Laurel is a plant that has been used since ancient times, considered sacred by the Greeks and Romans, who used it to adorn the heads of poets and leaders as a symbol of wisdom and glory. It is no surprise that it is still used today to crown the heads of students who achieve the coveted goal of graduating.
But beyond its role in rituals of celebration and prestige, laurel has many virtues that our ancestors knew well and took advantage of in their daily lives. Among these numerous virtues, one of the most interesting is its connection to well-being and health: placing bay leaves under the pillow. An ancient practice often passed down from generation to generation that deserves to be rediscovered and honored today. Here is a complete exploration of the benefits of laurel and the reasons why this old custom of grandparents should not be forgotten.
Laurel: A Plant with Multiple Virtues
Laurel is much more than just an aromatic herb that enriches dishes. Its medicinal properties are numerous and varied, making it a true treasure of nature. Used in traditional medicine, laurel is renowned for its beneficial effects on health.
1. Improvement of Digestion
Laurel is primarily known for its digestive benefits. It helps stimulate the production of gastric juices, thus facilitating the digestion of food. It is also effective in relieving abdominal pain, colic, and bloating—common ailments often linked to poor digestion. A laurel infusion can be an excellent natural remedy after a heavy meal to soothe the stomach and promote easier digestion.
2. Expectorant Properties
Laurel also has expectorant properties, making it a valuable ally in cases of colds or the flu. It helps clear the respiratory tract by promoting the elimination of mucus and soothing coughs. To take advantage of this benefit, a laurel leaf infusion can be a soothing remedy to calm an irritated throat and promote easier breathing.
3. Anti-Inflammatory Benefits
Laurel is known for its anti-inflammatory properties, making it a traditional remedy for joint pain, such as arthritis and rheumatism. Applying a laurel compress to painful areas can reduce inflammation and ease discomfort. Additionally, laurel essential oils are often used in massages to relax tight muscles and alleviate body pain.
4. Repellent Against Insects and Parasites
Another practical advantage of laurel is its ability to repel insects and parasites. Laurel leaves contain compounds that act as natural repellents, particularly against moths, mosquitoes, and other harmful insects. Placing a few laurel leaves in drawers and cupboards not only protects clothes and other items but also creates a fresh and pleasant environment.
5. Stress Relief and Sleep Improvement
Laurel also has relaxing properties that can help reduce stress and improve sleep quality. The leaves of the laurel tree release natural aromas that promote relaxation, reducing the tension accumulated throughout the day. This is where we return to the old custom of grandparents placing laurel leaves under the pillow—a simple yet effective practice to improve the quality of sleep.
Why Place Laurel Under the Pillow?
Placing laurel leaves under the pillow is an ancient method often forgotten in modern times. However, this simple and natural practice can offer many benefits for those seeking restful sleep and peace of mind. Here’s how this ancient custom works and why it deserves to be rediscovered.
1. A Calm Sleep
One of the primary benefits of placing laurel leaves under the pillow is its calming effect on the mind and body. Laurel is known for its soothing properties, helping to reduce anxiety and stress. By placing it under your pillow, you create an environment conducive to relaxation, making it easier to fall asleep and enjoy a deeper rest.
2. Anti-Stress Action
Laurel leaves contain essential oils with relaxing properties that, when inhaled during the night, can help reduce the production of cortisol, the stress hormone. Laurel also promotes the production of serotonin, a neurotransmitter involved in mood regulation and stress management. By gently inhaling the aroma of laurel, you can calm your mind and relieve emotional tension.
3. Longer and More Restorative Sleep
The subtle aroma of laurel has a positive effect on the nervous system, promoting deeper, more restorative sleep. It is well known that the quality of sleep plays a crucial role in overall well-being. By reducing stress and fostering complete relaxation, laurel can help you sleep longer and enjoy better-quality rest.
4. Emotional Balance
Laurel is also an excellent ally for emotional balance. During periods of stress or worry, simply placing a laurel leaf under the pillow can provide immediate relief. It creates an environment that helps soothe emotions, allowing you to better manage your concerns and unwind before falling asleep.
How to Use Laurel Leaves to Improve Sleep
Using laurel leaves under the pillow is simple and requires no complicated preparation. Here are the steps to follow to enjoy the benefits of this ancient custom:
- Choose Fresh or Dried Leaves: You can use either fresh or dried laurel leaves. Dried leaves are more convenient because they are easier to store, but fresh leaves may have a more intense aroma.
- Place the Leaves Under the Pillow: Take a few laurel leaves (around 3 to 5 depending on the size of your pillow) and place them directly under your pillow, or place them in a small fabric pouch that you can slip under your pillow. You can even tie them together with a small piece of string to keep them bundled.
- Breathe in the Soothing Aroma: Allow the aroma of the laurel to diffuse into your room overnight. This will create a calm, peaceful atmosphere that promotes restful sleep.
- Renew the Leaves: If you are using fresh leaves, it may be helpful to replace them every few days. Dried leaves can last longer, but if the aroma starts to fade, you can replace them with fresh ones.
Conclusion: A Simple and Natural Remedy
Laurel under the pillow is a simple yet effective practice for improving the quality of your sleep and reducing stress. Its relaxing properties, combined with its medicinal benefits, make it a natural solution for those seeking better well-being on a daily basis. By rediscovering this old custom, you can benefit from the soothing energy of laurel and incorporate it into your routine for more peaceful and restorative nights.
In summary, laurel is a true natural treasure that deserves to be incorporated into our daily lives, not only for its medicinal benefits but also for its positive effects on sleep and overall well-being. Why not revive this ancient tradition of grandparents and enjoy the benefits of laurel to achieve a deeper, more restful sleep?
