Truly healthy: Why bay leaf and lemon are a power duo in tea

Bay leaf and lemon in tea may sound unusual, but it offers many health benefits. Here's how the ingredients work together for your well-being.

Tea is a globally popular beverage and is practically celebrated in many cultures. This is not only due to its warming properties and delicious taste, but also, and perhaps even more importantly, because of its various beneficial and even healing effects.

In Sicilian cuisine, the "Canarino" variety is particularly valued for its digestive properties.

Bay leaf and lemon: What's in this combination?

Bay leaf and lemon contain several natural active ingredients that are particularly effective when combined. The essential oils in bay leaves are known for their digestive benefits. They can help support digestion and reduce bloating. Furthermore, bay leaves, thanks to their phenols and vitamins C and E, have antioxidant properties that help combat free radicals in the body and protect cells from damage.

Lemons offer their own unique benefits. The natural acid in this citrus fruit has a mild antibacterial effect and can help strengthen the immune system. Furthermore , lemons are a true vitamin C powerhouse, containing over 53 mg of vitamin C per 100 grams of fruit. This vitamin acts as an antioxidant and plays a crucial role in the activity of certain enzymes, including some essential liver enzymes. It helps the body transform toxic substances so they can be effectively eliminated, thus indirectly contributing to this detoxification process.

The combination of these two ingredients – bay leaf and lemon – creates a drink that not only smells and tastes wonderful, but can also improve well-being.

Preparation of the tea: Recipe for Canarini

According to "The Sicilian Cook", preparing a tea with bay leaf and lemon is simple and requires only a few ingredients.

For this recipe, you will need:

• Water
• 1 bay leaf
• Zest of half a washed organic lemon

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Bring the water to a boil in a small saucepan along with the bay leaf and lemon peel.
2. Let the mixture simmer gently for about 15 minutes.
3. Pour off the tea and serve it hot.
4. You can sweeten to taste with honey.

Note: Vitamin C is very sensitive to heat. Therefore, add more lemon juice – if desired – only once the water has reached a drinkable temperature. Experts recommend around 40 degrees Celsius.

Enjoy it, but don't overestimate it.

While the combination of bay leaf and lemon has many beneficial properties, it's important to note that it's not a miracle cure. Its digestive, antioxidant, and antibacterial effects can support well-being, but they do not replace medical treatment. Individuals with specific health concerns should consult a doctor before using such home remedies.

Furthermore, care should be taken to use high-quality and unprocessed ingredients to achieve the best health benefits. Enjoying this tea can complement a healthy diet and lifestyle and promote overall well-being.

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