What is laurel leaf tea good for? The Health Benefits Explained

December 22, 2025 •

4 min read

Bay laurel (Laurus nobilis), the source of culinary bay leaves, has been used in traditional medicine for thousands of years across Mediterranean and Asian cultures. Drinking an infusion of these leaves, commonly known as laurel leaf tea, offers numerous potential health benefits, including digestive support, antioxidant protection, and anti-inflammatory effects.

Quick Summary

This guide examines the potential health benefits of laurel leaf tea, detailing its antioxidant properties, digestive aid, anti-inflammatory and calming effects, and precautions for safe consumption. It also covers how to prepare this aromatic herbal tea at home.

Key Points

Antioxidant Rich: Laurel leaf tea contains high levels of antioxidants, including polyphenols and eugenol, which help combat oxidative stress and protect cells from damage.
Supports Digestion: It aids digestion by soothing upset stomachs, reducing bloating and gas, and stimulating the digestive tract for detoxification.
Possesses Anti-Inflammatory Effects: Compounds like eugenol and linalool provide anti-inflammatory benefits that may help with conditions such as arthritis.
Manages Blood Sugar: Preliminary studies suggest the tea may help regulate blood sugar and improve insulin function, beneficial for those with type 2 diabetes.
Promotes Relaxation: Linalool in laurel leaves has sedative properties that can help reduce anxiety and promote better sleep.
Boosts Immunity: Rich in vitamins A and C, along with antibacterial and antifungal properties, it helps strengthen the immune system.
Cautions: Always remove whole leaves before drinking, as they are indigestible. Consult a doctor if pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking diabetes or sedative medication.

The Health Benefits of Laurel Leaf Tea

Laurel leaf tea, derived from the leaves of the bay laurel tree (Laurus nobilis), is more than just a fragrant addition to savory dishes. When steeped in hot water, the leaves release a variety of beneficial compounds, including vitamins (A, C, and B vitamins), minerals (iron, potassium, manganese), and powerful antioxidants like flavonoids, lignans, and eugenol. These components are responsible for the tea's traditional medicinal applications and modern-day wellness claims.

Digestive Support and Wellness

One of the most well-documented uses of laurel leaf tea is for supporting digestive health. The aromatic compounds within the leaves can help soothe an upset stomach, reduce bloating and gas, and aid in the digestion of food. The tea's properties are also known to help eliminate toxins from the body and stimulate the digestive tract. A common folk remedy involves a tea with bay leaves and caraway to boost metabolism and assist liver enzymes, making it a valuable post-meal beverage.

Anti-inflammatory and Antioxidant Properties

Chronic inflammation is at the root of many diseases. Laurel leaves contain compounds like eugenol and linalool, which have been shown to have potent anti-inflammatory effects. By inhibiting nitric oxide production, they can help prevent inflammatory processes throughout the body. The high concentration of antioxidants helps protect cells from damage caused by free radicals and oxidative stress. This protective effect can potentially lower the risk of chronic diseases, including certain types of cancer, and can slow the cellular aging process.

Blood Sugar and Cardiovascular Health

Research suggests that laurel leaf tea may offer benefits for managing blood sugar levels, particularly for individuals with type 2 diabetes. Studies have shown that consuming a few grams of ground bay leaves daily for a short period could help improve insulin function and lower glucose and cholesterol levels. Furthermore, the presence of rutin and caffeic acids in bay leaves supports heart health by reinforcing cardiac vessel walls and reducing LDL ("bad") cholesterol levels. Laurel is also a good source of potassium, a mineral crucial for maintaining healthy blood pressure.

Calming and Sleep-Inducing Effects

For centuries, laurel leaves have been used to promote a sense of calm and relaxation. The compound linalool is noted for its sedative effects and may help with sleep and insomnia. Drinking a warm cup of laurel leaf tea before bed can help reduce anxiety and promote a more restful night's sleep. The tea's soothing aroma also contributes to its overall calming effect.

Respiratory and Immune Support

In folk medicine, laurel leaf tea was often used to treat respiratory ailments such as coughs and congestion. The tea's vapors can help clear nasal passages and relieve sinus pressure. The antibacterial and antifungal properties of bay leaves, combined with vitamins A, C, and B6, can help strengthen the immune system and protect against bacterial and viral infections.

Comparison Table: Laurel Leaf Tea vs. Other Common Herbal Teas


Feature	Laurel Leaf Tea	Chamomile Tea	Green Tea	Ginger Tea
Primary Benefit	Digestive aid, anti-inflammatory	Calming, sleep aid	Antioxidant powerhouse	Digestive aid, anti-inflammatory
Flavor Profile	Herbal, slightly bitter, aromatic	Floral, mild, earthy	Vegetal, grassy, some bitter notes	Spicy, pungent, warm
Key Compounds	Eugenol, Linalool, Polyphenols	Apigenin, Matricin	EGCG, Catechins, Caffeine	Gingerol, Shogaol
Contains Caffeine?	No	No	Yes	No
Best For	Digestion, inflammation, sleep support	Anxiety, insomnia	Metabolism, energy	Nausea, inflammation, colds
Preparation Notes	Simmer leaves for a robust flavor	Steep flowers in hot water	Steep leaves at lower temperature	Steep fresh or dried root slices

How to Prepare Laurel Leaf Tea

Making laurel leaf tea is straightforward, whether you use fresh or dried leaves. For a simple preparation, simmer 2-3 dried or 4-6 fresh leaves in a saucepan with water for about 10 minutes. After simmering, let the tea steep for another 5 minutes with the heat off and the pot covered to allow the essential oils and flavors to fully infuse. Strain the leaves before serving. You can enhance the flavor with optional additions like a cinnamon stick, a few cloves, or a slice of fresh ginger. A touch of honey can sweeten the slightly bitter, astringent taste.

Important Considerations and Safety

While laurel leaf tea from Laurus nobilis is generally safe for consumption, some important precautions should be taken. Never consume the actual, intact bay leaves, as they are tough and indigestible and can pose a choking hazard or cause internal damage. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should consult a healthcare provider before use due to insufficient safety information. People with diabetes or those on sedative medication should also consult a doctor, as bay leaf can affect blood sugar levels and enhance drowsiness. It is also crucial to use bay laurel (Laurus nobilis) specifically, as other ornamental plants commonly called "laurel" (like mountain laurel or cherry laurel) are toxic.

Conclusion

Laurel leaf tea is a simple and fragrant beverage that carries a wide array of potential health benefits. Rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, it has been traditionally and is now scientifically linked to improved digestion, better blood sugar management, enhanced heart health, and calming effects for anxiety and sleep. By understanding its uses and practicing proper preparation and safety, you can enjoy a comforting cup of this ancient herbal remedy as part of a healthy lifestyle. Its legacy as a symbol of victory in ancient times is now complemented by its modern reputation as a victor for well-being. For more information on the phytochemical components and biological activities of bay leaf, consider reviewing scientific literature such as the article from PMC.

Frequently Asked Questions

Laurel leaf tea and bay leaf tea are typically the same beverage, as the culinary herb bay leaf comes from the bay laurel tree (Laurus nobilis). The terms are often used interchangeably.

Yes, in moderation, laurel leaf tea is considered safe for most people when brewed correctly. Excessive consumption, however, can lead to side effects like drowsiness or gastrointestinal discomfort. As with any herbal remedy, it is wise to consult a healthcare professional before incorporating it into your daily routine.

Some anecdotal evidence suggests laurel leaf tea can help with weight management by improving digestion and providing a feeling of fullness. However, it should be part of a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle, not considered a magic bullet for weight loss.

Yes, the antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds in laurel leaf tea, such as eugenol and linalool, can promote healthier hair follicles and a less irritated scalp, potentially reducing hair loss and encouraging growth.

To make a tea for sleep, simmer 2-3 dried bay leaves in a cup of water for about 10 minutes, then steep, strain, and drink before bed. The linalool in the leaves has sedative properties that help promote relaxation.

Whole bay leaves should not be eaten because they are tough, fibrous, and cannot be properly digested by the body. Ingesting them could cause them to get lodged in the throat or cause internal damage, including potentially piercing the intestinal lining.

There are different types of plants with "laurel" in their name, but only the bay laurel (Laurus nobilis) is safe for consumption as a tea. Other species, like mountain laurel and cherry laurel, are toxic and should never be ingested.