Bay leaf has been the most underrated ingredient that has been lending a delicious flavour to Indian dishes for centuries.
The humble leaf, which occupies prime importance as a kitchen ingredient in every Indian home, is also beneficial for the human body in its burnt form.
As per reports, the chemicals that emit after bay leaves are burnt can have a number of health benefits.
According to the American Association of Nurse Anesthetists, the chemical linalool which is emitted after burning a bay leaf is a great stress reliever as it reduces anxiety levels of persons.
The smoke also has the ability to calm the human body and mind.
Burnt bay leaves also emit chemical eugenol which has anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties.
Eugenol can reduce inflammation in the body, especially within the areas of joints. It can also boost our immune system.
Apart from calming the body, bay leaf smoke can also act as an energy booster as it comprises of chemicals such as pinene, cineol, and elemicin which can help a person to fight off feelings of tiredness.
It can also help treat clogged, backed up respiratory passages and lungs.
Some people use bay leaf smoke to create a suitable environment for practising meditation.
To get more benefits of bay leaf smoke, one can use burnt bay leaves to flavour their dishes and get double benefits, i.e. a flavourful and healthy meal.