Why Indians Use Bay Leaf In Biriyani?

Apart from a peculiar aroma and taste, bay leaves also have some medicinal properties. Read on to know...

Thursday, March 2, 2017, 10:20 [IST]

Biriyani is tasty; but not without bay leaf! Indians use bay leaf in may varieties of dishes and even soups. Why? Well, it offers a peculiar taste and aroma to the rice when added to Biriyani.

Not only taste or flavour, bay leaf has a lot more to offer. It has medicinal properties. In fact, the extract of these leaves is used in many therapeutic products. (But only the original bay leaves have the aroma and the healing properties. Duplicate leaves don't work!).

Well, how do these leaves help? Bay leaves can enhance digestion, prevent diabetes, protect you from bacterial infections, enhance your heart health and reduce inflammation. Read on to know more...

Note: Consult your doctor before using bay leaf as some people may develop allergies after using it internally or externally.

Benefit #1

Bay leaf can soothe an upset stomach and even irritable bowel syndrome.

Certain enzymes present in it can enhance your digestion. Also, bay leaf can hep your gastrointestinal system flush out toxins.

Benefit #2

There are two compounds known as rutin and caffeic present in bay leaf. Both of them are good for your heart. Bay leaf can strengthen the heart and also lower bad cholesterol levels.

Also Read : Check Out The Beauty Benefits Of Bay Leaf

Benefit #3

Parthenolide is a phytonutrient present in bay leaves which is anti-inflammatory. Adding bay leaf to your rice dish can help reduce inflammation in your body.

If you apply the oil of these leaves on sore joints, you can find some relief from pains.

Benefit #4

Inhaling the smell of bay leaves or its oil can ease breathing issues. The aroma can also eliminate mucus and kill bacteria.

Benefit #5

Bay leaves enhance the function of insulin receptors and they help in controlling blood sugar levels. Adding bay leaf to your rice occasionally can prevent diabetes.

Benefit #6

There are so many anti-oxidants and other compounds like parthenolide, linalool and catechins in bay leaf which combat free radical damage. This way, bay leaf can prevent cancer.

Also Read : Here Are Some Health Benefits Of Bay Leaf