Bay leaf has been used for medicinal purposes since ancient Greece. Nowadays, it is mainly used in cooking, often ignoring the dozens of health benefits it offers. Below, we list 7 benefits of burning a bay leaf at home .
Relieve anxiety . Bay leaf contains chemicals that, when inhaled while burning, calm the body and mind. The smoke produced by bay leaves contains chemicals like linalool, which reduce anxiety and stress after 10 minutes.
Relieves inflammation . The ability to reduce inflammation in the body is undoubtedly one of the most important benefits of bay leaf. This property is due to eugenol, which has powerful anti-inflammatory properties.
Strengthens the immune system . Eugenol also has antioxidant properties, and bay leaves contain other nutrients that support the immune system, increasing defenses.
Prevents diabetes . Consuming 1 to 3 grams of bay leaves per day helps regulate blood sugar levels. In addition, its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties help prevent type 2 diabetes.
Greater mental acuity . Burning bay leaves has a calming effect but also awakens the brain. This is why it is an excellent remedy for chronic fatigue thanks to compounds such as cineole and elemicin.
Opens the airways . The aroma of bay leaves helps clear mucus and phlegm from the airways. Instead of burning them, soak them in hot water and breathe in their aroma.
To raise awareness . Bay leaves improve our state of calm and mental alertness, which is why burning them helps us achieve a state of meditation and mindfulness.