Bay leaves were used as an aromatic ingredient in cooking and have a long history of use for their healthful properties. Bay leaf adds strong savory and herbal notes to soups, stews, and sauces. It pairs nicely with other savory Mediterranean spices like rosemary, parsley, and thyme.
Aromatic and astringent in nature, bay leaf was employed in traditional European herbalism for its healthful properties for centuries. Slightly bitter in taste, the leaf has a history of use in infusions as well as in culinary recipes. The bay leaf is an essential component of bouquet garni and adds a flavorful wellness boost to soups and stocks. The leaves were traditionally utilized in topical applications as well. The essential oil of bay laurel is often used in aromatherapy.
Romans considered the bay tree the best protection from thunderstorms. Superstition held that when bay trees died, disaster followed. Ever since humans have been using bay leaves, they have been associated with good luck, and warding off evil.
Dried bay leaves can be added to cooking or consumed as a tea. Bay leaf comes together with parsley and thyme resulting in the subtle yet flavorful blend. It enhances the taste of any stew, soup, or sauce it is introduced into. It can also be added to pickling blends. Crushed bay leaves can even be used in external preparations.
Cautions: No known precautions. We recommend that you consult with a qualified healthcare practitioner before using herbal products, particularly if you are pregnant, nursing, or on any medications.