Re: [CH] Bay Tree
Tara Deen (tara@es.usyd.edu.au)
Thu, 25 May 2000 08:55:56 +1000
The culinary and pest-preventing uses of bay leaves have already been
covered. Bay also has a great smell. Try throwing a few on an open
fireplace in winter for the smell, which will also act as a natural air
freshener (helping remove cigarette smoke or dog, smells, for example)
or soak some in water and smoke on the BBQ with thyme and/or rosemary
for an incredible, very Mediterranean flavour in your food. Bay twigs
are good for this, too. Bay leaves are an important part of bouquet
garni, used a lot in northern Indian curries..
Medicinally, bay leaves are packed with digestive and hallucinogenic
properties. Tea made from bay leaves stimulates the digestive system and
helps against flatulence. Gargling bay leaf tea helps sore throats.
They're a stimulant, and can make food a very sensuous experience!
Tara
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Tara Deen
School of Earth Sciences
Division of Geology and Geophysics
Building FO5
University of Sydney NSW 2006
Phone: 61-2-9351 4271
Fax: 61-2-9351 0184
email: tara@es.usyd.edu.au
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