What Happens To Your Body If You Drink Bay Leaf Water For 14 Days?

Bay leaf is one of the most commonly used spices in Indian kitchens. It has been used to boost flavour of soups, biryani, curries, and other rice dishes. Bay leaf has also been used for several herbal wellness practices. Bay leaves can offer an array of health benefits such as better digestion, decreased inflammation, improved blood sugar management, and better hair health. It can also improve heart health as a result of its anti-inflammatory properties.

Bay leaves benefits also include decreased anxiety, effective cancer prevention, and improved sleep. The leaves are also used in the treatment of dandruff and hair loss. Some people use bay leaves as insect repellant.  

According to a study featured in National Library of Medicine, “Bay leaves having antidiarrheal, anti inflammatory, and antidiabetic activity are used for the improvement of the immune system. Antioxidants such as vitamin C, vitamin E, and carotenoids are used in many dietary sources and are used to lower blood cholesterol and uric acid level.” ¹

The leaves of bay are specific for many fevers, cough, flu, bronchitis, asthma, influenza, cough, cold, lowering blood cholesterol level, chicken pox, diarrhea, and antistress agents, added the study.

Recently, dietitian Shweta J Panchal took to her Instagram account and highlighted some of the key benefits of bay leaves that you should not miss. Sharing the post, she said, “14 days. One ingredient. Results that will surprise you. Bay leaf — the spice you only use for biryani — is actually one of the most powerful herbs in your masala dabba.”

She said, bay leaf has bio active compounds like polyphenols and flavonoids which can support metabolic and gut functions. When you consume it regularly for the next 14 days, it stimulates digestive enzymes, which can improve your digestion and reduce heaviness that some individuals experience quite often post meals.

In fact, there are a lot of studies which suggest that, bay leaf helps with blood sugar regulation. So, If you have diabetes, pre-diabetes, insulin resistance, PCOS, you can consume bay leaf water, added Shweta J Panchal. ²

Bay leaf has excellent anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties. If you have low-grade inflammation or metabolic condition, wherein inflammation is usually a part of it, you should start consuming bay leaf water, revealed the dietitian.

How To Prepare Bay Leaf Water?

The dietitian recommended to boil 2-3 bay leaves in 2-cups of water for 5-7 minutes, strain and drink warm on an empty stomach. Do not consume more than once, especially if you have any underlying medical conditions.”

The dietitian listed the benefits given below when you consume bay leaf water for 14 days:

• Bloating and acidity settle

• Blood sugar stabilizes

• Inflammation reduces

• Stress and cortisol drop

• Immunity quietly strengthens 

Bay Leaf Water Benefits

Supports Digestion:  The leaves have the potential to support and improve digestion. The leaves contain plant compound that can stimulate digestive enzymes and enhance digestion. Some people observe decreased bloating and feel light after meals when combined with healthy eating habits.  

Supports Hydration: Sipping bay leaf water can enhance daily hydration that can subsequently enhance overall body function. Adequate hydration is significant for digestion, skin health, and improved energy levels.  

Offers Antioxidants: Bay leaves contains antioxidants that can protect cells from oxidative stress caused by free radicals. Antioxidants can support overall health by decreasing inflammation in the body.  

Support Blood Sugar: Presence of compounds in bay leaves can support healthy blood sugar metabolism when combined with a balanced diet and lifestyle. However, bay leaves water should never replace medical cure for diabetes and blood sugar issues.  

Boosts Relaxation: Bay leaves offer aromatic compounds that have been associated with calming effects. Some individuals may feel increasingly relaxed after drinking lukewarm bay leaf water, especially as part of a calming morning or evening routine.  

Improves Immune Health: Bay leaves contains essential vitamins and plant compounds that can support overall immunity. Combined with a nutrient rich diet, bay leaves water can lead to better overall general well-being.  

Important Considerations

Bay leaves water may offer significant benefits, but excess consumption should always be avoided. Moderation will remain the key when it comes to bay leaf water especially for those with existing medical conditions. Pregnant women or people with chronic illness should speak to their healthcare professional before adding bay leaf water to their lifestyle. It is worth mentioning that no single drink can detoxify body or treat health conditions. It is significant to remember that balanced meals, physical activity, healthy sleep, and overall lifestyle habits will go a long way in improving overall health.  

Drinking bay leaf infused water for 14 days may support digestion, hydration, relaxation, and overall wellness due to its antioxidant and plant compound content. While it is not a miracle remedy, including it in moderation as part of a healthy lifestyle may offer some potential health-supporting benefits naturally.

FAQs

References

1. National Library of Medicine|Bay Leaf

2. Dietitian Shweta J Panchal|Bay leaf water for 14 days

Disclaimer: This content is for general informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider with any questions about your health or treatment options.