Laurel, the laurel (Laurus nobilis), is a tree or an evergreen shrub with oval leaves and shiny, which are responsible for the main health benefits of this plant.
The properties of the laurel are due to its rich content of essential oils, present in the berries and leaves. The bay leaves may be collected and used throughout the year, but are particularly rich in principles and benefits of aromatic essences during the winter and early spring.
Among the components present in the bay leaves are eugenol and limonene, which are accompanied by other active volatile substances considered beneficial due to their antiseptic properties, Antioxidants, digestive, anticancer, astringenti and diuretiche.
The fresh leaves of laurel are an important source of vitamin C. 100 grams of laurel leaves contain fact, 46,5 milligrams, about 77% of the recommended daily allowances. Vitamin C, or ascorbic acid, is one of the most powerful natural antioxidants able to counteract the action of free radicals. Vitamin C, in addition to, has anti-viral, stimulates the immune system and promotes healing of wounds.
In addition to, bay leaves, when they are fresh, are a good source of folic acid. Contain about 180 milligrams each 100 grams. Folic acid is important for the synthesis of DNA and during pregnancy prevents the appearance of defects in the baby at birth. Bay leaves contain vitamin A, essential for maintaining the health of the view, skin and mucous membranes.
Not to be underestimated is the mineral content of bay leaves. Within them we find potassium, copper, football, manganese, iron, selenium, zinc and magnesium. Potassium is important to keep under control the blood pressure and heart rate. Iron is necessary for the production of red blood cells.
The infusion of laurel is used to relieve stomach pains or caused by colic. The lauric acid content in the leaves of laurel possesses natural repellent against insects and pests. The components present in the bay leaves are used for the production of medicines for the treatment of arthritis, muscle aches, bronchitis e flu symptoms.
The infusion of bay leaves promotes digestion and helps to expel gas from the gastro-intestinal. The medicated wine made from bay leaves is a natural tonic for the digestive system. In the case of joint pain, rheumatism and arthritis you can use the macerated oily base of laurel leaves to make the benefits of massage or compresses.
It is also a useful remedy in case of attacks of sciatica. The laurel is useful in eliminating bronchial catarrh and is beneficial in states of fatigue of nervous origin. At Last, the use of extracts of bay leaves proved to be beneficial in the treatment of the common headache and migraine, while, in the Middle Ages, bay leaves were considered a natural remedy suitable to regulate the menstrual cycle.
Summing up the laurel can:
- treat rheumatism
treat muscle aches and bruises
foster digestone
alleviate fever
for its relaxing (in combination with camomile and other herbs)
exploit expectorant properties
keep moths away from the closets and drawers
In the kitchen:
Bay leaves are used both fresh and dried, it only takes one or two leaves, to flavor:
meat (roast in particular)
fish
broth, soups
herbal teas and infusions
Laurel to decorate:
A crown scented kitchen and a supply aromatic ready…
Naturopath and Wellbeing Consultant Eliosnatura, He takes care of feeding, personal care and medical conditions through the use of all-natural products. Its strength lies in the combination of "power and good health", factor pointed out by the World Health (WHO) considers that adequate nutrition and health fundamental human rights.
