Bay leaf has been used medicinally since the time of the ancient Greeks. Today, it’s mostly used in cooking, often ignoring the dozens of health benefits it offers. Here are 7 benefits of burning a bay leaf at home.
Relieves anxiety. Bay leaves contain chemicals that, when inhaled while burning, calm the body and mind. The smoke produced by bay leaves contains chemicals such as linalool, which reduce anxiety and stress after 10 minutes.
Relieves inflammation. The ability to reduce inflammation in the body is certainly one of the most important benefits of bay leaf. This property is due to eugenol, which has powerful anti-inflammatory properties.
Strengthens the immune system. Eugenol also has antioxidant properties, and bay leaves contain other nutrients that support the immune system, boosting defenses.
Increased mental alertness. Burning bay leaves has a calming effect but can also awaken the brain. This is why it’s an excellent remedy for chronic fatigue thanks to compounds such as cineole and elemicin.
Opens the airways. The aroma of bay leaves helps clear mucus and phlegm from the airways. Instead of burning them, immerse them in hot water and inhale the aroma.
Increase mindfulness. Bay leaves improve our state of calm and mental alertness, so burning them helps us achieve a state of meditation and mindfulness.
