Bay leaves and cinnamon are two aromatic spices that have been used in traditional cooking and herbal preparations for generations. When steeped together, they create a warm, fragrant tea that can be enjoyed after a meal or as part of a relaxing daily routine.
Both ingredients contain plant compounds that have been studied for their potential effects on blood sugar, cholesterol, inflammation, and digestion. However, a homemade bay leaf and cinnamon tea should not be considered a treatment for diabetes, high cholesterol, gout, arthritis, or other medical conditions. Evidence for these effects in humans is limited, and the results from studies of concentrated extracts cannot automatically be applied to a cup of tea.
Bay Leaf and Cinnamon Tea Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 dried bay leaves
- 1 small cinnamon stick
- 2 cups water
- 1 teaspoon honey, optional
- A small slice of fresh ginger, optional
- A squeeze of lemon, optional
Step 1: Prepare the water
Pour two cups of water into a small saucepan and bring it to a gentle boil.
Step 2: Add the bay leaves
Add two dried bay leaves to the water. Use culinary bay leaves from a reliable food source rather than unidentified leaves collected outdoors.
Step 3: Add the cinnamon
Place one small cinnamon stick into the saucepan.
A cinnamon stick is preferable to using a large quantity of powdered cinnamon because it is easier to control the amount.
Step 4: Simmer
Reduce the heat and gently simmer for approximately 5–10 minutes.
This allows the water to absorb the aromatic compounds from the spices.
Step 5: Let it steep
Turn off the heat, cover the saucepan, and let the tea stand for another 5 minutes.
Step 6: Strain
Remove the bay leaves and cinnamon stick before drinking.
Do not chew or swallow whole bay leaves, as they remain tough and can pose a choking hazard.
Step 7: Add flavor
If desired, add a little honey, lemon, or a thin slice of ginger.
For people watching their blood sugar, leaving out the honey keeps the drink free of added sugar.
Can It Lower Blood Sugar?
See more on the next page
