Laurel and salt leaves: an ancient remedy that is worth gold | March 16, 2025

The combination of laurel leaves and salt is a natural remedy that boasts a long tradition in folk medicine practices and cooking. This simple mix not only adds flavor to dishes, but also offers a number of health benefits.

We explore how these two ingredients, apparently common, can do much more than flavor foods, offering lots of uses and benefits.
1. Digestive properties

Laurel leaves are known for their digestive properties. They contain enzymes that help break down proteins, facilitating digestion and preventing abdominal bloating and gas formation. When combined with salt, which stimulates the production of gastric juices, these leaves can help improve digestion and prevent disorders such as indigestion or constipation.
2. Anti-inflammatory effects

The laurel leaves contain eugenol, a compound with powerful anti-inflammatory properties. This makes them useful for relieving joint and muscle pain. Adding salt, particularly sea salt, can amplify these effects, as salt has osmotic properties that help reduce inflammation and prevent the stagnation of fluid in the tissues.
3. Purification and detoxification

The combination of laurel leaves and salt can be used to purify the body. Laurel leaves have natural diuretic properties that promote the elimination of toxins through urine. Salt, especially when used in baths, can help eliminate toxins through the skin and stimulate blood circulation.
4. Respiratory benefits

An infusion of laurel leaves and salt can be used to improve respiratory health. Laurel leaves contain essential oils such as cineol, which has expectorant properties and can help clear the airways. Smoking the vapors of a bay leaf infusion and salt can relieve the symptoms of cold, cough and nasal congestion.
5. Support to the immune system

Laurel leaves are rich in essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C and manganese, which support the immune system. Regular use of this combination can help strengthen the body’s defenses against infection and improve the immune response.
6. Benefits for the skin

The topical use of the laurel and salt combination can have beneficial effects on the skin. A hot bath with bay leaves and sea salt can help calm irritated skin, reduce inflammation and promote healing of small wounds. In addition, the antimicrobial properties of laurel can help prevent skin infections.
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