What Happens To Your Body If You Burn A Bay Leaf: Not Just For Flavoring Soups

We all know what a bay leaf is; we use their spicy, woodsy flavors in soups, stews, and brines. But did you know that, in addition to its culinary uses, bay leaf is an herb with numerous beneficial medical characteristics?

Herbal medicines use them by boiling, powdering, or soaking them in alcohol or oil. But unlike other herbs, bay leaves can also be burned to release their powerful effects.

Burning bay leavesPhoto byRichelleg

Greek mythology mentions the humble bay leaf, believe it or not. Apollo used to inshale smoke from bay leaves in order to elicit prophetic visions. As a result, it evolved to represent protection, knowledge, and harmony that we see in Roman culture even today.

Its smoke is believed to strengthen the immune system and alleviate exhaustion, tension, and anxiety.

There is also talk about the spiritual healing benefits of burning bay leaves. Like incense and smudge sticks, it is frequently used for spiritual ceremonies at places of worship.

Bay leaf teaPhoto byRichelleg

Bay leaf may be used to treat the following ailments:

• Depression
• Anxiety
• Lung and breathing issues
• Lack of sleep
• Exhaustion
• Nausea
• Stomach issues

What Happens When Bay Leaves Are Burned?

Linalool is released by burning bay leaves into smoke; it's part of the smell. Other plants, like mint and lavender, also contain linalool. Nevertheless, the aroma that bay leaf releases has the potential to be both relaxing and hallucinogenic.

It is thought that the smoke from the bay leaf shields the person from harmful energies , modifies mental states to bring serenity and tranquility, and elevates mood and enhances wellbeing.

There are a plethora of fascinating applications for bay leaf smoke in medicine. The most popular method is to finely grind the leaves and then sprinkle them over a candle flame.

A nice perfume will permeate the space as the smoke from the burning leaves rises. You can also just light one on fire.

Palo Santo and bay leafPhoto byRichelleg

However, before you begin, note the following safety advice:

• Use a fireproof bowl, such as a ceramic dish or ashtray.
• When burning bay leaves, they should be dried rather than used fresh.
• Light them like an insense, light the tip, then blow out the flame to let it smolder.
• After it's burned, completely extinguish the burning leaves and make sure they are not left unattended. Keep them out of the reach of kids and animals.

Benefits of Bay Leaf Burning

Calming

Burning bay leaves can help reduce anxiety and exhaustion because of its relaxing effects.

Clears mucus

A tonic for upper respiratory conditions, bay leaf also eases dry coughs and blocked noses, like it's cousin mullein.

**However, not everyone may benefit from this DIY cure. Avoid breathing in bay leaves if you have asthma or are sensitive to smoke since it could aggravate your respiratory system.

If you have respiratory issues, you can steam the bay leaves to get the same effect. Just throw them in a pot of boiling water, and carefully inhale the steam.

Bay leaf burningPhoto byRichelleg

Decreased inflammatory response

Eugenol, also in bay leaves, is activated when a leaf burns and generates smoke. It helps to lessen inflammation in the body because of its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory qualities. The bay leaf's eugenol is especially helpful in reducing arthritic and joint discomfort.

Cleans negative energy

Negative energy from the outside world and your own mind drains your body and mind. Even though negative energy is unavoidable, you can avoid pain for yourself and your house by burning dried bay leaves.

The best way I do this is to write down whatever it is that's ailing you, bothering you, or making you feel icky. Write it right on the leaf, then light it on fire. Watch it burn slowly, releasing all that negative crud from you with it's healing smoke. Imagine those things going with it.

Nausea

Bay leaf constituents alleviate nausea by calming upset stomachs. It may also have relaxing effects by reducing physical tension.

Extra Applications for Bay Leaves

It can tread gastrointestinal distress and even painful gas. It also works well for treating skin issues like acne and dandruff.

Unclog Acne

The potent antibacterial properties of bay leaves help to both treat and prevent acne breakouts. Boil dried bay leaves in water for five to ten minutes to treat acne. For a week, apply the mixture twice a day to the afflicted area.

More than just flavorPhoto byRichelleg

Eliminate Dandruff

A great rinse to encourage healthier, shinier hair is bay leaf water. Strong ingredients stimulate the scalp to control excessive hair loss. Since it has antifungal properties, it is also the best treatment for dandruff. Mix bay leaves with water and apply to the scalp after shampooing to get rid of dandruff and promote healthier hair.

Indigestion and flatulence

The carminative properties of bay leaf are helpful for a variety of digestive issues, including indigestion and gas. This herb works wonders for heartburn and acid reflux.

Photo byRichelleg

Combine bay leaves with ginger to enhance their digestive and stomachic qualities. Ginger stimulates the secretion of digestive fluids, which aids in the proper digestion of food.

To two cups of water, add a piece of ginger and approximately five dried bay leaves. Boil until the liquid is reduced to around 25%. For immediate relief, add honey to taste and drink a glass.

Burning a bay leafPhoto byRichelleg

Injuries

Fresh bay leaf poultice is a traditional remedy for small cuts and rashes. Its potent antibacterial and astringent qualities aid in the quick healing of wounds while preventing infection. Simply grind some clean bay leaves, mix with a little filtered water, and apply them to the area. Reapply the poultice two to three times each day. Great for rashes too.

Conclusion

Regarded as a sacred herb, bay laurel is frequently utilized in ceremonies, rituals, and meditations, as well as herbal medicine. Let me know in the comments below if you've ever used bay leaf for more than a stew!

Fresh leavesPhoto byRichelleg

Citations:

BAY LEAF: Overview, Uses, Side Effects, Precautions, Interactions, Dosing and Reviews. (n.d.). https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-685/bay-leaf

5 Possible Uses for the Bay Leaf. (2021, September 16). Healthline. https://www.healthline.com/health/5-possible-uses-for-bay-leaf