Medicinal properties of laurel

Laurel (lat. Laurus nobilis) belongs to the laurel family, and is native to Asia Minor. Laurel is a shrub or tree with shiny leathery leaves, about 7 to 10 cm long. It is popular as a spice and as an ornamental plant, and is also used in medicine.

According to Greek mythology, the beautiful nymph Daphne turned into a laurel tree to escape from the infatuated Apollo. The laurel thus became a symbol of Apollo, and laurel wreaths were given to winners and poets in his honor. From that custom came the term laureate, which in Latin means "wreathed with a laurel".

An aromatic treasure trove of nutrients

The leaves have a very aromatic, spicy, bitter and strong taste. Fresh leaves contain vitamin A, C, and vitamins of the B complex. Minerals include calcium, manganese, iron, selenium, zinc and magnesium.

Laurel contains about 1 to 3 percent of essential oil, which consists of cineol, eugenol, tannins, sesquiterpenes and bitter substances. Laurel essential oil is obtained by extracting from bay leaves. Cineol has the ability to act against certain types of cancer cells by stimulating apoptosis (programmed cell death).

It is also responsible for the antibacterial, antifungal (anti-fungal) and soothing effects of laurel. Eugenol works against epilepsy and has a sedative effect. Tannins have astringent properties and help treat diarrhea. Sesquiterpenes act against leukemia.

Dried laurel fruits contain essential oil whose composition consists of terpenes (cineole, terpineol, citral), sesquiterpenes, myristic acid.

Medicinal effect of laurel

Due to its rich chemical composition, bay leaves provide a wide range of medicinal benefits. Laurel was traditionally used in the treatment of many diseases, and was very popular with the Greeks and Romans.

1. Facilitates digestion

Bay leaves are used for digestive problems. They have the ability to reduce bloating. Bay leaves calm the work of the stomach, stimulate the appetite and the secretion of digestive juices. Fruit tea is used to stimulate the appetite.

2. It helps with diseases of the respiratory system

In case of bronchitis, it is recommended to apply laurel poultices. The wraps are dipped in the water in which the bay leaf was boiled. Such compresses help with severe coughs, bronchitis and infections of the respiratory system.

3. Helps with menstrual problems

Acting as an emmenagogue, bay leaves can promote regular and normal menstruation. Their use can also help relieve menstrual pain. They also have the ability to treat vaginal discharge.

4. Calms nervousness and stress

One of the lesser known benefits of using bay leaves is its natural calming power. Bay leaves lower the level of stress hormones in the body. An increased amount of stress hormones can be harmful to health, and the use of laurel helps to achieve calmness and relaxation.

5. Stimulates the immune system

Bay leaves are rich in vitamin A and vitamin C, as well as the mineral zinc, which play an important role in maintaining strong and healthy immunity. Vitamin A ensures a healthy mucous membrane of the eyes, nose, mouth, throat, lungs and digestive system. Vitamin C has antibacterial and antiviral properties, thus strengthening the immune system.

6. It acts as an antiseptic and antifungal

According to numerous studies, laurel essential oil shows numerous anti-fungal and antiseptic properties. Laurel, as an antiseptic, protects wounds from infection and prevents the growth of bacteria, reports Alternativa.