Cinnamomum sp - Bay leaf

Cinnamomum sp. (bay leaf)

The bay leaf is an aromatic leaf commonly used in cooking. It can be used whole, either dried or fresh, in which case it is removed from the dish before consumption.

Medicinal uses

Traditionally, it has been used as herbal medicine against number of diseases such as rheumatism, sprains, indigestion, earaches, and to enhance perspiration (Fang et al., 2005). It was reported by different researches that bay leaf can also be used to treat diabetes and migraine (Fang et al., 2005).

It also helps to manage high cholesterol due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It lowers the level of total blood cholesterol, bad cholesterol (LDL) and triglycerides. The heart-healthy fats present in this plant also improves the level of good cholesterol in the body.