Indian Laurel is scientifically known as Litsea Glutinosa. Some call it puso-puso, batikuling, purikit, and pondspice. This plant that grows up to 20 meters can be found in the Philippines, Malaya, Tropical Australia, and Southern China. Traditionally, Indian laurel has been used as a medicine for some diseases.
Studies have found that this plant possesses important chemicals such as aporphine, oleic acid, phytochemicals, and Litsea Lactone C and D. Moreover, it also has polyphenols, flavonoids, tannins, alkaloids, and essential oils, which are all the reasons behind the plant’s numerous health benefits. Its leaves, roots, and bark possess various medicinal properties such as antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties.
Medicinal Uses Of Indian Laurel
Eases Arthritis And Rheumatism
Rheumatism and arthritis are both associated with joint pain and inflammation as well as with a drastic reduction of blood supply to the affected areas. When applied externally, Indian laurel can ease pain, reduce inflammation, and improve blood circulation to the affected part of the body.
Ease Diarrhea
Add 6 grams each of Indian laurel root and turmeric root to 150 ml boiling water. Boil for 10 minutes, strain, cool down, and drink. To ensure faster healing, drink 50 ml of this infusion twice a day for three days.
Ease Painful Menstruation
Indian Laurel’s emmenagogue and antispasmodic properties help women suffering from painful menstruation. It can stimulate the flow of blood to the pelvis and uterus and improves fertility levels in women. Additionally, the herb can also ease vaginal infections due to the anti-microbial and anti-bacterial properties of its leaves and bark.
Heals Sunburns
Certain parts of the herb, such as its leaves and bark, have anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and anti-oxidative properties which are all beneficial to heal the itching, redness, and rashes caused by sunburns. This remedy can be applied in the form of poultice and being a natural emollient, Indian laurel prevents the skin from drying out and cracking once exposed to sunlight.
Gets Rid Of Various Skin Disorders
Indian laurel is perfect for those who have problems with acne, rashes, burns, rosacea, and skin blemishes. Thanks to its antioxidant, anti-microbial, anti-inflammatory, and analgesic properties.
Eases Symptoms Of Dermatitis, Psoriasis, And Scabies
Psoriasis, scabies, and dermatitis are skin conditions that cause annoying symptoms. Due to these skin disorders, a person experiences intensely itchy rashes on the affected area.
Indian laurel ease itchiness associated with these conditions. It has antioxidants that scavenge free radicals, thereby ensuring faster healing. Also, its anti-inflammatory properties help reduce swelling and redness in the area.
Helps In Blood Clotting
Studies suggest that Indian laurel can help ease hemorrhage. Applying it topically can help curb external bleeding.
Aids In Digestion
Indian Laurel possesses chemical compounds that can boost digestive power. It can help ease nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and dysentery, If you are suffering from inflammatory bowel diseases, you can drink an infusion made of five grams each of Indian Laurel roots and turmeric roots. Steep the roots in 150 ml water, strain, and drink for a period of two weeks for best results.
Good For Bruises And Wounds
When applied topically on wounds, the leaves and bark of Indian laurel can provide relief from pain and prevent further infections. Thanks to its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory nature.
Helps With Insomnia
The leaves and bark of this herb have innate sedative properties which offer relief from insomnia.
A Remedy For Impotency
According to research, several men have been claiming that regular consumption of Indian Laurel can help treat impotence.
Can Be A Treatment For HIV/AIDS
Calanolide A, a chemical compound present in Indian Laurel, was found to be a potential remedy to eases HIV/AIDS infection.