What are the nutritional properties of laurel?
In a spoonful of chopped bay leaf , about 1.8 g, there is an intake of about 6 calories . In the same quantity there are also:
- 0.10 g of water
- 1.14 g of protein
- 0.15 g of lipids
- 1.35 g of carbohydrates
- 0.5 g of fiber
- 111 IU of vitamin A
- 0.8 mg of vitamin C
- 0.036 mg of vitamin B3 (niacin)
- 0.031 mg of vitamin B6
- 0.008 mg of vitamin B2 (riboflavin)
- 3 µg of folate
- 15 mg of calcium
- 10 mg of potassium
- 2 mg of phosphorus
- 2 mg of magnesium
- 0.77 mg of iron
- 0.07 mg of zinc
- 0.05 µg of selenium
- 0.007 mg of copper .
Laurel is a source of essential oils particularly rich in cineol .
When should you not eat bay leaf?
The consumption of laurel can interfere with taking narcotic drugs and sedatives . If in doubt, it is best to seek advice from your doctor.
What are the possible benefits of laurel?
Leaves and berries laurel have properties diuretic , astringent and stimulating appetite . Its green parts in the form of an infusion are used to relieve the symptoms or pains associated with gastric ulcer or to treat colic and flatulence . The essential oil is rather used in many medicines to treat muscle aches , arthritis , bronchitis and ‘symptoms influence .
The consumption of this aromatic herb promotes the proper functioning of the immune system (thanks to vitamin C), is important for the development of the nervous system during gestation (folic acid), ensures antioxidant properties (vitamin A), promotes the proper functioning of the metabolism (B vitamins)
Among the minerals, potassium is an ally of the heart , calcium phosphorus and magnesium are useful for the health of bones and teeth , iron and copper intervene in the production of red blood cells .
Laurel contains lauric acid , a molecule that is repellent against insects.
