This type of leaf available in Vietnam offers numerous health benefits, including diabetes prevention, heart disease support, and respiratory health assistance.
Bay Leaf, originating from the Mediterranean, is a spice widely used in many Asian countries. Vietnam is one of the few countries that cultivate bay trees extensively, producing high-quality bay leaves that are exported to various regions around the world, including South Asia, East Asia, the United States, and European Union countries.
This type of leaf has a spicy, bitter flavor and a mild aromatic scent, commonly used for marinating, stir-frying, making sauces, and brewing tea. Bay leaves enhance the flavor of dishes like pho, curry, stews, and soups.
Vietnam is one of the few countries that cultivate bay trees extensively.
This leaf is rich in natural nutrients such as vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin K, as well as minerals including calcium, iron, magnesium, and manganese.
Below are the scientifically proven health benefits of bay leaves.
Blood Sugar Regulation
Another study published in the U.S. National Library of Medicine indicated that bay leaves can help regulate blood sugar levels, preventing diabetes and cardiovascular diseases.
This is due to the presence of polyphenols in bay leaves, which are powerful antioxidants. These compounds may improve insulin sensitivity and reduce post-meal blood sugar spikes.
Bay leaf tea can be enjoyed every morning to control blood sugar levels while also enhancing mental clarity and boosting the immune system. To prepare the tea, boil three bay leaves and ground cinnamon, adding lemon or honey to taste.
Preventing Kidney Stones
A 2014 study from Iran showed that bay leaves can reduce urea levels—a type of enzyme that, when imbalanced, can lead to some stomach disorders and kidney stones in your body.
Drinking bay leaf tea or adding it to cooking can help reduce bloating.
Digestive Support
Bay leaves contain enzymes that aid digestion by promoting the breakdown of proteins and fats in the digestive tract. Drinking bay leaf tea or adding it to dishes can help alleviate bloating and indigestion.
Moreover, bay leaves can prevent stomach damage and promote digestion, helping to release toxins from the body and support digestive health. The organic compounds present in bay leaves are very effective in relieving stomach pain and soothing irritable bowel syndrome.
Potential Cancer Prevention
According to the Journal of Nutrition Research, bay leaves show promising results as an anti-cancer agent. The combination of antioxidants and organic compounds in bay leaves, such as catechin, linalool, and parthenolide, helps protect your body from the effects of cancer-causing free radicals.
Some studies conducted in 2013 and 2017 also indicated that bay leaves could help inhibit the growth of breast and colorectal cancer cells.
100g of bay leaves contains 46.5 mg of vitamin C, beneficial for the immune system.
Memory Enhancement and Stress Reduction
The compound linalool found in bay leaves can reduce stress and anxiety levels in the body. Additionally, it has natural calming properties that can help you relax and decrease the risk of depression. In a 2021 study, scientists also found that bay leaves support memory improvement and reduce cognitive deficits.
Treating Respiratory Conditions
In 100g of bay leaves, there are 46.5 mg of vitamin C, which is beneficial for the immune system. Bay leaves can also be used as an essential oil for steam inhalation. Inhaling this oil or drinking dry bay leaf tea may help relieve respiratory issues such as cough, nasal congestion, and asthma. This type of leaf also has expectorant properties, which help clear the airways.
Precautions When Using Bay Leaves
Do not consume fresh bay leaves as they can cause digestive discomfort. Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals should consult a doctor before using this type of leaf.
