Bay Leaves: Health Benefits and Cooking Uses

(Updated Version)
In Malaysia, bay leaves are somewhat unfamiliar, with many people unsure of their appearance or uses. Some wonder if these are the same leaves used in biryani rice - referring to the dried ones commonly found in stores. It might seem surprising, but bay leaves offer a wealth of health benefits, making them a valuable addition to any pantry (GROWING SPRING ONIONS IN URBAN GARDENS).

Health Benefits of Bay Leaves

Here are some key health benefits of bay leaves: 

Heart Health

Bay leaves help lower bad cholesterol levels and strengthen blood vessels, reducing heart disease risk.

Digestive Aid

Known for easing digestion, bay leaves can reduce bloating and stomach discomfort, and may encourage urination to flush out toxins.

 

Blood Sugar Control

They may help regulate blood sugar, making them useful for managing diabetes or preventing it.

Anti-Inflammatory Properties
Bay leaves contain compounds with anti-inflammatory effects, which may help alleviate joint pain, arthritis symptoms, and general inflammation in the body.

Immune Support
Rich in antioxidants like vitamin C and vitamin A, bay leaves can help boost the immune system, protecting the body against common illnesses and promoting overall health.

With such benefits, incorporating bay leaves into cooking makes sense. Fresh bay leaves (NASI KERABU/MALAYSIAN HERBS RICE) are especially potent, though dried ones can also be used when fresh are unavailable.

Fresh vs. Dried Bay Leaves in Cooking

Having a bay leaf tree outside Nava’s Zen, I find fresh bay leaves offer unique advantages when incorporated into cooking:

 

Stronger Flavor

Fresh bay leaves provide a vibrant, potent flavor with concentrated essential oils, enhancing the taste of soups, stews, and sauces.

 

Enhanced Aroma

Fresh leaves release aromatic oils more readily, adding a rich fragrance to dishes that elevates the overall sensory experience.

Versatility

Fresh bay leaves can be added at different stages in cooking, allowing for customized flavor intensity. Chopping or tearing the leaves releases oils faster, which is an added versatility over dried leaves.

 

Cooking Ideas with Bay Leaves

I've used bay leaves in several dishes - and here’s one simple recipe to incorporate them into okra (also known as lady’s fingers). It’s a straightforward dish with natural health benefits, making it a great addition to a wholesome eating routine.

Bay Leaves for Pest Control and Aromatherapy
Did you know that burning bay leaves works as a natural insect repellent and can provide soothing aromatherapy benefits? After trimming our bay leaf tree, I dry the leaves and use them to naturally repel mosquitoes. Check out our step-by-step video below (also on our Nava’s Zen YouTube channel) to learn how to use bay leaves for this purpose.

The essential oils in bay leaves can also help clear respiratory issues. Inhaling steam infused with bay leaves may relieve cold or allergy symptoms, while the calming scent helps ease stress and anxiety.

It might be time to give bay leaves a try- and even consider growing a bay leaf plant yourself. They’re easy to grow and come with so many benefits.