TRADITIONAL USES (INTERNAL)

• Soothes headaches and migraines.
• It has insecticidal properties
• Are effective for treatment of high blood sugar, migraine headaches, bacterial and fungal infections, and gastric ulcers
• Relieves stomach ulcers
• It also has astringent, carminative, diaphoretic, digestive, diuretic, emetic and stomachic properties.
• Bay leaf has also been shown to help the body process insulin
• Bay leaf is also an anti-fungal and anti-bacterial, and has also been used to treat rheumatism, amenorrhea, and colic and it has anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties

TRADITIONAL USES (EXTERNAL)

• Crushed leaves can be put onto burns and bruises to speed up healing.
• Tie a bunch of Bay leaves under your hot water tap to ease muscular pain and rheumatism

AS A TEA

Infusion: 1-2 teaspoons of crushed leaves in 250ml boiling water. Stand for 10-15 minutes. Strain. Drink 1-2 cups per day.

OTHER USES

Can be used in soups, stews or any other culinary uses.

Also poultice for tumors, swellings and bruises.

WARNINGS

• You should always consult a naturopath or medical practitioner before use
• There are toxic plants that are visually very similar to bay leaves, so make sure you’ve got the real bay leaves which are 100% non toxic. Overall, bay leaf has very few adverse effects, and is likely safe when consumed in amounts used in foods. However, it may cause contact dermatitis and occupational asthma. Bay leaves may become lodged in the gastrointestinal tract, causing tears or blockages. These impacted leaves may also obstruct breathing. Do not use during pregnancy or breastfeeding.