What is the laurel?
It is called in Latin Laurus nobilis. In the language of Molière, it is found under the name of noble laurel, laurel sauce, true laurel or even laurel of Apollo.
The name laurel actually brings together several types of plants which themselves come in various species. They can generally be classified into two categories: ornamental laurels and aromatic laurels. Ornamental laurels are ornamental shrubs. Some of them are poisonous, while others are not. In all cases, laurel refers to a shrub belonging to the Lauraceae family and native to the Mediterranean basin.
The aromatic laurel is edible, it is used in the kitchen to flavor many dishes. Bay leaves and berries are also used in other forms to deliver all of their health benefits.
The laurel is often presented as a symbol of glory, victory and success. In Antiquity, its leaves braided the crowns of heroes, and its branches were waved to show joy and jubilation. In the Middle Ages, laurel berries (bacca laurea) crowned the heads of successful students, and gave their name to the iconic high school graduation exam. Text to add. This symbolism gives full meaning to the expression “to rest on one’s laurels”.
What are the benefits of laurel?
The laurel is one of those plants used in cooking both for their aromatic power and for their health benefits. Thanks to its antiseptic, bactericidal, antifungal, expectorant, antiviral propertiesetc., the laurel can be used for:
- calm the urinary infections
- liver detoxification
- relieve the dental pains
- stimulate the appetite and improve digestion
- fight against aerophagia
- relieve pain associated with chronic respiratory conditions
- regulate the nervous system
Herbalists frequently advise noble laurel in winterbecause it is an expectorant that helps get rid of colds and bronchitis. The laurel also has virtues to fight against anxiety. Many people point to the benefits of bay leaf for improving self-confidence.
To know : laurel essential oil brings strength and courage. Classified among the relaxing and purifying essential oils, it is used in particular in skin and hair care.
How to eat bay leaf?
The laurel is first used in the kitchen as condiment. Bay leaves flavor many dishes in sauce, broths, etc… alone or included in the famous bouquet garni. We also find the laurel in the form ofinfusion to facilitate the digestion.
Outside the kitchen, the laurel is often used in the form ofessential oil :
- for external use for a massage intended to relieve contractures and muscle pain, but also in friction (diluted in vegetable oil) in case of respiratory ailments (flu, bronchitis, etc.)
- in atmospheric diffusion to purify the indoor air and for an action anti stress
- in local application for its benefits on the skin or to fight fungal infectionsTHE canker sores…
To note : the culture of the laurel in its garden is accessible to all, on the condition of having a sunny place. Laurel thrives both in pots and in the ground. Be careful, however, to preserve it from frost and protect it from caterpillars and mealybugs.
What are the benefits of laurel in the house?
Bay leaf is a natural cleanser par excellence, it eliminates bacteria in the toilet and kitchen. Thanks to its pleasant aroma, its leaves give off bad ambient odors and fight brilliantly against mold and humidity.
How to use it ? In essential oil, just pour a few drops into a spray bottle filled with water or household alcohol to clean and perfume your interior! In the kitchen, bay leaf acts as a natural deodorant to absorb frying odours.
To know : few people know this, but bay leaves are an excellent fly repellent!
Why burn bay leaves in the house?
The aroma, which is released with the smoke when burning a bay leaf, neutralizes the smell of damp and mold. In addition, it has a calming effect. Inhaling the aroma laurel smoke is reputed to be a powerful anti-stress. The burning of bay leaves is not new, it is an old Indian tradition practiced in places of worship and as part of spiritual rites and rituals.
What are the contraindications of bay leaf?
- The consumption of bay leaves or their use in the form of essential oil is not recommended for pregnant women and women who are breastfeeding their child.
- Laurel essential oil is also not recommended for children under 7 years old.
- In addition, applied externally, it is likely to cause allergic reactions, so take precautions when using it for the first time, especially if you have fragile skin.
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