“Always, the laurel enjoys great fame, symbolizing the moral values of fidelity and chastity, so much so that it was described by Empedocles as supreme among plants. In ancient Rome, the heads of future emperors were surrounded with a crown of intertwined laurel branches and, in the same way, in ancient Greece the heads of the winning athletes of the Olympic Games were adorned with laurel, as a symbol of glory and honor .even today, the custom of offering the student who obtains a degree a laurel wreath or wreath full of berries has spread. And in fact, the term ‘laureate’ derives from the Latin ‘laureatus’ or ‘crowned with laurel (laurel)'”. The immunologist explains it to adnkronos Salute Mauro Minelliprofessor of dietetics and nutrition at Lum university.
“The analysis of the nutritional profile of laurel and the description of its properties is very interesting many different beneficial properties in the kitcheneven starry, and not only. What emerges in the foreground on the nutritional side – he continues – is that, compared to just six calories provided by a spoonful of product, bay leaves are an crucial source of minerals such as iron, calcium, potassium, but also of vitamin A and vitamin C. Especially precious is its essential oil, composed of a series of aromatic substances, including eugenol, limonene, geraniol, eucalyptol and pinene, which give the laurel important beneficial properties for the benefit of various organs and districts of the human organism”.
The decalogue proposed by the immunologist:
1) Just think, for example, of the ‘aperitif’ properties of bay leaves, capable of stimulating the appetite and, therefore, preparing the gastrointestinal system to welcome and process food.
2) For this reason, ‘digestive’ properties are also attributed to laurel, precisely because of its ability to promote digestion and facilitate the expulsion of intestinal gas, thus counteracting bloating and postprandial abdominal colic.
3) But laurel essential oil,by virtue of its ‘balsamic’ properties,also contributes to thinning bronchial catarrh,promoting expectoration and relieving coughs.
4) Laurel’s further ability is to regulate sweating, contributing, in the form of infusions, to lower body temperature in case of high fever, but also to reduce, in the form of foot baths, excessive sweating of the feet.
5) laurel preparations are attributed with anti-inflammatory and anti-edema properties as they are considered capable of relieving pain in cases of rheumatism or fibromyalgia,as well as promoting healing from small traumas and hematomas.
6) In the cosmetics sector, oleolite has great historical importance, a product obtained from the maceration of laurel berries mixed in olive oil, used sence Babylonian times, 2500 years before Christ, to prepare Aleppo soap, a of the oldest detergents but still used today to treat very sensitive skin or skin affected by pathological processes such as in the case of allergic or irritative dermatitis.
And again: 7) The lauric acid contained in laurel is attributed with repellent properties capable of keeping away annoying insects such as mosquitoes, but also parasites.
8) In the kitchen, the unmistakable aroma emanating from bay leaves enriches the most diverse dishes with taste and flavor, from legumes, to fish, to meat with particular reference to game. Furthermore, herbal teas and liqueurs are also prepared from laurel leaves, among which laurel stands out, a gentle bitter with a pleasantly herbaceous taste, the planning of which requires a preliminary process of maceration of the laurel in alcohol and subsequent filtering with the elimination of the leaves.
10) And, speaking of contraindications to the use of laurel, its cross-allergic reactivity with the pollens of some plants, such as mugwort, wormwood, daisies, belonging to the botanical family of the Compositae, must also be considered. It follows that those allergic to the pollens of these plants will do well to avoid contact with laurel even if cooked.
What are the key health benefits of incorporating laurel into our diets?
Interview Between Time.news Editor and Dr.Mauro Minelli, Immunologist and Professor of Dietetics and nutrition
Time.news Editor (TNE): Welcome,Dr.minelli! It’s a pleasure to have you with us today to discuss the captivating role of the laurel plant.Your insights into its historical and nutritional significance promise to be enlightening.
Dr. Mauro Minelli (MM): Thank you for having me! The laurel plant has a rich history and serves many purposes that are often overlooked today.
TNE: Absolutely! I was intrigued to learn that laurel symbolizes fidelity and chastity and has been celebrated as ancient times.Can you tell us more about its significance in those historical contexts?
MM: Certainly! In ancient Rome,the laurel wreath was more than just a decorative piece. It indicated noble status—future emperors were crowned with laurel, signifying their glory and authority. Similarly, Greek Olympians received laurel wreaths as tokens of their victories, embodying honor and achievement.
TNE: That’s fascinating! It seems the laurel has maintained its prestige through the ages. Today, we even refer to award recipients as “laureates.” How does this historical symbolism translate into modern times?
MM: The connection is quite beautiful! The term “laureate,” stemming from the Latin ‘laureatus’, reflects the idea of being crowned, much like how athletes were celebrated in ancient times. Today, the laurel wreath is commonly presented to graduates, symbolizing academic achievement and success. It’s a nod to the enduring legacy of honor associated with laurel.
TNE: So,as we see,the laurel continues to represent achievement. But beyond symbolism, can you shed some light on its nutritional properties and its relevance in our diets today?
MM: Absolutely! Laurel leaves, frequently enough used in cooking, are not just flavorful; they also carry several health benefits. They are known for their anti-inflammatory properties and support digestion. Furthermore, laurel contains essential oils and antioxidants that can boost our immune system.
TNE: That’s remarkable! Could you elaborate on how one might incorporate laurel into their diet?
MM: Certainly! The most common way is to use dried bay leaves in soups, stews, and sauces, where they impart rich flavors. Though, it’s critically important to remove them before serving as they can be tough and sharp. Fresh laurel can be used in salads or as a garnish as well.
TNE: Fascinating! So, not only does laurel have a storied past, but it also offers modern-day culinary and health benefits. Are there any other engaging uses of laurel that our readers should know about?
MM: Beyond its culinary applications, laurel leaves can also be used in herbal teas, which are soothing and aid digestion.In ancient times, people believed that laurel had protective qualities; it was frequently enough used in rituals. Today, we can still find laurel in the world of natural remedies for various ailments.
TNE: It sounds like laurel is a true super plant! Dr. Minelli, thank you for sharing these insights with us. Before we wrap up, what is one takeaway you’d like our readers to remember about laurel?
MM: I would encourage everyone to appreciate laurel not just for its historic symbolism but also for its nutritional benefits. It’s a versatile herb that’s worth incorporating into your cooking. Whether for its flavor or its health properties, laurel deserves a place in our modern diets.
TNE: Splendid advice! Thank you, Dr.Minelli, for your time and expertise.We look forward to your future insights on nutrition and health.
MM: Thank you! It was a pleasure discussing this with you.