Get some Bay Leaf and let your Anxiety Go!
Bay Leaf (Laurel) – Laurus Nobilis
Origin: Brazil
Used part: Leaf
Description:
The bay, scientific name Laurus nobilis, comes from the Mediterranean and its trees can reach 20 meters in height. Its leaves are showy and with a very characteristic odor, being much used to aromatize meals.
In Ancient Greece, laurel branches were used to make the crowns given to the winners of competitions, in addition to being dedicated to Apollo. The custom of these crowns as a symbol of victory was also used by the kings of Rome at the time of the Caesars. Hence comes the term "laureate" when someone does something exceptional, referring to the act of being crowned with a laurel wreath. In addition to being used to prepare dishes such as beans, soups and meats, laurel leaves have properties that bring health benefits.
Health benefits:
The main nutrients of bay leaf are potassium, fiber, carbohydrate, vitamins B6 and C, magnesium and folic acid among many others. With anti-inflammatory, anti-rheumatic, diuretic, digestive, hepatic, expectorant and stimulant properties, bay leaf is an excellent choice for those suffering from digestive problems such as gastritis, ulcer, gas and inflammation in the liver. It also serves to relieve menstrual cramps as it regulates the flow and menstrual cycle, headaches, rheumatism, ear infections and skin. Its expectorant properties make it powerful medicines against colds and flu as it cleanses the airways. It is also a relaxing plant, reducing stress and anxiety.
When the body receives laurel leaves regularly, the kidneys also work better, thereby eliminating excess fluid accumulated in the body. In this way, the person loses the sensation of being "swollen", and consequently thinner more easily. Muscle and joint pains - especially those caused by rheumatism and arthritis - are progressively relieved until they cease altogether.
Good Herbal Remedy:
- It aids in good digestion, as it stimulates peristaltic movements and increases digestive secretions
- Help with cancer treatment
- Helps in inflammation of the liver
- Helps in infections of the skin and ears
- It facilitates the work of the kidneys helping in the elimination of liquids
- It acts as an expectorant in cases of flu, cold, bronchitis and other diseases of the respiratory system
- Relieves joint and muscle pain caused by arthritis and rheumatism
- Helps in the process of healthy weight loss
- Regulates cycle and menstrual flow and relieves colic
- Combats stress and anxiety
- It assists in relieving unwanted effects of hangover because, just like Boldo, laurel has detoxifying properties and is recommended for cases of digestive discomfort caused by hangover
Directions:
- Put some bay leaves in a pot on the fire with boiling water
- Let it boil for 5 minutes
- Turn off the heat and let it sit for 10 minutes
- Add sweetener to taste and drink
Drink 3 to 4 cups a day.
If you want to use the leaves also in cooking, it is a great option for heavy foods, such as feijoada. Just include a few leaves while the food is on fire being prepared. In this way, the food considered as heavy will fall lighter in the stomach, since the bay leaf helps digestion.
Contraindications:
It is important to look at the amount of this tea. Despite being a drink rich in incredible medicinal properties, over -consumption can turn you into a villain. Never use it early in pregnancy or if you are trying to become pregnant. Also avoid during breastfeeding. The substances of laurel leaves can be harmful in this period for both the woman and the fetus / baby. In addition, laurel tea can harm the stomach when consumed in excess. Even though it is an extremely digestive plant, exaggeration can irritate the stomach and cause discomfort.