Bay Leaf — Nutrients, Health Benefits, And Shopping Tips
Written by Listonic Team
Last update on September 4, 2024
Nutrients
Nutrition facts
Amount per 100 g
Calories
🔥 313 kcal
| Nutrition per: 100 g | Value | % Daily Value* |
|---|---|---|
| Carbs | 75 g | 27.27% |
| Fiber | 26 g | 92.86% |
| Sugars | 0 g | - |
| Glycemic Index | 5 | - |
| Protein | 8 g | 16% |
| Sodium | 23 mg | 1% |
| Total Fat | 8 g | 10.26% |
*The % of Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
26 g
✅ High Fiber Content
5
🟢 Low Glycemic Index
Key takeaways
Health benefits
- Rich in antioxidants, which help protect the body from free radicals and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
- Supports digestive health by stimulating the production of digestive enzymes and reducing symptoms of indigestion and bloating.
- Contains anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation and support overall health.
- Provides essential vitamins and minerals such as Vitamin A, Vitamin C, iron, and calcium, which are important for overall health and well-being.
Health risks
- Choking hazard if not removed before serving, as bay leaves remain tough and can cause choking or damage the digestive tract if swallowed.
- Allergic reactions in some individuals, causing symptoms such as itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing.
- Pesticide residue on non-organic bay leaves, which can pose health risks over time if not properly washed.
- Potential interactions with medications such as blood thinners, due to compounds in bay leaves that may affect blood clotting.
How to choose bay leaf
Choose bay leaves that are whole and vibrant green, as they provide more flavor. They should be flexible and have a strong, aromatic scent, which is a good indicator of their essential oils and freshness.
Avoid bay leaves that are brittle, pale, or lack aroma, as these are signs they are too old to provide any substantial flavor to your dishes. Brittle leaves often crumble when added to cooking, dispersing little to no flavor.
How to store bay leaf
Bay leaves should be stored in an airtight container in a cool, dark place to preserve their flavor and aroma. A spice cabinet away from heat sources is ideal for maintaining their quality. Properly stored bay leaves can last up to a year.
Direct sunlight and moisture can degrade the quality of bay leaves, so these should be avoided. Do not store bay leaves near the stove, where heat can diminish their potency. Using dry utensils when handling them helps prevent contamination.
✅ Extra Tip
How long does it last?
Bay leaves can last for 1-2 years when stored in an airtight container in a cool, dark place. To maintain their flavor, keep them away from heat, moisture, and light. Dried bay leaves retain their potency longer than fresh ones.
What to do with leftovers?
Leftover bay leaves can be used in a variety of ways beyond just flavoring soups and stews. In the kitchen, they can still be added to braises, sauces, or marinades to impart their subtle, earthy aroma. Bay leaves can also be placed in containers of rice, flour, or other grains to help deter pests.
Outside the kitchen, bay leaves have several household uses. They are known for their natural insect-repelling properties, so placing them in pantries, closets, or around pet beds can help keep pests like ants and moths away. Bay leaves can also be used in DIY projects; for instance, they can be dried and used in potpourri to add a pleasant fragrance to your home. Additionally, bay leaves can be included in homemade bath sachets, providing a relaxing and aromatic experience when added to bathwater.
👨⚕️️ Medical disclaimer
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Listonic Team
Fact-checked
Our editorial team checked this article to make sure it was accurate at the time of publishing it.
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