PERUVIAN BAY LEAVE (LAUREL) AND ITS HEALING SOUL.

There are many different thpes of plants whose leaves are referred to as 'bay leaves', but the true bay leaf is scientifically known as 'Laurus Nobilis'. They are characterized by woodiness, aromatic parts, and a single strand of conducting tissues continuing from the stem into the leaf.
This Peruvian Laurel is an evergreen shrub or small tree that require, in its forest habitat, a warm subtropical to tropical climate that is cool but also frost-free or with only very slight winter frosts not below -4C, and with high summer heat, rainfall, and humidity.
Peruvian Laurel is at its best when the leaves are well-drained, because of its growing in slightly acidic soils and enhance its rich organic matter. The drained laurel leaves can be stored for months.
Traditionally, the laurel leaves are picked and dried slowly under the shade away from direct sunlight in order to retain their volatile essential oils.
Pleasantly and aromatic, the thick and leathery bay-laurel leave, is one of the well-recognized peruvian culinary leaf-spices in use since the ancient pre-inca time. Just using one of them when added to the peruvian recipes, it gives off a pleasing and sweet aroma. It can be used to flavor soups and stews, but the most common use of the leaf that is for a delicious sauce made with ground beef, onion, red pepper, tomatoes, celery, garlic, carrots, and one whole laurel leaf. It must be removed from the sauce before serving it with noodles of any kind.
Laurel leaf has a very strong effect on the gastrointestinal system because of its organic compounds.
The laurel leaves are a very rich source of vitamin A, B and C. Also they are a good source of minerals like copper, potassium, calcium, manganese, iron, selenium, zinc, and magnesium.
Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) is one of the powerful natural anti-oxidant that help to remove harmful free radicals from the body. Ascorbic acid acts as an immune buster, wound healing, and anti-viral effects.
Folic acid is important in DNA synthesis because of its folates and when given during the preconception period, they can help prevent tube defects in the baby. But during pregnancy, the consumption should be maintained at the minimum since the chemical compounds in them may cause abortion.
Vitamin A is also a natural antioxidant and is essential for healthy visual sight. It is also required for maintaining mucous and skin health. Also it helps to protect from lung and oral cavity cancers.
B-complex groups of vitamins such as niacin, pyridoxine, pantothenic acid and riboflavin, help in enzyme synthesis, nervous system function, and regulating body metabolism.
Potassium is an important component of cell and body fluids that helps control heart rate and blood pressure. Manganese and copper are used by the body as co-factors for the antioxidant enzyme, superoxide dismutase. Iron is essential for red blood cell production and as a co-factor for cytochrome oxidase enzymes.
The red-white-red Peruvian flag contains a coat of arms that its shield is framed by one wreath of palm and laurel branches and surmounted by another.