Boiling bay leaves and drinking the liquid is a traditional health secret that targets inflammation and digestion in a way few other herbs can. While we usually use bay leaves to flavor soups, they are actually packed with phytonutrients and essential oils like eucalyptol. When you boil them, these oils are released into the water, creating a powerful tonic that acts as a natural cleanser for your internal organs.+1
Drinking this “bay tea” is especially beneficial for the respiratory system and the heart. It helps to clear mucus from the lungs and helps the body manage “bad” cholesterol levels. Because bay leaves have a naturally calming effect, this drink is also one of the best ways to lower stress levels and prepare your body for a deep, restorative sleep.+2
What Happens to Your Body When You Drink Bay Leaf Water
- Flushes the Kidneys: Bay leaf water acts as a gentle diuretic, helping your body get rid of excess salt and toxins that can lead to bloating or kidney stones.
- Lowers Blood Sugar: Studies show that bay leaves can improve insulin function, making this a great drink for balancing glucose levels after a heavy meal.
- Stops Bloating and Gas: The enzymes in the leaves help break down complex proteins in your food, which stops the stomach from feeling heavy and uncomfortable.
- Clears the Airways: The aromatic vapors from the tea help open up the lungs and soothe a sore throat, making it a perfect remedy for the common cold.
- Reduces Heart Stress: Bay leaves contain caffeic acid, which helps strengthen the walls of the heart and lowers the risk of cardiovascular issues.
Recipe for the Restorative Bay Leaf Tea
This simple tea can be enjoyed once or twice a day to keep your digestion smooth and your mind calm.
Ingredients:
- 3 to 4 Dried Bay Leaves (Fresh leaves also work well)
- 2 cups of Filtered Water
- 1 Cinnamon Stick (Optional, to help with blood sugar and flavor)
- 1 teaspoon of Raw Honey (To be added after cooking)
Instructions:
- The Boil: Place the water and the bay leaves (and the cinnamon stick, if using) in a small pot.
- The Simmer: Bring the water to a boil, then turn the heat down and let it simmer for 10 minutes. The water should turn a light green or golden color.
- The Rest: Turn off the heat and let the tea sit for 5 minutes with a lid on the pot to trap the healing vapors.
- The Strain: Pour the liquid into a mug through a strainer to remove the leaves.
- The Sweetener: Add the honey once the tea is warm, not boiling, to keep the honey’s nutrients alive.
- The Timing: Drink a cup in the evening to relax your muscles and help you sleep, or after a large meal to help with digestion.
Recipe for the Bay Leaf and Lemon Detox Drink
If you want to focus on weight loss and cleaning your liver, this version of the drink is more effective.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup of Bay Leaf Tea (Prepare as shown above)
- Juice of 1/2 Lemon
- A slice of Fresh Ginger
Instructions:
- The Infusion: Add the ginger slice to the pot while the bay leaves are simmering.
- The Acid: Once the tea is strained and warm, stir in the fresh lemon juice.
- The Use: Drink this in the morning on an empty stomach to “awaken” your metabolism and start your day with a detoxed liver.
Three Tips for Getting the Best Results
- Don’t Over-Boil: Simmering for 10 minutes is enough. If you boil the leaves for too long, the tea can become very bitter and lose some of its delicate oils.
- Store Properly: Keep your dried bay leaves in a dark, airtight container. If they lose their smell, they have lost their healing power.
- Listen to Your Body: Because bay leaf water is a natural diuretic, make sure you drink plenty of plain water during the day to stay hydrated.
A Friendly Tip for Success
You can also use the leftover boiled leaves! Once they have cooled down, you can place them on your forehead for a few minutes to help soothe a tension headache. You’ll know the “Bay Leaf Secret” is working when you notice that you no longer feel “puffy” in the morning and your digestion feels quiet and comfortable after every meal!
