5 Great Benefits of Bay Leaves l Ways to Use Bay Leaves l How Bay Leaves Heal

Bay leaves have a rich history entrenched in ancient Greece and Rome. The noble men of the time made their crowns out of the herbs. This meant that the person was either accomplished, a war hero, a king or sports star. A native of Asia Minor this strong musky herb was used during ancient times for health issues. Usage ranged from treating stomach probllems, liver problems, joint pain and kidney problems. It was steeped in hot water to make teas to also alleviate fevers. They were also crushed and added to soups and stews for flavor. Today bay leaves are just as beneficial as they can help fight colds, diabetes, digestion, boost the immune system and can improve the condition of the scalp. There are 5 different bay leaves: Mediterranean bay leaves, West Indian bay leaves, Indian bay leaves, California bay leaves and Indonesian bay leaves. People mostly stick to the Mediterranean for non-vegetarian meals and vegetarian meals. Here is how bay leaves may help what ails you.

It has Anti-cancer Properties

An estimated 100,000 men and women die of cancer every year, according to the National Cancer Institute. Overall 14 million people suffer from some type of cancer. Additionally, approximately 39 percent of men and women will be diagnosed with cancer at some point during their lifetime. As scientists are finding more about the medicinal properties of herbs, bay leaves are in the running to kill cancer. If you never heard of caffeic acid, do not worry. Caffeic acid has chemo-protective properties that fight cancer. Another component found in bay leaves is quercetin, which is also said to kill or assist in killing cancer cells. Bay leaves might be the star to help find a cure for cancer.

May Treat Chronic Inflamation

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Many Americans suffer from chronic inflammation, which can undermine our health. People with inflammation can experience autoimmune diseases, various cancers, diabetes, asthmas and arthritis. If inflammation becomes chronic, then diseases can start to attack the body. Bay leaves are great for the ability to reduce inflammation in the body. The reason for this could be from the phytonutrients found in them. This can tackle inflammation and irritation by placing bay leaf oil on the site. It can be applied all over the body to help muscles. Additionally, make a poultice of ground bay leaves and make it into a paste that soothe joint pain. Drink a tea made from bay leaves to help reduce inflammation internally.