Benefits of Bay Leaf
Bay leaf is the sweet-smelling leaf that is usually used for adding flavor to dishes. It is mostly used like an ingredient in various Mediterranean cuisines like soups, braises and stews. These leaves may be ground or crushed before cooking to impart more aroma and flavor to the dish. Here are the benefits of bay leaf.
1. Treats cardiovascular disease
As an essential part of most Mediterranean seasonings, the bay leaf comprises many valuable compounds that enhance the health of the cardiovascular system. The caffeic acid, salicylates and phytonutrients that are found in great quantity in bay leaves help treat cardiovascular disease. Actually, consuming bay leaves regularly is associated with reduced stroke likelihood.
2. Cancer prevention
Bay leaf provides catechins, eugenol and quercetin, which are components that have protective effects against different kinds of cancer. The phytonutrient called parthenolide, which is found in bay leaves, is known for specifically stopping the development of cells that cause cervical cancer through inducing apoptosis.
3. Anti-inflammatory
Traditionally, the bay leaf is used like a cure for inflammatory conditions, specifically arthritis. Parthenolide is an efficient anti-inflammatory component and it can be located in huge amounts in bay leaves. Individuals with arthritis should add bay leaves to their meal plan to get a natural relief from their symptoms.
4. Antioxidant
Bay leaves have highly effective antioxidant and anti-bacterial properties. The antioxidants present in these leaves can assist in diseases like cancer and diabetes. In diabetics, bay leaf encourages the efficient production of insulin. Moreover, the antioxidants help fight free radicals that cause cancer.
4. Digestive benefits
The bay leaves may be utilized for dealing with upset stomachs and also lessening the indications of digestive ailments. They contain useful enzymes that assist in breaking down proteins, thus promoting digestion.
When consumed whole, the bay leaf is pungent with a very bitter and sharp taste. This is its only drawback.
