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Bay Herb - Uses And Side Effects

An ingredient in some natural toothpastes, bay usually is obtained from the leaves and berries of Laurus Robilis, a small tree native to the Mediterranean area. A different bay tree species that grows in California has a more bitter product used primarily in extracts. Because bay seems to enhance insulin's effects, some nutritionists recommend it for diabetic diets.

Common doses of Bay

Bay is available as leaves, berries, extracts, and essential oil.

Some people apply bay extracts topically or use them in baths and soaks. The leaves typically are used to season foods. Before eating bay leaves, be sure to thoroughly dry and crush them.

Why people use Bay herb

• As an antiseptic
• As a stimulant
• Common cold
• Fluid retention
• Muscle sprains and strains.
• Rheumatism.

Side effects of Bay

Contact your health care practitioner if you experience any of these possible side effects of bay.

• asthma
• skin irritation

Interactions

Combining herbs with certain drugs may alter their action or produce unwanted side effects. Tell your health care practitioner about any prescription or nonprescription drugs you're taking, especially insulin.

Important points to remember

• Don't use bay if you're pregnant or breast-feeding.
• Don't consume essential oil from bay leaves because of the risk of allergic reaction and an asthma attack.
• Don't ingest whole, intact bay leaves. Because of their sharp, serrated edges, they can become lodged in the esophagus or intestine. Some people have had to have surgery to remove them.

What the research shows

Although bay leaf is a popular seasoning, scientists can't verify claims that it's effective in treating diabetes or any other disease.

Other names for Bay: -

Other names for bay include bay laurel, bay leaf, bay tree and sweet bay.

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