Laurel Leaf

Other Names : Laurus nobilis, Bay Laurel, Sweet Bay, Indian Bay, Laurel, Bay Laurel, Sweet Laurel, Grecian Laurel, Roman Laurel and Royal Laurel.

Special Precautions of Bay Leaf

There are several types of plants that are called bay leaves, but the only true bay leaf is Laurus nobilis. Leaves from any other plant cannot be said to have the same health benefits, and some can be toxic. According to the Herb Society of America, the Kalmia latifolia is poisonous, even though it is related to and looks similar to the bay leaf. Leaves of the California 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.

The benefits of Bay Leaf are

Take internally for:

• soothing minor stomach upsets
• relieving gas
• boosting the immune system
• type 2 diabetes : lowering blood sugar levels
• Migraine headaches
• bacterial infections
• gastric ulcers
• arthritis and rheumatism
• improve heart function:
• prevent Heart attacks
• prevent Strokes

Apply externally for:

• bruises and sprains
• insect bites .