What heals a decoction of bay leaves. Bay leaf - medicinal properties and contraindications, recipes


Bay leaf - the name of the leaves of the plant Noble laurel, belonging to the Laurel family. The homeland of the plant is Asia Minor and the Mediterranean. turned out to be one of the ancient spices, which occupied an important place in the life of many tribes. In ancient Rome and Greece, the plant was considered sacred, and winners in competitions were hung with its leaves and branches, considering the plant a symbol of warmth, love and protection from nature.

Today, bay leaves are grown in many countries with suitable climatic conditions - Turkey, France, Spain, Crimea, Albania and Guatemala. The use of the leaf is effective not only in cooking, but also in medicine, since the plant contains many useful substances and minerals. Additionally, the plant is used in the chemical industry to produce camphor and cineole.

The chemical composition of the laurel leaf:

  • cellulose;
  • fatty acid;
  • retinol;
  • ascorbic;
  • phosphorus;
  • calcium;
  • selenium;
  • manganese;
  • iron;
  • phytoncides;
  • tannins.

100 grams of a leaf contains 312 kcal. Additionally, the composition of the plant includes an essential oil, which gives it such a specific smell, organic acids, for example, valerian, nylon.

Medicinal properties of laurel leaves

Bay leaf is a unique plant that can cure many diseases, because it has the following properties:

  • increased appetite in its absence;
  • lowers blood pressure;
  • promotes the removal of edema in different parts of the body;
  • improves the digestive process;
  • boosts the immune system;
  • provides relief for arthritis;
  • suppresses the appearance of tubercle bacillus;
  • eliminates fever and fever;
  • used for stomatitis;
  • used to improve the condition during diabetes;
  • helps during bleeding;
  • has an astringent property;
  • used for malignant neoplasms;
  • has antibacterial and antifungal effects;
  • contributes to the rapid discharge of urine;
  • reduces the pain of menstruation;
  • used for joint pain.

The leaves and fruits of the plant give an essential oil, which has an excellent disinfectant, it is used for stretch marks, bruises, joint pain, tumors. Laurel leaf essential oil is an ingredient in antiseptic soaps, as well as some ointments and creams. The use of essential oil is effective in confectionery and liqueur production. You need to be careful, because in some cases the oil causes an allergic reaction. The use of oil is important only when used externally, not internally. The benefits of the plant are truly incredible.

What helps a decoction of bay leaf?

Often, bay leaf is used as part of medicines, ointments, decoctions, tinctures and even oils. Such exploitation allows a person to treat the problem that has appeared not only from the inside, but also externally. The benefits of a decoction, from which bay leaf heals:

  • Problems of the digestive system, constipation, flatulence, bloating and diarrhea, cleanses the intestines of toxins and harmful components.
  • Helps cleanse the joints from salt deposits inside them. At the same time, it allows a person to forget about pain for a long time and eliminate the problem.
  • Effective use of the sheet for allergies, which manifests itself both externally and internally. The benefits of the plant are great, but it is worth remembering that it itself can cause rashes.
  • Leaf decoction effectively eliminates acne, boils, cleanses the skin, makes it shiny and healthy.
  • The use of the drug is effective for healing hair.
  • The benefit of the decoction shows itself with painful periods and their complete absence.
  • The decoction is effective during pregnancy. It has a positive effect on the expectant mother. It is important to remember that during pregnancy, the remedy should be used with extreme caution, as it provokes a miscarriage.

Laurel has antibacterial, astringent, antifungal and diuretic effects, which allow you to completely cleanse the body of negative substances and restore its previous work even with menstruation, joint pain, pregnancy and allergies. For preventive purposes, the decoction is used for stomatitis, colitis, aminorrhea, as well as disorders of the nervous system.

The leaf of the plant is squeezed out, and an essential oil is obtained from it, which is an excellent disinfectant during edema and bruises, as well as minor abrasions. Additionally, with existing problems, it is effective to use a bay leaf, or rather a decoction from it, which helps to remove problems from the inside.

Decoction with high blood sugar, how to cook?

Ingredients:

  • laurel leaves - 15 pieces;
  • water - 300 ml.

The leaves are thoroughly washed under running water from dust and dirt, placed in a convenient container and filled with cold tap water. The container is placed on a slow fire and boiled for 5 minutes. The broth is poured along with the leaves into a thermos and infused there for 4-5 hours. The benefits of the prepared remedy will show itself when used in small portions throughout the entire decoction. The course of treatment is 3 months, using the drug according to the scheme 1 day intake - 2 days break. After the end of the course, a rest of 30 days is carried out, after which the treatment is repeated again.

The effectiveness of the laurel leaf in diabetes is due to the hypoglycemic property; tincture or decoction is used in therapy. Treatment improves the general condition, normalizes complexion, reduces sweating, characteristic of. The benefits of taking it are visible already in the second month of use.

Such treatment improves the general condition of diabetics, refreshes the complexion, reduces excessive sweating, which is characteristic of the disease.

Recipe for a decoction for allergies in a child

Means for external use, ingredients:

  • laurel leaves - 5 pcs;
  • water - 250 ml.

The leaves are thoroughly washed, placed in an enamel bowl and filled with water. The container is put on fire, the contents are brought to a boil, the fire is reduced as much as possible and the product is left to smolder for another 15-20 minutes. After warming up, the water will evaporate a little, its amount should be exactly 250 ml, so the missing liquid should be added.

The drug is used for allergies in a child as baths, lotions, as well as general wiping of the affected area. Before use, it is worth conducting a reaction test, as some children are prone to allergies. If the child does not have new rashes, the product can be safely used for baths and lotions.

Laurel leaves are used mainly only externally in the form of baths or oils, with diathesis caused by an outbreak of allergies, baths help. The duration of the procedure is 20-25 minutes, the general course lasts 7-4 days until the complete disappearance of pimples. With rhinitis caused by allergies, laurel oil or its decoction is instilled into the nose 1-2 drops 3 times a day. It is better for children to use decoctions, a sufficient dose is 3 tablespoons per day, divided into 2-3 doses. After treatment, there will be no trace of allergies. The benefits are already visible on the second day of use.

How to prepare a remedy for the joints?

The analgesic and antirheumatic properties of the plant make it possible to use its leaves for sore joints. In arthritis, rheumatism, neuralgia, fruit oil and leaf ointment are especially effective, decoctions are used internally. Ingredients:

  • leaves - 30 pieces;
  • water - 1 liter;
  • honey - to taste.

Place the leaves in a small saucepan made of enamel, pour water and put on the stove. Wait for the preparation to boil, leave it on the stove for another 5-8 minutes. During the boil, the saucepan should be open, as essential oils should come out of the herb, which are detrimental to the kidneys. After preparation, the liquid is poured into a thermos and left in it for 3-6 hours. For joints, it is more effective to leave the remedy to infuse for 8-12 hours, which helps to better assimilate it. After tincture, the broth is filtered, the leaves are thrown away. The tool is used for pain in the joints by rubbing it into the affected area.

Additionally, the agent can also be used for oral administration, so an even greater effect will be exerted on the joints. Use the drug throughout the day, and on the second day prepare a new one, add honey to improve the taste. After 3-day therapy, a break is given for 3 weeks and the course is repeated.

Means for inducing menstruation

Delayed menstruation is a problem that interests many women. Of course, you should consult a doctor, but if a woman knows the cause of the disease, then it can be cured with the help of folk remedies. For an independent call for menstruation, it is worth using a decoction of a bay leaf. Ingredients:

  • lavrushka - 10 grams;
  • water - 400 ml;
  • salt - a pinch.

Lavrushka thoroughly wash, put in a saucepan and put it on fire. Boil the product for 5 minutes without a lid. Pour the drug into a jar and wrap with a towel, leave for 5 hours, then cool and use for 2-3 doses in the absence of menstruation. The benefits of operation will be visible on the second day. Allocations may occur on the second or third day of application. If no effectiveness was found, then there will be no menstruation and it is important to go to the doctor.

Contraindications and harm to health when using laurel

Despite the numerous beneficial properties and therapeutic effect, decoctions of laurel are harmful to the body. In particular, it is contraindicated for use in:

  • period of pregnancy;
  • breastfeeding - milk becomes bitter and the child rejects the breast;
  • duodenal ulcer;
  • pancreatitis;
  • constant constipation, while the laurel is harmful, because it further strengthens the feces;
  • cholecystitis, especially in acute form.

The benefits and harms of laurel were known 2-3 centuries ago, at that time people had nothing to choose from and turned a blind eye to harm, taking into account only useful and medicinal properties.

Medicinal properties and contraindications of bay leaf - this is our topic for today. We will also tell about its use in traditional medicine recipes, bay leaf treatment.

Bay leaf is better known to everyone as a seasoning for a huge number of dishes. But its value is also in a large number of useful components. It contains various vitamins of group B, as well as C, PP, valuable trace elements.

Laurel noble- an ancient plant, until some time sacred, with a rich history and shrouded in numerous beliefs. Who does not know the laurel wreaths crowning the winner since ancient Greece? BUT laureates various awards, the titles of which came precisely from our now modest lavrushka?

Myths, legends, protection from magic, a means to have a prophetic dream - what else did they admire and what amazingly useful properties were attributed to the bay leaf of great-grandfathers ...

Medicinal properties of bay leaf

The following beneficial properties of bay leaf are most widely known:

  • natural antibiotic.

It contains phytoncides in large quantities, which have an antibacterial effect. Laurel is not inferior to coniferous trees in this. Therefore, it is relevant for people suffering from respiratory diseases. In addition, unlike him, no allergic reactions were noticed. It is also recommended for the prevention and treatment of tuberculosis.

He is unpretentious in care.

  • Antiseptic and its anti-inflammatory action.

Bay leaves contain a significant amount of tannins. This explains their antiseptic effect and relief of the inflammatory response.

Bay leaf decoction

So, for young children, bathing in water with a small amount of bay leaf decoction is recommended for prickly heat, skin manifestations of diaper dermatitis, and other pathological skin manifestations.

However, along with its useful properties, it has a drying effect. Therefore, if the skin has excessive dryness, then the decoction should not be strong, or along with washing with bay decoction, it is worth using a moisturizer.

The anti-inflammatory effect of bay leaf is also relevant in the treatment of arthritis. It relieves inflammation, relieves pain, swelling.

Bay leaf is used, due to its antiseptic, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, in diseases of the oral cavity. A decoction of it is recommended for stomatitis,.

In addition, it stops bleeding gums, heals small wounds, ulcerative defects.

  • Strengthening of immune properties.

Due to its vitamin composition, it contributes.

  • The antispasmodic properties of the plant relieve pain in the intestines.
  • It is worthwhile to include soups, borscht with bay leaves in your diet more often, or even drink a decoction of its courses for hypertensive patients, since the product is able to reduce blood pressure.
  • It is also recommended for diabetics as it lowers blood glucose levels. To do this, laurel powder, ground on a coffee grinder, is taken three times a day at the tip of a knife.
  • Pillows with dried leaves perfectly aromatize the air in the bedroom, promote healthy sleep, fast falling asleep and relaxation.


Bay leaf in folk medicine - how to drink, use in recipes

  • For strengthening immunity.

You need to take 15 leaves of laurel in 1.5 glasses of water. Put the container with them on the fire and cook, stirring for 5 minutes. Then remove from heat and pour the broth into a thermos. Leave it for 4 hours. You can leave it to infuse in a container, wrapping it warm. Then you need to strain.

  • The same decoction is used for cleansing, bay leaf removes waste and toxins from the body.

Bay leaf treatment of joints - cleansing, cleansing

Widely known joint cleaning with bay leaf. Only it must be done after cleansing the intestines and liver, otherwise, when the joints are cleansed, too many toxins can be released into the blood at once and it will be difficult for the body to cope with them.

Over the years of an improper lifestyle, the joints become inactive, salts are deposited in them, and cleaning really helps to look younger and begin to move more actively and painlessly.

During the procedure, a vegetarian diet is desirable, at least you will definitely have to do without classic protein products - meat, eggs, milk.

The cleansing course is not very long - only three days, you need to drink a decoction of 2 tablespoons every half hour. (in the evening, brew a dozen medium-sized leaves with 250 ml of boiling water, hold on a quiet fire for 5 minutes, let it brew in a thermos overnight).

After 2 months, you can repeat if the condition of the joints and bones is close to depressing, if everything is more or less, cleaning is repeated once a year.

In addition to cleansing the joints after the use of this remedy, the condition of the vessels also improves, the metabolism is activated.

There is another video recipe for cleansing joints and bones with a bay leaf with slightly different proportions:

  • At arthritis, rheumatism, gout.

It is recommended to prepare a decoction of bay leaves according to the recipe described above and drink it all in a day in small sips. It is not recommended to categorically drink the entire volume in one gulp. Drink also 3-4 days. Then take a break for a week.

Bay leaf tincture

Bay leaf tincture is used for and even throat cancer.

You need to chop the bay leaves. It should be a full glass. Pour into another glass container and pour half a liter of vodka. The mixture should be infused in a dark place for half a month. Use the remedy 30 minutes before meals, one spoonful three times a day.

  • From teenagers and others skin problems (acne, age spots). 25 sheets should be boiled for 5 minutes in half a glass of water. Then insist in a thermos for about 5 hours, or leave it warmly wrapped up overnight. The resulting product is used as a lotion for rubbing the skin to narrow pores, even out skin tone, and disappear pigmentation.

If a person possesses, then adding a spoonful of vodka to the solution will help. Thus, the bay leaf is valuable both as a culinary supplement and as a medicine.

What else is bay leaf useful for?

If you regularly wash your hair with bay decoction (30 g of leaves per liter of water), then it promotes more thickness and shine, relieves dandruff, helps with seborrhea.

  • Foot baths with a decoction of lavrushka will relieve sweating feet.
  • Oil with laurel extract (1 tablespoon of leaves is poured into 200 ml of olive oil and infused for 2 weeks) will help with exacerbations of osteochondrosis. They rub painful places for the coming sleep.
  • A mild diuretic effect has been noted.
  • Inhalations are also done with this remedy, essential oils actively evaporate and help with coughing (expectorant properties), runny nose, even “pierce” the nose with. A couple of leaves are enough for a liter of floating liquid.

The smell of lavrushka scares away cockroaches, does not allow moths to live freely.

The benefits of bay leaf for the human body are wide and varied, but let's talk about the potential harm of this plant.

Bay leaf contraindications

Not everyone is suitable for bay leaf treatment - it also has contraindications.

  • Large doses may lead to poisoning;
  • bay leaf tincture thoroughly strengthens, you need to keep this in mind for hemorrhoids, poor digestion (chronic constipation, "lazy intestines");
  • pregnant women should not be treated with lavrushka (it can provoke unnecessary uterine activity and, accordingly, miscarriage) and small children;
  • with caution it is worth approaching this type of treatment for problems with metabolism, stomach ulcers and 12 duodenal ulcers;
  • with exacerbations of diseases of the liver, heart and kidneys.

Selection and storage

The shelf life of the bay leaf is 2 years, after which the aroma is no longer the same, and bitterness appears when used internally. Naturally, it must be stored in a hermetically sealed container, like all products saturated with aromatic oils.

I do not advise buying in opaque packages - since I already threw out a pack with fragments of yellow twisted leaves covered with black dots. It’s really better to buy a bunch - a broom in the season on the market, while it is fresh and fragrant, and dry it yourself at home.

In the modern world, the medicinal properties of the bay leaf have been somewhat forgotten, supplanted by the use only as a flavoring spice. But folk healers remember the medicinal properties of the plant, who actively use the leaves on their own, introduce them into the composition of medicinal preparations.

plant description

In its homeland - in the Mediterranean and Asia Minor - noble laurel grows among other evergreens. This grouping is called "Maquis". It is characteristic of a tropical climate. The heat-loving plant grows well in Spain, Italy, France, Portugal. It is actively cultivated on the territory of the Crimean peninsula.

Unpretentious to the composition of the soil, noble laurel can grow in the mountain steppe, on rocky and sandy slopes. The main condition for normal vegetation is the constancy of temperature and the absence of severe frosts. At temperatures below 12 ° C, the plant dies.

Morphological features

Laurel noble belongs to the evergreen perennials. Depending on the conditions, a shrub or a tree is formed, the height of which sometimes reaches 15 meters.

  • Roots. The root system is well developed, but lies shallow in the soil, which causes the plant to be unstable to severe frosts.
  • Run away. Covered with a brown, smooth bark, laurel shoots stretch upwards, developing especially well in areas flooded with sunlight. Strong branching forms a dense pyramidal crown.
  • Leaves. Densely arranged on the branches of the crown alternately. The elliptical leaf plate can reach a length of about 20 cm. The width is up to 4 cm. The edge of the plate is solid, the surface is leathery, very smooth, glossy. The green tint on top of the leaf plate is several tones darker than the color of the underside. The plate tapers towards the base. Attaches to the branch with a short petiole.
  • flowers. Small, up to 1 cm in diameter, collected from six pieces in small umbrellas. Several umbels are collected in the axils of the leaves at the ends of the branches. Before flowering, the umbrellas are covered with several dry scales, which fall off when the flowers open. The color of the corollas is white-green, with a yellowish tint.
  • Fruit. The drupes are black or dark purple in color, reaching 2 cm long, have a round or oval shape. Large seed inside.

It was the laurel fruits that were attributed the most active pharmacological properties in the first edition of the pharmacopoeia. At that time, drupes were called beans, and the ointment prepared from them was called bean.

Procurement process

The main medicinal raw material of the noble laurel is its leaves. Due to the content of a large amount of essential oil, fresh foliage is partially processed. The same is done with freshly picked laurel fruits. The leaves look like this:

  • Collection. It begins at the moment of flowering of the first inflorescences on the plant. As a rule, it is early spring. Only good, sunny weather is suitable for harvesting, so that there are no dew drops or moisture from the air on the foliage. Often, leaves are collected along with young branches. It is these leaves that contain the largest amount of valuable essential oil.
  • Training. Raw materials are sorted for spoiled or damaged leaves. Check the moisture content.
  • Drying. Lay out in dense shade, with good ventilation. When using devices, a low-temperature regime is observed to maintain the concentration of oil. To dry the bay leaf yourself, you can hang young branches on an outstretched twine.
  • Storage. After complete drying, the leaves are collected in an airtight container made of glass or cellophane. Keep the bay leaf in a dark place, in the absence of moisture.

The crushed leaves are processed by the distillation method to obtain an essential oil. The use of high-tech devices makes it possible to obtain an extract from the leaves that retains all the beneficial properties of fresh raw materials. Laurel fruits are harvested in autumn. They are used fresh, harvested for future use by freezing. Under industrial conditions, fatty oil is obtained from fruits, which is a thick granular substance with a characteristic odor.

Medicinal properties of bay leaf

The benefit of bay leaf is the content of a particularly valuable essential oil. Its volatile components have bactericidal, astringent, regenerating properties, have a sedative effect on the nervous system, and stimulate the cardiovascular system. Multicomponent essential oil of noble laurel contains:

  • limonene;
  • camphene;
  • cineole;
  • pinene;
  • geraniol;
  • myrcene;
  • cadinene;
  • sabinene.

Organic acids contained in the leaves (valeric, caproic, acetic) are able to stimulate the production of bile, urine, have anti-inflammatory, immunostimulating and vasoprotective properties. Phytoncides and flavonoids provide the antitumor effect of laurel, as well as its ability to improve the condition of blood vessels.

Fatty oil extracted from the fruits of laurel is an excellent source of polyunsaturated fatty acids, which comprehensively improve the functioning of the body, reduce blood sugar and cholesterol levels. Bitterness and resins help to improve appetite and activate the production of digestive juices.

The vitamin composition of laurel is as follows: vitamins C, A, K, PP, E.

Also, the main macro- and microelements were found in the laurel: potassium, calcium, zinc, selenium, copper, iron, phosphorus, magnesium. The rich chemical composition determines the characteristic taste of the plant, high rates of its nutritional value.

Pharmacological effects

Laurel noble has many therapeutic properties that are actively used in folk medicine. Use fresh and dried foliage of the plant, as well as oils and extracts extracted from leaves and fruits. Due to the low cost, treatment with laurel leaves has the maximum distribution. Indications for use include the following ailments:

An essential oil extracted from laurel has a no less long list of medicinal properties. They disinfect the air indoors, where there are patients with severe infectious diseases. With laurel oil, inhalations are done for bronchitis and pneumonia in order to eliminate coughing fits. Ingestion helps eliminate inflammation of the mucosa of the gastrointestinal tract (GIT), normalize stool and bile flow. External use allows you to get rid of scabies, eczema, psoriasis, seborrheic dermatitis. Laurel oil is dissolved diluted with water intended for washing festering wounds. Essential oil rubs are used for joints, body aches, muscle and vascular spasms.

Fatty oil has tremendous anti-inflammatory and regenerating properties. It is recommended to use it instead of cocoa butter - for the preparation of candles for hemorrhoids. Laurel oil will complement the action of medicines with its own healing properties. Fatty oil ointments help heal wounds, eliminate the symptoms of arthritis, and completely heal varicose veins of the lower extremities. Fatty oil from fruits leads to the cleansing of the body from toxins, radionuclides, provides effective cleaning of blood vessels. Taking it internally helps treat and prevent:

  • atherosclerosis;
  • complications in diabetes mellitus;
  • peptic ulcer;
  • nervous disorders;
  • obesity;
  • hormonal disruptions.

Traditional medicine uses laurel to provoke an abortion. Today, laurel is recommended for girls suffering from regular delays in menstruation, as well as infertility, provoked by hormonal disruptions. Some folk healers successfully treat alcoholism with the help of bay leaves.

Recipes

Laurel treatment is easy to carry out right at home, because ready-to-eat dried leaves are sold in the nearest store and are available to people with any income level. Before treatment, you need to learn some rules.

  • Who can't. Bay leaf contraindications include individual sensitivity. If you are allergic to a plant, even external use is prohibited.
  • Side effect. Among the side effects is a diuretic, so people with large kidney stones should not be treated with laurel.
  • Timing of therapy is important. The harm of the plant can manifest itself when it accumulates, so the use of fragrant raw materials should be moderate, it is important to take a break every two weeks of treatment.

Oil

Peculiarities. It is used to treat colds, respiratory diseases, as well as articular ailments. Helps improve the functioning of the stomach and gallbladder.

Preparation and application

  1. 30 g of crushed dried laurel leaves are poured into a glass of high-quality olive oil.
  2. The mixture is placed in a dark place for a week, the container is shaken regularly.
  3. Use a teaspoon of oil three times a day before meals.

Decoction

Peculiarities. A decoction of bay leaf at home is used to treat colds, strengthen immunity. They can also wash your face to get rid of acne. The use of bay leaf for hair can also be carried out according to this recipe - the decoction will strengthen the roots, improve the structure of the hair along the entire length.

Preparation and application

  1. A handful of bay leaves is poured with half a liter of boiling water.
  2. The container with the mixture is put on a slow fire, brought to a boil. Boil for five minutes.
  3. After the specified time, remove the decoction, insist it for four hours.
  4. After straining, use the remedy up to six times a day for a tablespoon or use it externally.

Ointment

Peculiarities. According to reviews, this ointment does an excellent job with scabies, boils, eczema and psoriasis, as well as inflammatory diseases of the muscles and joints.

Preparation and application

  1. Powder of bay leaves (6 g) is mixed with 1 g of powdered juniper needles.
  2. Add 12 g of butter to the vegetable mixture, mix until smooth.
  3. Apply ointment under the bandage several times a day.

Slimming Tea

Peculiarities. Laurel stimulates metabolic processes, so the leaves in any form are used to make slimming drinks. It is best to brew bay leaf for weight loss along with cinnamon.

Preparation and application

  1. Five dried bay leaves and a cinnamon stick are placed in a standard tea cup.
  2. Pour the mixture with a glass of boiling water, insist 15 minutes.
  3. Drink three cups per day: on an empty stomach in the morning, after breakfast, and also at night.

Tincture

Peculiarities. The recipe for tincture of bay leaves involves the use of fresh raw materials. The prepared remedy is used to treat such serious ailments as atherosclerosis, oncological diseases of various localization.

Preparation and application

  1. Two glasses of fresh bay leaf are passed through a meat grinder several times.
  2. The resulting substance is poured with a liter of pure vodka.
  3. Place the container with the mixture for two weeks in a dark place, shake it daily.
  4. After straining, the tincture is taken three times a day for a tablespoon.

Dried bay leaf in folk medicine is used after simple steaming in boiling water:

  • from a headache- apply on the forehead and temples;
  • from cough - they are wound up at night instead of mustard plasters;
  • from pain - make a compress from steamed leaves for the night;
  • for wound healing- wind the leaves under the bandage.

The healing properties of the bay leaf are transferred to the essential oil, which is sold in pharmacies in the public domain. It can be used neat and added to neutral base oils.

Bay leaf treatment will help get rid of many ailments, will provide effective prevention of diseases of the blood, immunity, joints, colds and flu. Timely use of bay leaf as a prophylactic will prolong health for many years.

Bay leaf is a well-known spice that is easy to find in the kitchen of any housewife. But, oddly enough, the bay leaf has found its application in cosmetology and in traditional medicine. With the help of decoctions, tinctures, masks, lotions prepared on the basis of bay leaves, they can cure many diseases, as well as get rid of cosmetic problems.

A decoction based on bay leaf is a widely used remedy throughout the world. After all, the leaves contain many useful substances: trace elements, bitterness, organic acids, essential oil, etc.

In the preparation of a decoction, you can use both fresh bay leaves and dried leaves, which are sold in any store in the grocery department or on market layouts.

Useful properties of the decoction

A decoction of a leaf of a bay tree is useful for multiple qualities: diuretic, sedative, antifungal, analgesic, decongestant, antiviral, and many others.

A decoction of bay leaves is popularly used mainly as a means to strengthen and enhance the immune system (immunity), as well as to restore the body after viral diseases.

  • Deposited salts in the body.
  • Heavy metals.
  • Disease of the joints.
  • Purulent wounds (it is proved that a decoction of bay leaves is a good and powerful antiseptic).
  • Colds / viral diseases.
  • Elevated BP.
  • Fungal diseases of the skin.
  • Stomatitis, inflammation of the gums and sore throat.
  • Bruises and severe bruises.
  • Otitis.
  • Allergy.
  • Hemorrhoids etc.

The use of a decoction of bay leaves in folk medicine

Against joint pain. Grind ten grams of bay leaves with a knife, pour boiling water and boil for three minutes. Strain the decoction through a sieve and leave to cool. The decoction should be taken once a day. The term of application is three days.

We clean the joints with a decoction. Thirty grams of a leaf, chop with a knife, pour one and a half glasses of water at room temperature. Bring to a boil and leave to boil for another five minutes. Pour the boiled broth into a thermos and leave to infuse for 6 hours, then strain. The decoction must be taken within 12 hours in small portions every twenty minutes. When taking a decoction, it is recommended to eat more vegetables. The term of application is three days. The course can be repeated after one week if desired.

To boost immunity, in the fight against colds and flu. For one and a half liters of water you need 15 leaves of laurel. Mix everything in a saucepan and boil for five minutes. Leave the mixture to infuse (preferably in a thermos) for four hours. Then strain. Method of application - a tablespoon 2 times a day.

Against sinusitis. For a decoction, you need 30 grams of chopped leaves and one and a half glasses of water. Before going to bed, a decoction, moisten a cloth or gauze in a hot decoction and apply to the bridge of the nose and on the forehead.

Decoction based on laurel leaves against allergies. Fifteen bay leaves in two glasses of water. Pour laurel with water and boil for three minutes, then leave the broth to infuse in a thermos and strain. Method of application - 10 drops per day.

With otitis media. Dip five bay leaves in a glass of boiling water and bring to a boil again. Leave to brew for 2 hours. Using a pipette 2 or 3 times a day, instill a sore ear. In addition, it is necessary to drink a decoction 3-5 times a day according to Art. spoon.

For stress relief. To do this, we need to put washed bay leaves (15 pieces) in a thermos and pour boiled water (0.5 liters). Leave to infuse for three hours. You need to take a decoction half an hour before a meal, three tablespoons. The course of treatment is three days. This course will help get rid of not only stress, but also to tone the body, cleanse it of toxins.

Decoction against skin diseases and poured out in children. Ten laurel leaves pour 1 liter of water, boil and keep on the stove for another 5 minutes. Then add the decoction to the water for bathing the child and bathe the child in this water.

Decoction for diabetes. Fifteen leaves of bay tree pour one and a half glasses of boiled water, keep on fire for another 5 minutes and remove. Leave to infuse for 4 hours in a warm place. Then you need to drink the decoction in small portions on the same day. Drink the decoction for no more than three days. If desired, you can repeat after a few weeks.

Against diseases of the urinary system. Prepare a decoction of laurel (30 sheets, 300 ml of water). Take sitz baths in decoction every day before going to bed.

Against sweaty feet. Prepare a decoction with thirty laurel leaves and a glass of water. Leave to infuse for three hours. Before going to bed, do foot baths for 10 minutes.

For diseases of the gastrointestinal tract. For 4 grams of crushed laurel leaves, bring half a glass of water to a boil and simmer for 10 minutes over low heat. Then let it cool and take two glasses of decoction a day, dividing the doses into small portions.

To boost immunity. For these purposes, it is worth preparing a decoction of 10 leaves per 1 liter of boiled water. Put the leaves in a thermos and pour boiling water, leave to infuse for three hours. Then strain, discard the leaves. The decoction should be taken after meals three times a day, 50 ml each. The course of treatment is a week.

Before using a decoction to treat a particular ailment, you should consult a doctor / specialist who can help you choose the right course of treatment.

Laurel decoction for face and hair

Despite the fact that in most cases a decoction of bay leaves is taken for various diseases, it is also useful for cosmetic purposes. With the help of a decoction of laurel, you can save your face from inflammation, and also help get rid of annoying dandruff in your hair.

From inflammation. Boil a decoction of 25 leaves and a glass of water, leave on low heat for five minutes, then remove. Pour the broth into a thermos and leave for 4 hours. Strain it and wipe your face with it every day. The skin will become light, all inflammation will be removed.

For dandruff hair. This decoction will also help remove oiliness on the hair, give them a healthy shine and elasticity. Prepare a decoction with 30 leaves and a liter of water. It is necessary to rinse the hair with the prepared broth after each procedure (washing the head).

Contraindications for use

In order to avoid complications, exacerbations and side effects, it is forbidden to take a decoction when:

  • Inflammation of the pancreas (pancreatitis).
  • Frequent constipation.
  • cholecystitis.
  • Gastric ulcer.
  • Ulcer of the duodenum.
  • Pregnancy (decoction can cause premature birth, miscarriage).
  • Kidney and liver disease.
  • Renal failure.
  • Violation of protein metabolism.

A decoction is contraindicated for people with diabetes, children under 12 years old, allergy sufferers (bay leaf is considered an allergic product).

Since the bay leaf is considered an allergic and poisonous plant, when using it, you must always follow the dosage in the recipes. The dosage is respected not only for medical purposes, but in the kitchen as well.

In the treatment of diseases of the musculoskeletal system, herbalists actively use natural remedies. One of the available components in traditional medicine recipes is bay leaf. For joints, a natural product is also useful, as is Golden Mustache tincture and homemade ointment with comfrey.

How does bay leaf decoction work? What compositions with fragrant raw materials are most effective in the treatment of gout, arthrosis, salt deposition? Many readers will benefit from the advice of phytotherapists, proven recipes for herbal remedies based on laurel leaves.

Composition and benefits

The healing properties of natural raw materials have been known since ancient times. Laurel leaves were often used by doctors from different countries for the manufacture of medicinal products: infusion, oil, decoction, alcohol tincture.

Aromatic raw materials have a rich set of active ingredients:

  • acids: butyric, formic, lauric;
  • carbohydrates, proteins, ash substances, fats;
  • vitamin C, groups B, A;
  • minerals: calcium, magnesium, potassium, phosphorus, copper, iron, zinc, selenium;
  • essential oil with aromatic components: cineol, limonene, camphor, linalool, and other substances.

Useful effect and medicinal properties of bay leaf:

  • bay leaf is a natural antiseptic. The decoction reduces the negative effect of infection on cartilage tissue, synovial fluid, has bactericidal properties;
  • decoction, oil and vodka tincture have an analgesic effect. With articular rheumatism, gout attacks, the healing agent reduces tissue swelling, reduces discomfort in the affected joints;
  • regular intake of decoction destroys dense deposits in the joints, accelerates the excretion of uric acid salts;
  • after a course with a decoction of laurel leaves, the level of sugar in the blood decreases, the negative symptoms of diabetes mellitus weaken;
  • laurel oil is an ideal composition for massage with rheumatism, neuralgia, joint pain, myalgia.

Indications for use

On the basis of laurel leaves, phytotherapists prepare a decoction, tincture, and healing oil. Home formulations with active properties are used in the treatment of many diseases of the joints and spine.

  • neuralgia;

Phytopreparations with fragrant bay leaves improve the condition of patients with mild diabetes, pulmonary diseases, dysentery, bad breath against the background of stomatitis, gingivitis. Traditional healers recommend tincture with lovage and bay leaf for the treatment of alcohol addiction. The natural remedy has an anti-cancer effect, relieves inflammation of the sinuses with sinusitis, improves skin and hair health, and reduces sweating of the feet.

Contraindications

The rich chemical composition, a high percentage of essential oils explains the active influence of herbal remedies on the body. Not all patients are allowed to take a decoction inside, home remedies for external use have few restrictions (irritating components do not enter the intestines and stomach).

The negative effect of laurel leaves was noted when using a decoction in the presence of the following diseases and conditions:

  • ulcerative lesions of the stomach, intestines;
  • pregnancy, lactation;
  • allergic reactions for essential oils;
  • tendency to constipation, intestinal obstruction;
  • severe form of diabetes;
  • acute and chronic hepatic pathologies.

Warning! A decoction of high concentration too actively affects the delicate mucous membranes, turns into poison. If the dosage indicated in the recipe is “3 bay leaves per 100 ml of water”, you can not put 4 or 5 leaves “to enhance the effect”: the product can harm.

Treatment of joints with bay leaf: effective recipes

In the absence of contraindications, phytotherapists recommend taking short courses of prevention 2-3 times a year using a decoction of noble laurel leaves. Regardless of the state of health, consultation with a specialist is required.

The use of herbal remedies should be allowed by the attending physician (arthrologist, orthopedic traumatologist or rheumatologist) or therapist, if there are no serious health problems. Bay leaf is useful for joints in 30, 40, 50-70 years and later. The older the person, the more carefully you need to check if there are any restrictions for external and, especially, internal use.

Salt control

Ingredients:

  • leaves of noble laurel - 25 pieces;
  • cold water - 0.35 l.

Preparation and application:

  • pour vegetable raw materials with liquid, put on fire, boil, hold on high heat without a lid for no more than five minutes;
  • remove the pan from the stove, cover with a lid, wrap with an old coat or blanket, leave for 4 hours;
  • after the time has elapsed, strain the prepared decoction of bay leaf for the joints;
  • the patient should drink the remaining liquid in small sips within 12 hours. The best option: every hour - from two to four sips;
  • therapy lasts 3 days. It is impossible to exceed the duration of the course: the decoction has a high concentration of active components;
  • you can repeat the cleansing of the joints after three weeks, not earlier. For a year, phytotherapeutists advise taking two treatment and prophylactic courses.

Important! During therapy, vegetable food is obligatory: meat, milk, eggs create an additional burden on the liver, gastrointestinal tract, and interfere with the cleansing of the body. You can not drink all types of alcohol.

Recipe for joint pain

What do you need:

  • dried or fresh laurel leaves - 10 pieces (medium size);
  • lime, buckwheat or acacia honey - 3 tablespoons;
  • water - 750 ml.

Cooking method:

  • boil water in an enameled container, put fragrant leaves, turn off the gas, cover the pot or bowl with a lid;
  • the duration of exposure of the infusion - 3 hours;
  • open the container, remove the leaves, strain the product, be sure to add honey to taste and enhance the beneficial properties;
  • application rules: three times a day, 125 ml. You can’t drink the infusion more often, it’s also forbidden to increase the volume of the healing liquid;
  • the course of treatment is 3 days, after two weeks the therapy is repeated;
  • at the end of treatment, pain of moderate intensity will become weaker or go away altogether if the decoction is combined with other methods of treating articular pathologies.

Cartilage repair: bay leaf plus gelatin

Components:

  • food gelatin - a teaspoon;
  • ground eggshell - the same amount;
  • silicon water - 250 ml.

Cooking method:

  • release the protein and yolk, wash the shell thoroughly from all sides, remove the film, rinse well from the inside, dry, grind to a powder state;
  • every day for a month, mix gelatin and egg powder, drink water;
  • the second month, the procedure is carried out in a day;
  • the combined agent strengthens cartilage, saturates bones with minerals, prevents demineralization of bone tissue.

Laurel oil for joint pain

What do you need:

  • ground laurel leaves - 30 g;
  • any high quality vegetable oil - 200 ml.

Learn about the benefits and rules of use for joint pain.

Read the page for general rules and useful tips for recovering from a fracture of the radius.

Go to the address and read information about the symptoms and treatment of deforming dorsopathy of the lumbar spine.

Preparation and application:

  • heat the oily liquid, pour in fragrant vegetable raw materials, pour into a jar, cover with a lid;
  • clean the prepared product in a warm room (light should not fall on the container with the “semi-finished product”);
  • after 14 days, get laurel oil, filter it, use it as part of a complex therapy for arthrosis, gout, with soreness in the joints and muscles, and neuralgia.

No time to wait until the healing agent is infused? Another cooking method is suitable: keep the oil with leaves over low heat, after placing the container in a “water bath”. Express method takes only 1 hour. Use the composition in the same way as the oil prepared according to the traditional recipe.

Tincture for the treatment of rheumatism

Ingredients:

  • high-quality vodka - 0.5 l;
  • ground bay leaf, lilac flowers plus chopped willow bark - a tablespoon each.

How to proceed:

  • in a jar, combine herbal ingredients, pour a strong product, shake;
  • Place the container in a cool room for 2 weeks. The jar should be in a closet so that the light does not fall on it;
  • after 14 days, you can rub the diseased joints with a healing tincture. Before use, be sure to filter the liquid, pour into a clean container (store in a cool place);
  • with soreness, rub problem joints daily. The tool helps with mild to moderate pain, reduces tissue swelling. The procedure can be carried out before going to bed.
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