Bay leaf as a medicine
As we said in the introduction, the
bay leaf from ancient times has been used as a spice and as a medicine, mainly because of its a
ntiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties. It is
rich in the B group vitamins (riboflavin, pyridoxine, niacin and pantonic acid) that help
better functioning of nerves and muscles system, positively influences the metabolism, hormonal status and bay leaf contains many minerals: potassium, copper, manganese, calcium, selenium, iron, magnesium and zinc. Bay leaf tea is used in the
treatment of diseases of the digestive system, anorexia, loss of appetite, diabetes, cardiovascular disorders. It is also used to disinfect places containing influenza viruses, colds and various other microbes. It is also used as a sedative in case of nervousness, tension and insomnia, but if you overdo it with the amount it can cause hallucinations. Also, bay leaf can be of a great help in the treatment of gout and rheumatism, and the essential oil is used successfully in the treatment of diseases of the lymph nodes because it raises the immunity, and if only a few drops are rubbed on the area of the lymph nodes you alleviate the symptoms. Bay leaf-oil is used for inhalation in case of problems with the respiratory tract, it reduces unpleasant frequent cough and encourages us to cough up the mucus from the lungs. In the phytotherapy leaves are picked when they are already fully developed, not the young ones. In cosmetics bay leaf as an anti-dandruff showed excellent results and is an integral part of many creams and lotions for oily skin and hair in the form of shampoo.
Bay leaf for cough
Here are some interesting recipes against a strong and persistent cough:
- Finely chop three bay leaves, pour over 2.5 dl of water and cook for about ten minutes.
- Remove from the heat and keep the lid on for another ten minutes, then you need to drain it.
- In the filtered tea, add a tablespoon of lemon juice and two tablespoons of local honey.
- The beverage is drunk two to three times daily in an amount up to 3 dl.
Thus prepared
bay leaf tea for cough is recommended for strengthening the immune system influenced with the flu, and is most effective with bronchitis and respiratory problems. One old folk recipe also goes like this: Put in a bowl half a litre of water and 150 grams of sugar, let it boil and add ten sheets of bay leaves and cook for another 30 minutes. After that it needs to be removed from the container and pour the mixture into a suitable cup or jar. Use it freely if necessary!