For the Romans, laurel represented victory and glory, with wreaths crafted from its leaves to symbolize triumph and honor. Chariot race winners, for instance, were adorned with laurel wreaths as a mark of their success. A similar significance was recognized in ancient Greece, where scholars of physics received crowns made of laurel branches upon completing their studies. While its use as a ceremonial headdress has largely faded, laurel remains a valued addition in modern kitchens, where its leaves enhance dishes with their aromatic flavor. Beyond its culinary appeal, true laurel should not be overlooked as a medicinal plant. Its leaves are reputed for their soothing qualities, offering relief for conditions such as bruises, muscle pain, rheumatism, stomach discomfort, or inflammation. Today, we delve deeper into the remarkable properties of this “noble green.”
Ingredients and effects of real bay leaves
The leaves of the evergreen bay tree are infused with powerful antioxidants. Laurel can prevent cell renewal and protect against oxidative stress. Bay leaves are made up of a unique combination of flavonoids, tannins, bitter substances and essential oils. Essential oils are mainly responsible for the unique tasting experience and healing effects of the plant. It is precisely these fragrant plant substances that are among the most powerful antioxidants. The antioxidant power of bay leaf should not be hidden from that of resveratrol in red wine or EGCG in green tea.
A 2017 study looked at essential oils and their properties. Researchers have already found over 50 different substances in the essential oil. Among other things, the oil was tested against the bacterial strains E. coli and Staphylococcus. From this they were able to determine the antibacterial and antifungal properties (1). Various studies have examined the effect of bay leaf on blood sugar and cholesterol levels. For example, according to the “Journal of Clinical Biochemestry and Nutrition,” it was found that bay leaf can have a positive effect on cholesterol and blood sugar levels. This led to the conclusion that the leaves could be useful, for example, in patients with type 2 diabetes.
True laurel as a medicinal plant in folk medicine
Traditionally, bay leaf was used for stomach problems, among other things. Laurel essential oils can stimulate digestive juices and therefore help improve digestion. Dried bay leaves could be used to prepare and drink a tea to relieve, for example, satiety or flatulence. A bay leaf steam bath can also clear the airways and thus loosen blocked mucus.
Discover the miracle cure for radiant skin! | Benefits of elderflower ointmentBay leaf essential oils are also said to be helpful in repelling mosquitoes. It has not yet been shown in human studies whether they can also promote wound healing. Laurel is also said to have pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory properties. They are said to be as strong as the effects of commercially available drugs. Therefore, in cases of rheumatic disorders, sprains or bruises, a mixture of bay essential oil could be mixed with a base oil such as olive or almond oil and applied to the affected area. Traditionally, laurel is also used in aromatherapy and for smoking. The scent is intended to provide relaxation, reduce stress and at the same time promote concentration.
Real laurel in the kitchen
Bay leaves deserve a permanent place in the kitchen. The dried leaves are suitable for soups, stews, sauerkraut, bean dishes, baked stews or marinades. In a cioppino, a typical dish of San Francisco sailors, leaves must not be missing in the aromatic tomato sauce. Bay leaf is also often found in spice blends traditionally used for preserves. In Europe and the USA, bay leaves are mainly used to season savory dishes. Only the English like the taste of sweets or vanilla sauces. There are therefore no limits to the pleasure of experimenting. Whether sweet or savory, the leaves should be removed before serving. Bay leaves could harm your digestive tract due to their sharp edges.
Where can you order laurel?
Bay leaves belong in every spice cabinet. At the Achterhof you will find a wide selection of spices, spice mixes and more. With the discount code kraeuterkeller10 save 10% on your entire order. Click here to go to the Achterhof.
Collect wild herbs in nature
If you want to collect wild herbs and medicinal plants in nature yourself and want to know which herbs you can collect at home throughout the year, then our herb book «With wild herbs and medicinal plants all year round“(available here) is exactly the right guide for you. We would like to get you more passionate about wild herbs so that you can use them in your medicine cabinet or kitchen and also give you the best possible support when harvesting.
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Choose elderflowers now and make an effective home remedy from themThere you will also find our other herbal products, such as our educational children’s book «Ben and Mara discover the world of wild herbs» and our herb cellar magazines. Feel free to stop by. A purchase from our store directly supports this blog. We also pack everything ourselves.
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