This wonderful aromatic spice has and still is been used in my household for many things including making tea (one of my favs!), stewing meat and even placing a few leaves in bulk rice to avoid weevil infestations just to name a few. Bay Leaf is a well known spice grown not only in Grenada but several other parts of the world. With that being said, let us take a look at some scientifically proven benefits of using this awesome spice!

Bay leaves are used commonly as a cooking ingredient; and is considered as a herbal plant that is beneficial for both health and beauty as they are rich in nutritious substances.

Some benefits of Bay Leaf are:

• Constipation – Bay leaves can be inserted in our foods to help maintain a health digestive system; as the vitamins and minerals found in them help the digestive system, while solving digestive issues such as constipation and diarrhoea
• Increasing Immunity – Bay leaves, whether dry or fresh, can be added to our cooking (fish, meat etc), as the nutrients found in them are beneficial for keeping us healthy while improving our body immunity
• Protect Heart Health – Two important organic compounds called caffeic and rutin are found in bay leaves that improve heart health. Caffeic acid can help eliminate bad cholesterol from the cardiovascular system, while rutin strengthens the capillary walls in the heart and the body’s extremities
• Relieving Pain – Oil extracted from bay leaves contains inflammation that relieves pains caused by strain, sprain, arthritis and rheumatism. This oil also helps relieve headaches and migraines. Bay leaves are beneficial in increasing blood circulation
• Prevent Cancer – Bay leaves consist of caffeic acid, quercetin, euganol and catechin, which protect and prevent the body from various cancers. They also contain a phytonutrient called parthenolide, that has proven to be effective in keeping excessive growth of cervical cancer cells
• Reduces Stress and Anxiety – The linalool that is found in basil and thyme , is also present in bay leaves. When used especially in aromatherapy, this compound can help lower the level of stress hormones in the body, as too much stress hormones can lead to serious health issues in the long term

Overall, bay leaves are really beneficial to one’s health. However, as in everything else, it must be consumed in moderation. Further information on this wonderful spice can be researched.

So there you have it guys! Hope you enjoyed today’s blog. See you in the next one.

The post Bay Leaf: A must have spice for any kitchen appeared first on Spice Island Cooking.

As you know, I am from Grenada, known as the Spice Island. Grenada got this name due to the amount/ variety of spices it produces. So naturally, spices are a way of life for me. it’s in my blood y’all.

My fondest memories of this spice growing up was scraping and taking of the bark in the summer time to prepare for selling to customers and also to make cinnamon tea that was boiled in water and left to seep for a few minutes before drinking like that or adding milk for a more sophisticated look/drink. Now mind you, I had to do my share of cutting the tree as well, but mostly my brothers do the cutting.

With that being said, lets get right into it!

Cinnamon

Cinnamon is a spice obtained from the inner bark of several tree species from the genus Cinnamomum. Cinnamon is used mainly as an aromatic condiment and flavouring additive in a wide variety of cuisines, sweet and savoury dishes, breakfast cereals, snack foods, tea and traditional foods. The aroma and flavour of cinnamon derive from its essential oil and principal component, cinnamaldehyde, as well as numerous other constituents, including eugenol.

Some benefits of Cinnamon

– Is High in a Substance With Powerful Medicinal Properties

– Is Loaded With Antioxidants

– Has Anti-Inflammatory Properties

– May Cut the Risk of Heart Disease

– Can Improve Sensitivity to the Hormone Insulin

– Lowers Blood Sugar Levels and Has a Powerful Anti-Diabetic Effect

– Helps Fight Bacterial and Fungal Infections

– May Protect Against Cancer

-Lowering the effects of high fat meals

-Reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease

.. and the list of benefits could go on. As in everything else it must be used in moderation especially when using as a tea as I love to do that. Anything that is taken in overindulgence is never good for your body. So please take note.

Hope you enjoyed today’s blog and looking forward to seeing you in the next one.

Remember, next time you see some Cinnamon: A must have spice to keep in your Kitchen lying around just know that it’s loaded with antioxidant properties which is great for your body and immune system.

The post Cinnamon: A must have spice to keep in your Kitchen appeared first on Spice Island Cooking.