Because bay leaves have anti-inflammatory qualities and can aid in digestion and respiratory health, people have been using them for thousands of years.
When they are raw, they taste bitter; however, after simmering for an hour, they taste even better.
It's likely that you believe you don't have an hour to spare. But now you can burn them if you want to enjoy the wonderful benefits of bay leaves!
By burning them you accelerate the release of their active compounds, because of the intense fire. The inhalation of the smell provides various health benefits. The two most important are:
Respiratory Relief
Since bay leaves have anti-inflammatory compounds ( mycrene and eugenol ), they provide amazing effects when it comes to reducing stress. After the bay leaf is burned, they become airborne and relieve respiratory inflammations, treat colds, and prevent allergies.
Reduced Anxiety
A study by the American Association of Nurse Anesthetics found that the other significant compound of bay leaves is linalool, and it improves social interaction and can reduce anxiety.
Linalool needs ten minutes of smelling the burning leaf in order to start acting. This has been reported to have a mild psychedelic effect. But if you burn them properly, bay leaves quickly release their extremely beneficial compounds.
Just place a dried bay leaf in an ashtray, set it on fire, then leave the room and close the door. The beneficial smell will fill the room, so you can return in a few minutes. After this, blow out the embers and start inhaling deeply.
