DavidWolfe.comOften used in Italian dishes, bay leaf provides a savory flavor in soups and stews. It’s even used in some cosmetics, soaps and detergents, thanks to its aroma. Bay leaf is an ancient herb with plenty of medicinal uses. Benefits of bay leaf include the ability to aid in digestion, treat dandruff, manage diabetes symptoms, heal wounds and even help fight cancer.
Benefits of Bay Leaf
1. Provides Antimicrobial and Antioxidant Properties
Benefits of bay leaf include the ability to provide the body with antimicrobial and antioxidant properties. In a study conducted at North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University, researchers found that white wormwood, rose-scented geranium and bay leaf essential oil all showed powerful antioxidant properties against salmonella and E. coli. Bay leaf ranked the highest in antioxidant activity. (1)
2. Helps Prevent Candida and Heals Wounds
Benefits of bay leaf include the ability to prevent candida. According to a study published in the Archives of Oral Biology, bay leaf was able to disrupt the adhesion of candida to cell walls. The study suggests that bay leaf would make a terrific addition to a candida diet. Benefits of bay leaf also include the ability to heal wounds. Its antimicrobial, antibacterial and antioxidant properties help to speed healing and fight off infection.
3. May Help Fight Cancer
Studies suggest that the benefits of bay leaf may include the ability to help fight cancer. Research published in Nutrition and Cancer found that bay leaf may provide protection from colon cancer. Additional studies have shown that bay leaf may work as a potential natural agent for breast cancer therapy. (2)
4. Helps Manage Diabetes Symptoms
Benefits of bay leaf include the ability to naturally lower blood sugar levels and cholesterol levels. Studies suggest that bay leaf may be useful for diabetics by helping to naturally control diabetes symptoms. According to a study published in the Journal of Clinical Biochemistry and Nutrition, benefits of bay leaf also include the ability to reduce the risk factors of diabetes, as well as cardiovascular disease. Supplementation with bay leaf may be able to reverse diabetes by improving serum glucose and total cholesterol levels. (3)
5. Aids in Digestion
Benefits of bay leaf include the ability to improve digestion. Bay leaf promotes urination, which has a positive impact on the gastrointestinal system. By promoting urination, bay leaf promotes the release of toxins in the body. Studies have shown that the benefits of bay leaf also include the ability to decrease symptoms of celiac disease. Bay leaf can be used as a natural remedy for gastrointestinal problems like bloating, gas, irritable bowel syndrome, constipation and diarrhea. Bay leaf works by soothing an upset stomach and providing relief to the digestive system. It also helps to increase the body’s nutrient absorption, to promote healthy digestion.