Changes

[[File:Bay leavesLaurus.jpg|thumb|350px|left|Bay leavesLaurus nobilis]]Other Names : Laurus nobilis, Bay Laurellaurel, Sweet Baysweet bay, Indian Baybay tree (esp. United Kingdom), Laureltrue laurel, Bay LaurelGrecian laurel, Sweet Laurellaurel tree, Grecian Laurel, Roman Laurel and Royal Laurel.<br>laurel==Special Precautions of Bay Laurel Leaf==There are several types of plants that are called bay * Use in moderation due to possibe narcotic properties attributed to methyl eugenol.* Laurel leavesaren’t widely known as an allergenic substance, but the only true bay leaf is Laurus nobilis. Leaves from any other plant cannot be said to contact dermatitis and eczema breakouts have the same health benefits, and some can be toxicbeen sporadically reported. According If you’re allergic to the Herb Society other members of America, the Kalmia latifolia is poisonousLauraceae family, even though it is related you will likely be allergic to and looks similar to the bay leafleaves as well. Leaves of the California * Should not be used during pregnancy.* Don't confuse with Nerium oleander (Laurier Rose) which is toxic.* Don't confuse with Prunus laurocerasus (cherry laurel, or Umbellularia californica are sometimes sold as "California bay leaves," but they can damage the central nervous system and cause respiratory distress when inhaled) which is toxic* Don't confuse with [[Bay Leaf]].* See precautions [[Aromatherapy]].

==The benefits of Bay Laurel Leaf are==*Take internally forCoughs & Colds :** soothing minor stomach upsets : Digestive Health: Bay Placing a cloth soaked in water in which Laurel leaves have a very strong effect on the gastrointestinal systembeen boiled provides relief from cough, both stimulating urination as a diureticcold, which decreases the toxicity bronchitis and chest infections.* Aches & Pains : Essential oil of the bodyLaurel leaf is massaged on sprained areas and for relieving headaches. The oil also provides relief from swellings, but also stimulating vomiting (as an emetic) when something toxic has been consumedrheumatic and arthritic pain. Furthermore, the organic compounds found in bay * Fever : Laurel leaves are very effective for settling upset stomachsinfusion promotes sweating, soothing irritable bowel syndromebreaking fever, or even lessening the and flu symptoms of Celiac’s disease. Some of the more complex proteins in our modern diet can be difficult to digest* Immune System : Colds, but the unique enzymes found in bay leaves help to facilitate efficient digestion flu, tonsillitis and nutrient intakeviral infections.** relieving gas**Respiratory Conditions: When the essential oil of bay laurel leaves is extracted, it can be mixed into a salve and applied to the chest to help alleviate various respiratory conditions. This can also be achieved with a poultice made of the leaves. Spread it on the chest and allow it to remain overnight. Inhaling the vapors has a similar effect to aromatherapy and can loosen up phlegm and eliminate dangerous bacteria that may be trapped in your respiratory tracts thanks to its natural antibacterial quality.** boosting the immune systemDigestion : Laurel leaves are used for treatment of digestive disorders. They reduce flatulence, Dyspepsia and loss of appetite.** Diabetes : A study was conducted by the Department of Human Nutrition, Pakistan, to test the effect of bay leaf on type 2 diabetes : Bay leaves have been directly connected . Forty people with improved insulin receptor function type 2 diabetes were chosen for the study. They were divided into four groups and regulated blood sugar levelseach group was given different quantities of bay leaf. For patients at At the end of the 30-day study, it was observed that all the subjects showed a marked increase in serum glucose. The conclusion was that using bay leaf reduces risk of developing cardiovascular diseases and Type 2 diabetes or for those who have already developed . A similar study was conducted at the condition, regular consumption Department of bay leaves can significantly lower Medical Technology, Zarqa Private University, Jordan. Similar to the chances above study, all subjects showed a remarkable decrease in levels of diabetic episodesplasma glucose. Bad cholesterol levels also dropped. The conclusion of this study was that bay leaf not only improves insulin function but also reduces cardiovascular disease risks.** Migraine headaches** bacterial infections** gastric ulcers**Anti-Inflammatory Activity: One of the most important benefits of bay Laurel leaves is their ability to reduce inflammation throughout the body. Bay leaves contain a rather unique phytonutrient, called parthenolide, which can quickly reduce inflammation and irritation when topically applied to affected areas, such as sore joints or areas affected by arthritis. This effect can also be achieved through normal consumption of bay leaf spice.** arthritis and rheumatismgenito-urinary System : Scanty periods.** improve heart function Heart Health: Caffeic acid and rutin are both important organic compounds found in bay Laurel leaf that greatly boost heart health. Rutin strengthens capillary walls in the heart and the body’s extremities, while caffeic acid can help eliminate “bad” cholesterol from the cardiovascular system.** prevent Heart attacks** prevent Strokes**Cancer Prevention : The unique combination of antioxidants and organic compounds in bay laurel leaves, including phytonutrients, catechins, linalool, and parthenolide, helps to protect the body from the effects of free radicals. Free radicals can cause healthy cells to mutate into cancerous cells, which bay leaves are particularly adept at preventing.**Anxiety and Stress: One of the least commonly known benefits of bay Laurel leaves is their naturally soothing quality. Linalool is often associated with thyme and basil, but it is also present in bay leaves and can help to lower the level of stress hormones in the body, especially when used in aromatherapy. Excess stress hormones can be dangerous for long-term health, so bay leaves can help you calm down and remain relaxed even in your most high-anxiety moments.*Apply externally for:** bruises and sprains** insect bites .** Hair Health: If you want to improve the health of your hair follicles and eliminate dandruff, steep bay Laurel leaves in water and then rub that on your scalp after shampooing. The chemicals and volatile ingredients in bay leaves can help to eliminate dry skin and dandruff.