums, inflammatory processes in the ears, and also disinfects abrasions and cuts.

A natural antiseptic can disinfect any room. Brew a handful of leaves, let it brew and pour into a small container. Leave it in the room for half an hour. The air in the room will be completely cleared of bacteria and viruses.

In complex therapy, bay decoction strengthens the immune system and helps overcome viral infection in organism. All this is thanks to lauric acid, which is part of the plant. Inhalations of bay decoction help well in the fight against runny nose and other inflammatory processes nasopharynx and respiratory tract.

Inhalations are done only on the first day of illness, since on days 2–3, inhalation can introduce multiplied viruses into the lungs.

At diabetes mellitus type 2, a person needs to monitor their blood sugar levels. The leaves are an excellent remedy for this ailment. It has been proven that the product acts quite quickly, reduces blood glucose levels and lowers cholesterol. The decoction must be taken in courses of two weeks. Both fresh and dried leaves can be used.

The healing leaf has also proven itself in the treatment of fungal skin diseases in the initial stages. To get rid of foot fungus, you need to take foot baths with a decoction of laurel for 20 minutes every other day. Carry out the procedure every two weeks until the signs of pathology completely disappear.

Cleansing the body

Pathogenic bacteria, waste and salts negatively affect the functioning of the body as a whole. For cleansing internal systems and organs must undergo a course of treatment with laurel decoction for three days.

To prepare a medicinal tincture, you need to pour 30 leaves with 1 liter of boiling water in the evening. In the morning you should divide the broth into three equal parts. Drink one portion per day, in small sips after meals. For a more pronounced effect, you should follow a fruit and vegetable diet on the days you take the decoction.

Cleansing the body with this method also has contraindications:

pregnancy and lactation;
stomach and intestinal ulcers;
regular constipation.

Bay leaves contain butyric acid, which is a kind of catalyst for metabolic processes. Regular bowel movements certainly have a positive effect on the digestive system. In addition, the smell of dried laurel stimulates the appetite, and the decoction helps to cope with minor dysentery.

For those who suffer from indigestion after eating, it is advised to drink 4-5 drops of juice from fresh grass leaves and wash it down with warm water.

Reducing blood pressure, treating joints and bones

Traditional medicine methods are very popular in the treatment and prevention of hypertension, and bay leaf is effective means. In the diet of hypertensive patients sufficient quantity calcium, magnesium and potassium must be present, and these elements are in required quantity contained in the laurel. Acting as a mild diuretic, a decoction from the plant can lower and stabilize blood pressure at the initial stage of the disease.

It is advisable to prepare the decoction in a thermos, put 4-5 sheets in a glass of boiling water and leave to steep for 12 hours. If you add a teaspoon of dried dill to the decoction, you will get a more powerful medicine that will help reduce sharp jumps pressure.

Prevention and treatment of joints and bones with bay leaves is carried out in two stages, after the intestinal cleansing procedure:

Cleaning fabrics. To complete the first stage, you need to boil 5 g of laurel and 300 ml of water in an enamel bowl. Boil without a lid for at least 5-6 minutes. Wrap the finished broth in a blanket and leave to infuse for several hours. Drink within 12 hours, taking no more than 2 sips at a time. Repeat the procedure for 3 days.
Cartilage restoration. Prepare a mixture of 1 tsp. peeled and ground eggshells, pinches of gelatin. You need to drink the resulting biocalcium daily, once a day. Stage 2 course - 1 month.

Use of laurel for other problems

An infusion of bay leaves alleviates allergy symptoms and reduces the reaction to the allergen during seasonal manifestations of this disease. For skin rashes, taking baths with laurel infusion helps. For a bath of water - 1 liter of tincture. It is recommended to take a bath no longer than 15-20 minutes.

Bay oil can be used to lubricate irritated areas of the skin and even bedsores in bedridden patients. . In addition, the plant is effective in the following cases:

Elimination unpleasant odor from mouth. Here the treatment will give positive result only if the odor is caused by bacteria. The antibacterial property of laurel water tincture will help destroy harmful bacteria that cause bad breath.
For insect bites. Pain and irritation after the bite of bees, wasps, horseflies will effectively help to remove the pulp from chewed fresh leaves. It is recommended to apply the mixture to the affected area of skin and secure with a bandage or adhesive tape.
For neuroses and sleep disorders. Due to the content of linalool, bay leaf is useful for people suffering from insomnia, excitability and irritability. It has a sedative effect on nervous system. You can take a bath with the decoction or make a sachet with leaves and place it at your head.
For children. It is useful for infants to take baths with a decoction of laurel. Tannins and phytoncides kill staphylococcus and treat prickly heat. Teenagers can take such baths for acne. Before giving your child such baths, consult a therapist.
For sweaty feet. If you have this problem, you can prepare a bactericidal foot bath. To do this, you need to pour 6-7 leaves with 500 ml of boiling water. Leave to brew and add to a bowl of water. You need to keep your feet in this bath for 5-7 minutes.
When menstruation is late. If pregnancy is excluded, and menstruation does not come on time, you can use a decoction to provoke uterine contractions and the onset of menstruation will accelerate.
For rheumatism. For treatment, you can prepare your own ointment. You need to grind 30 bay leaves into powder. The resulting powder is mixed with a pack butter and keep for half an hour in a water bath. Store the mixture in the refrigerator and, if necessary, rub it on sore joints.

Use in cosmetology

Laurel-based oils, tonics, masks, and lotions are widely used in cosmetology. Thanks to the essential oils contained in the composition, useful acids and tannins, laurel is capable of:

restore the dermis;
improve complexion;
reduce pores;
reduce wrinkles;
cleanse the skin;
reduce inflammatory processes.

This spice is also often used to treat dandruff, as a preventative against hair loss, and to restore and strengthen hair.

Mixtures, decoctions and ointments should be prepared in enamel containers and stored exclusively in glass containers.

Harmful properties

Despite this wide range beneficial properties, bay leaf has a number of contraindications and side effects. And if it is not capable of causing harm as a seasoning in food, then you should be careful when using laurel-based medicines. The plant is not recommended in the following cases:

Pregnancy. It is strictly forbidden for pregnant women to use infusions and decoctions containing bay leaves. Salicylates contained in this plant can cause bleeding, uterine contractions and even cause miscarriage. Also, laurel is contraindicated for young children and women during breastfeeding.
Cardiovascular diseases. People with diseases of the cardiovascular system should use laurel-based decoctions with caution, since it contains heart-stimulating substances.
Diabetes. As mentioned earlier, laurel is only useful for type 2 diabetes. For more severe forms it is contraindicated.
Kidney and liver diseases. It is not recommended to use bay decoctions during exacerbation of chronic kidney and liver diseases.
Food allergies. The plant can both cure allergies and provoke them. You need to be careful, if any symptom of intolerance to the bay leaf component appears, stop using it immediately.
Frequent constipation. Consumption of plant-based decoctions often causes constipation. To avoid this, you need to eat as much fiber and coarse fibers as possible during the treatment period.
Stomach and intestinal ulcers. For people with such diseases, laurel in medicinal purposes is strictly prohibited.

Laurel is also used in everyday life as a remedy for cockroaches and cabbage pests. This is an amazing and unique spice with a lot of useful properties, which can be easily found both on store shelves and grown at home. But in any case, it is necessary to take into account the beneficial properties and contraindications of bay leaves and first consult a doctor.

Beneficial features

The chemical composition of laurel is very diverse, which makes it possible to use it in various fields. Its use in cooking helps improve appetite and normalize the functioning of the digestive system. Despite this, laurel is beneficial for weight loss and is used in various diets.
The chemical composition of laurel differs in its content:

useful microelements (zinc, selenium, iron, potassium);
vitamins (A, B, PP);
aromatic substances (cineole, limonene);
tannins;
phytoncides;
saturated fatty acids;
essential oil;
organic acids.

The plant's phytoncides are considered destructive to the tuberculosis bacillus; regular chewing of the plant's leaves helps eliminate inflammation oral cavity, improve the patient’s condition with angina, prevent further development colds.

The use of folk remedies for the treatment of various joint diseases is effective, which helps relieve inflammation, improve blood flow and eliminate swelling from bruises and sprains. Bay leaf has the following qualities:

increases immunity;
lowers blood sugar;
improves the structure of hair and skin;
prevents the development of cancer and tuberculosis;
protects against viruses and infections;
removes toxins and salts from the human body.

A very simple way to eliminate unpleasant odor in your mouth is to simply eat 1 bay leaf a day, chewing it thoroughly.

Selection of raw materials and further storage

You can buy dried laurel leaves in any seasoning department or grow them at home. It is recommended to collect raw materials for further treatment from the end of November to the beginning of March, when they contain greatest number useful substances. The raw materials should have a strong aroma, have a rich green tint and not have any stains or damage on the leaf plate.
The raw materials must be dried at a temperature not exceeding 40 degrees for 10 days. For further storage, you need to select a glass or ceramic container with a lid, which should be kept in a cool, dark place. The shelf life of medicinal raw materials is no more than 1 year.

Traditional medicine

To treat diseases, it is necessary to prepare medicinal preparations based on laurel, but at the same time strictly adhere to the dosage of raw materials so as not to harm the body.

Diseases and method of application:

To relieve inflammation of muscles and joints. To relieve acute joint pain, you need to use a medicinal compress made from bay leaves. To do this, steam 5 leaves of the plant in 100 ml of boiling water for 1 hour. Add 20 drops of castor oil to the resulting infusion and stir until smooth. Apply a compress to problem areas, covering the top with film and securing with a gauze bandage. For rheumatism and sprains, it is better to use ready-made essential laurel oil, which is sold in pharmacies, rubbing it directly into the skin.
For the treatment of joints. Need 20 pcs. Boil the bay leaf in 1.5 cups of water for no more than 5 minutes, but do not cover the container with a lid. Then remove and leave in a thermos for 4 hours. Cleanse and drink the entire amount in small portions throughout the day. Therapy is carried out for 3 days, if necessary, it should be repeated after a week.
For diabetes mellitus. To prepare a medicinal product, you must follow all stages of preparation. Pour 700-750 ml of boiling water over 10 leaves of the plant, leave for 3 hours, wrapped in a warm towel. Clean and take half an hour before your main meal, drinking half a glass of infusion at a time. During treatment, it is necessary to constantly monitor blood sugar, as a reduction in the dose of insulin may be required.
For oncology. The properties of laurel help alleviate the condition of a patient with throat cancer. To do this, you need to prepare a tincture according to the following recipe: pour 200 g of crushed leaves of the plant with 500 ml of vodka. The mixture should be infused in a closed container for 15 days. Take before meals, drinking 1 tablespoon.
For allergies and diathesis. You can get rid of allergies and diathesis by using special bay oil, which you can make yourself. To do this, you need to pour the crushed leaves of the plant (35 g) into 1 glass linseed oil. Insist in the dark glassware within 8 days. To use the product as a rub for skin rashes, as well as for allergic rhinitis, it is recommended to instill 1 drop into the nose three times a day.
For the treatment of prickly heat. It is effective to use medicinal baths for heat rash in a child. To do this, you need to prepare a medicinal decoction of bay leaves in advance: pour boiling water (1000 ml) over the leaves of the plant (15 pieces) and simmer over low heat for 15 minutes. It is recommended to add the decoction chilled to the prepared bath for the child. The entire course of therapy must be continued for 10 days in a row, but improvements will be noticeable on the 2-3rd day of the procedure.
To eliminate hair problems. To get rid of dandruff, it is recommended to rinse with a decoction of bay leaves. To do this, pour 30 leaves of the plant with boiling water (1 liter) and leave for 3 hours. Before use, the decoction must be strained. To speed up hair growth, you should use oil from the plant. To prepare it, it is recommended to chop 20 laurel leaves and add 250 ml olive oil, keep in a closed container for 8 days. Apply to the roots of the hair, but distribute over the entire length only for those with dry and brittle hair. Therapy is carried out once a week for 2 months.
To normalize the monthly cycle. Products from this plant will help normalize the monthly cycle and terminate pregnancy. Accept folk remedies from laurel is necessary only in case of delay of menstruation for no more than 10 days. Pour dried leaves of the plant (10 g) with water (500 ml), boil for at least 1 hour, without covering the decoction with a lid. Cool to room temperature and drink 1 glass of broth at a time. Your period should start the next day. If they are absent, the procedure cannot be repeated, since such a concentration is toxic if used more than once. Pour boiling water (250 ml) over chopped laurel leaves (35 g), leave for 1 hour. Drink the product warm in one go. Repeat twice more during the day. Your period will start the next day.

Existing contraindications

Like any other remedy, laurel has its contraindications for use, so before starting therapy, you need to familiarize yourself with them and take them into account in the future:

1. The high content of tannins in the plant precludes its use for people suffering from regular constipation, as this will lead to serious complications.
2. It is undesirable for women to use products based on this plant during pregnancy, as this can affect uterine contractions and cause miscarriage.
3. It is prohibited to use products during breastfeeding (breastfeeding).
4. Cannot be used for stomach ulcers, inflammation of the gallbladder, or chronic pancreatitis.
5. It is forbidden to use bay leaves for kidney diseases.

The use of high concentration bay leaf products can cause serious harm to health, which will lead to intoxication of the body

Laurel is a unique plant that not only helps to give food a special aroma and taste, but also copes with various human diseases. However, during treatment, the dosage and timing of therapy cannot be ignored, so you must consult your doctor in advance.

The benefits and harms of bay leaves is a question that everyone needs to know the answer to, since bay leaves are widely used in cooking. You can understand the properties of the plant by studying its composition and scope of application.

The history of the bay leaf

The evergreen laurel tree grows in subtropical and tropical regions. It can be found in the Mediterranean and Transcaucasia, on the Canary Islands, in Asia Minor. The leaves of the plant are highly valued in cooking - they are one of the most famous seasonings. The plant is noteworthy for its healing and even occult properties; laurel is a symbol of victory in many world cultures.

A beautiful ancient Greek myth is associated with the laurel tree, telling about the origin of the plant. According to Ovid, one day the god Eros punished Apollo by shooting him with an arrow of love for the nymph Daphne, and at Daphne herself with an arrow that kills love. The nymph's persecution by Apollo only disgusted her, and she ultimately asked the gods to protect her. The gods fulfilled their wish by turning Daphne into a tree. The saddened Apollo made sure that the laurel remained evergreen, and the plant has since become sacred.

Chemical composition of bay leaf

The benefits of bay leaves for the human body are easily explained - just look at the composition. Plant leaves contain:

vitamins A and C;
B vitamins;
PP acid and saturated fatty acids;
esters and tannins;
potassium and iron;
magnesium, copper, zinc and sodium;
phosphorus and manganese;
cellulose.

The plant not only improves the taste and aroma of dishes, but also gives them additional beneficial properties.

Nutritional value and calorie content of bay leaf

The product consists primarily of carbohydrates - the plant contains about 48 g of them. The second and third places are occupied by fats, about 8 g, and proteins, the share of which is 7 g.

The calorie content of laurel is quite high - 313 kcal per 100 g.

Healing properties of bay leaf

The valuable composition of the plant means that bay leaf brings great health benefits. Namely:

improves appetite and helps digest food;
significantly speeds up metabolic processes;
strengthens the body's defenses against colds;
removes toxins, waste and excess salts;
relieves inflammation and pain;
improves skin color and elasticity, strengthens hair;
normalizes blood pressure and helps fight swelling;
improves the condition of blood vessels and the cardiac system.

The benefit of bay leaf for the kidneys is that the product has a strong diuretic effect and prevents the formation of stones. And the benefit of chewing a bay leaf every day is that the plant will help protect against inflammation of the oral cavity.

Benefits of bay leaf for women

The benefits and harms of bay leaves for women’s health lie in several areas at once. The seasoning provides effective assistance for menstrual irregularities and helps relieve inflammation of the genitourinary system. In addition, laurel is useful for weight loss, it valuable properties actively used in cosmetology - the plant rejuvenates the skin of the face and fights pimples and acne.

What are the benefits of bay leaf for men?

For representatives of the stronger sex, beneficial laurel is valuable primarily for its diuretic properties - medicines based on the plant help in the treatment of kidney diseases and genitourinary inflammations.

Zinc in bay leaves helps proper operation male reproductive system.

Bay leaf for the elderly

The seasoning is especially recommended for use in old age. First of all, bay leaf regulates blood pressure and protects blood vessels from atherosclerosis. In addition, the plant helps with leg pain, which often affects older people. Laurel relieves muscle inflammation and helps improve blood circulation, preventing blood stagnation.

Is bay leaf good for children?

The seasoning is one of the few that is approved for use even by infants. Bay leaves rarely cause a negative reaction, so the medicinal properties of bay leaves are used for newborns for skin irritations.

After 3 months of life, bay leaf is allowed for internal use for children - although the doses must be microscopic, and parents need to carefully monitor the child’s reaction. If allergies to the seasoning do not manifest themselves, laurel will have a beneficial effect on children’s digestion.

Attention! Since laurel can cause severe harm to the fragile body of children, you should consult a pediatrician before introducing the plant into the diet.

Is bay leaf safe for pregnant and lactating women?

The beneficial bay leaf is strictly prohibited for use during pregnancy. Drinks made with this seasoning stimulate strong contractions of internal muscles and can cause harm, causing miscarriage. However, pregnant women can still use laurel externally or add it little by little to dishes.

During breastfeeding It is better to refrain from eating laurel. Sometimes the seasoning causes allergies in infants, which is harmful.

How to use bay leaf for weight loss

Bay leaf is a strong diuretic, so it can enhance the effect of any diet. For example, the following remedy is used for weight loss:

several laurel leaves are poured with water;
cook for about a quarter of an hour over medium heat;
cool and filter.

You need to drink the product at least three times a day in the amount of a large spoon. Bay leaf helps to remove excess fluids from the body - up to several liters. True, the benefits and harms of bay leaf decoction go side by side with each other. The drink should not be consumed for longer than 3 days, otherwise dehydration will occur. Between courses of use useful remedy it is necessary to take a break for at least six months.

Traditional medicine recipes based on bay leaves

There are several basic recipes for internal and external use of the seasoning. The properties of bay leaf in medicine show excellent effects.

Bay leaf decoction

About 30 leaves are thoroughly washed and poured clean water. Then the container with the leaves is placed on the stove over medium heat, and after boiling, boil for about 5 minutes. There is no need to cover the container with a lid. The finished medicine will need to sit for a few more hours.

Brewed bay leaf is beneficial for joint pain and stomach problems, fever and colds. Its dosage depends on the specific disease, but usually the medicine is taken a few sips three times a day.

Bay leaf infusion

Another simple medicine based on bay leaf is a useful infusion. To create it, you need to pour boiling water over a teaspoon of crushed leaves and keep it in a thermos overnight. The infusion is consumed three times a day for stomach and inflammatory ailments - in the amount of 1 large spoon.

The infusion is also suitable for external use; it is used to treat damage and irritation on the skin.

Tea with bay leaf

Drink to prevent illness and as an anti-cold remedy. healthy tea, brewed on bay leaves. It is necessary to pour boiling water over 4 small leaves and boil for a quarter of an hour. Then regular tea leaves and medicinal herbs are added to the product and drunk like regular tea.

The benefits and harms of tea with bay leaves depend on the dosage - you should not take more than 2 cups of the drink per day.

Bay leaf ointment

The benefits of bay leaves for joints are manifested not only in decoctions and infusions, but also in the properties of a healing ointment. It's very easy to prepare:

a small handful of bay leaves is thoroughly crushed;
then take twice the amount of high-quality butter and soften it at room temperature;
The oil is mixed with crushed leaves and steamed for half an hour.

The cooled ointment can be rubbed into sore spots.

Bay oil

For external use, bay leaf oil is used. You can make the medicine at home, for this you need:

take a handful of crushed leaves;
slightly heat the olive or sunflower oil and pour the raw materials into it;
put the mixture in a dark place for about 10 days.

The infused leaves need to be squeezed out and the oil collected in a separate container. The extract, which has absorbed all the beneficial properties, is suitable for inhalation for colds, for external processing wounds and bruises. Bay oil is often used in aromatherapy - the aroma, rich in valuable substances, purifies the air in the room.

Bay leaf baths

A good way to improve your health and boost your immunity is to take a healthy bath with bay leaf. It is enough to add 2 liters of bay decoction to hot water and lie in such a bath. The procedure helps against colds and joint pain, rheumatism and sprains.

How to treat with bay leaf

The medicinal properties of bay leaves are used for a very wide range of diseases. The seasoning has a healing effect for both internal and external ailments.

For joint pain

Diseased joints can be treated with individual remedies from bay leaf, or complex therapy can be used.

Bay infusion is very popular - a teaspoon of dry raw materials is poured with boiling water and infused in a thermos overnight. The infusion is drunk in small sips every few hours for 3 days.
For joint ailments, take baths with bay leaf.
Sore areas can be treated with laurel-based ointment; it will help relieve inflammation and pain.

Important! The benefits and harms of bay leaf infusion lie in its ability to remove excess deposits from joints. But at the same time, it dehydrates the body. In order not to cause harm to health, the product should not be used for a long time, and six-month breaks should be taken between courses.

For cystitis

Healthy baths with laurel decoction are good for cystitis in women. The anti-inflammatory properties of the seasoning quickly improve the body's condition; usually only 3-5 treatment sessions daily are enough. To enhance the effect, you can drink the product in a large spoon in the morning and evening, but not for more than 3 days in a row to avoid harm.

For otitis media

To quickly relieve inflammation in the ear, you need to instill 4 drops of bay decoction into it. You can also take the product orally - three times a day, a couple of large spoons.

For hemorrhoids

The medicinal properties of bay leaf branches and its leaves in the form of a decoction help well against external and internal hemorrhoids. Drink a quarter glass of the drink shortly before eating, twice or thrice a day. In total, during therapy you need to drink at least 3 liters of the beneficial product.

To get rid of an unpleasant disease faster, you can take sitz baths: 100 g of dry leaves are poured with several liters of hot water. In total, it is recommended to take about 12 baths.

For sweaty feet

To get rid of the unpleasant odor emanating from the feet, take mini-baths daily, adding 250 ml of strong laurel infusion to them. You should keep your feet in the water for about a quarter of an hour.

From alcoholism

It is believed that laurel decoction helps get rid of cravings for alcohol. A few crushed leaves need to be boiled, cooled and drunk a couple of sips throughout the day. The daily dose of the medicine should ultimately be at least 2 glasses.

For allergies

The properties of bay leaves help well with allergies.

To get rid of nasal congestion and tearing, you need to instill 3 drops of bay oil into each nostril.
To eliminate allergic rash on the skin, you can take laurel baths - 1 liter of laurel decoction is diluted in 15 liters of ordinary water.

Allergic irritations can also be treated with lotions made from laurel infusion; the product will soften the skin and relieve inflammation and itching.

For sinusitis

The benefits of bay leaf decoction for the human body are manifested in chronic sinusitis. You can inhale and breathe the hot steam rising from the freshly prepared product. For greater effect, you can cover your head from above with a towel.

Advice! When carrying out inhalations, you must be careful and do not take deep breaths to avoid harm from burns to the mucous membranes.

If your period is late

If, due to sudden weight loss or stress, the menstrual cycle is disrupted, you can prepare useful decoction from laurel. The strained product is drunk in one gulp in the volume of a glass. If it works, your period will come the very next day.

The medicine can be used only after a short, maximum ten-day delay. If the decoction does not help, you can no longer repeat the procedure - in large quantities, bay leaf is toxic and harms the body.

For diabetes

The infusion lowers blood glucose if taken daily before meals, three times a day - bay leaves will be beneficial for diabetes. The effect of the drug should appear after a couple of weeks.

For colds and coughs

A vitamin decoction of bay leaves reduces fever and helps fight viruses and infections. To eliminate coughs and colds, it is recommended to drink half a glass of the decoction three times a day.

The decoction is also well suited for the prevention of ARVI, as it improves immunity.

For osteochondrosis and arthritis

Symptoms of arthritis and osteochondrosis are alleviated by bay infusion - you need to drink it throughout the day, a few sips before meals. Medicinal properties bay leaf for joints is that the product removes excess salt deposits, but it can only be taken for 3 days in a row. Otherwise, there will be harm due to the fact that the body will lose nutrients and fluid.

For eye inflammation

For barley and other eye diseases, it is recommended to drink several sips of laurel infusion every hour during the day. To prepare a useful product, you should take only 3 leaves - the infusion should not be strong. Inflammation with this treatment goes away within a couple of days.

To improve potency

The use of bay leaves in cosmetology

The beneficial properties of the seasoning are used to care for the health of skin and hair. Bay leaf helps fight irritations, regulates the production of subcutaneous fat and restores beauty to the face and curls.

Bay leaf for healthy facial skin

The healing properties of bay leaf for the skin help get rid of acne, dry out the skin and remove blackheads. For example, the following lotion for oily skin gives a complex effect:

a weak infusion is prepared from several leaves;
add 2 large spoons to the infusion lemon juice and a similar amount of alcohol;
Wipe the skin with natural lotion in the mornings and evenings every day.

The product will quickly cleanse the face and reduce the production of subcutaneous fat.

Bay leaf for hair beauty

The healing properties of bay leaf for hair are that it helps eliminate flaking of the scalp and dandruff, strengthens the hair follicles and gives hair a healthy shine. This firming mask is popular:

2 large spoons of crushed leaves are poured with boiling water and left for an hour;
add 60 g of liquid honey and stir thoroughly;
distribute the mixture over the curls, trying not to process the very ends - there is a risk of drying them out too much.

The benefits of bay leaf for hair will manifest itself in the fact that the mask will help stop hair loss.

How to use bay leaves in cooking

Bay seasoning is one of the most famous and popular all over the world. Leaves with a bitter taste and pleasant spicy aroma are added to soups and main courses, meat and fish, seafood and vegetables, cereals and sauces.

The plant is often used in canning - for pickling or pickling vegetables, mushrooms and other products. Laurel not only improves the taste, but also gives canned food additional beneficial properties.

In order for the product to improve the taste of dishes, you need to add it in the amount of 1-4 leaves. At the same time, laurel is placed in soups 5 minutes before readiness, and in main courses - 10 minutes before. After a quarter of an hour, the leaf must be removed from the dish, otherwise it will give the food a bitter taste.

The magical properties of bay leaf

In ancient times, laurel was considered sacred. The magical properties of bay leaves are revered even now - people believe that the plant cleanses home energy, protects the house from lightning, attracts prophetic dreams and helps fulfill desires. There is a widespread belief about magical properties bay leaf to attract money - it is believed that a house richly decorated with laurel leaves will never run out of wealth.

Harm of bay leaves and contraindications

The medicinal properties of the plant do not benefit everyone. Sometimes they can cause harm. It is prohibited to use seasoning and products based on it if:

allergies to this product;
pregnancy and lactation;
serious diseases of the liver, intestines and stomach;
severe heart and vascular diseases;
chronic renal failure and cholelithiasis.

How to choose a bay leaf when purchasing

Bay leaves are usually sold in stores in dried form. However, even such a seasoning may be of poor quality and cause harm.

When choosing, you need to look mainly at the color of the leaves. Nice leaves have a dark green color. Greenish yellow pale color indicates that the seasoning is expired, and stains and rust on the leaves even indicate that the leaves are affected by the disease and will cause harm.

Also, fresh leaves should have a pleasant tart aroma. A weak odor indicates that the seasoning has been stored for too long.

Storing bay leaves at home

Dried leaves of the plant are stored for 1 year. It is best to keep them in glass jar, under tightly closed lid, in a dark and cool place.

Conclusion

The benefits and harms of bay leaves depend on the presence of contraindications. If the use of the seasoning is not prohibited, then in moderate quantities it will bring invaluable benefits to the body.