Bay leaf: uses, side effects, interactions

Benefits

What are bay leaves for?

Bay leaf is an herbal plant that is often used as a seasoning for cooking because it has a distinctive aroma. Apparently, the benefits of bay leaves do not stop there. Apart from being used as a food flavoring, the leaves and oil are also useful as medicine.

Various health benefits of bay leaves include treating rheumatism, ulcers, late menstruation, stomach aches, conditioning ingredients and cockroach control. Bay leaves can also be used as a “rubefacient” ointment, a warming agent that improves blood circulation to the skin. The fruit of this plant can also be used to treat uterine fibroids, cirrhosis and joint pain.

Another benefit of bay leaves is to lower blood sugar. The content of polyphenols - a kind of antioxidant in the leaf extract, is believed by researchers to reduce blood sugar levels for people who have diabetes. This substance is also able to increase levels of good cholesterol in the blood, thereby preventing complications of heart disease that often attack patients with diabetes.

How does it work?

There haven't been many studies on how this herbal supplement works. Consult an herbalist or doctor for more information. However, several studies have shown that the content of bay leaves can be useful for:

• Relieves ulcers
• Reducing sugar levels
• Against bacteria and fungi

Dose

The information provided below is not a substitute for medical recommendations. Always consult your herbalist or doctor before taking this medicine.

What is the dosage of bay leaf for adults?

Ask your doctor for advice on the right dosage if you want to consume bay leaves. If used as an external medicine, please use as much as desired.

The dosage of herbal plants can be different for each patient. The dosage used varies depending on age, health and several other conditions. Herbal supplements are not always safe to use. Consult a herbalist or doctor to get the correct dosage.

In what forms are bay leaves available?

This herbal plant is available in the form of:

• Fresh leaves
• Fruit
• Extract
• Cream
• Lotion
• Soap

Side effects

What side effects can bay leaves cause?

The benefits of bay leaves for health are not in doubt, but this one herbal plant is also at risk of causing side effects. Some of the side effects of bay leaf are:

• Digestive tract disorders
• Acute inflammation of the digestive tract
• Allergic reactions
• Skin infection
• Asthma
• Hard to breathe

Not everyone experiences these side effects. There may be some side effects not listed above. If there are complaints about side effects, contact an herbalist or doctor.

Security

What should I know before consuming bay leaves?

In order for optimal benefits, there are a number of things that must be considered before consuming this herbal plant:

• Monitor for symptoms of hypoglycemia or hyperglycemia.
• Do not take bay leaves at the same time as diabetes drugs or insulin because it can cause low sugar.

The regulations governing the use of herbal plants are less stringent than the regulations for medicinal use. Further research is needed to determine its safety. Before using herbal plants, make sure the benefits outweigh the risks. Consult your herbalist and doctor for more information.

How safe are bay leaves?

Pregnant and nursing mothers are not advised to take bay leaf supplements until further research is available. Keep out of reach of children. For those who have allergies, it is advisable not to consume bay leaves.

Interaction

What kind of interactions might occur when I consume bay leaves?

Some of the interactions that may occur when you consume bay leaves are:

• Bay leaves can increase levels of CNS depressants and opioids.
• Bay leaves can increase the hypoglycemic effect of insulin and diabetes drugs.
• Bay leaves can increase glucose levels in the blood which affect the results of health tests.

This herbal plant may interact with your other current medications or your current medical condition. Consult your herbalist or doctor before using it.

Hello Health Group does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.