Dried Tez Patta | Whole Bay Leaves | Essential Fragrant Herb

Health & Nutritional Benefits

• Digestive Wellness: Contains enzymes that help break down proteins and facilitate faster digestion, reducing symptoms of heartburn and flatulence.

• Blood Sugar Support: Research suggests that bay leaves may help improve insulin function and lower glucose levels.

• Heart Health: Rich in caffeic acid and rutin—compounds that strengthen capillary walls in the heart and help manage cholesterol.

• Stress Relief: When simmered, the leaves release linalool, which is known to help lower stress hormone levels and promote a sense of calm.

• Immune Support: A good source of Vitamin A and Vitamin C, vital for maintaining a healthy immune system and clear vision.

Nutritional Values (Approx. per 100g)

Uses

• The Foundation of Tadka: Always add whole leaves to hot oil at the very beginning of cooking to release their fat-soluble aromatic compounds.

• Rice & Biryanis: Simmer with Basmati rice to give it a “restaurant-style” fragrance that is subtle yet unmistakable.

• Slow-Cooked Stews: Ideal for dals, soups, and meat curries where the leaf has time to slowly infuse the liquid with its earthy notes.

• Herbal Detox Tea: Boil a leaf with a slice of ginger and a stick of cinnamon for a refreshing, metabolism-boosting morning tea.

• Natural Pantry Guard: Place a few dry leaves in your containers of flour or rice to naturally repel pantry pests and insects.

Storage Instructions

• Avoid Moisture: Dampness will cause the leaves to lose their crispness and develop mold. Keep in a bone-dry airtight jar.

• Protect from Light: Direct sunlight can turn the vibrant green-brown leaves into a dull grey, indicating a loss of flavor.

• Handle Gently: While dried leaves are naturally brittle, try to keep them whole; a whole leaf is easier to remove from a dish before serving.

Fun Facts

• Three-Vein Secret: You can tell a true Indian Tez Patta (Cinnamomum tamala) from a Mediterranean Bay Leaf by looking for the three veins running along its length.

• Bark & Leaf: The tree that gives us Tez Patta is a close relative of the Cinnamon tree, which is why it has a slightly sweet, cinnamon-like undertone.

• Ancient Crown: In ancient Greece and Rome, bay leaves were woven into wreaths to crown victors, scholars, and kings as a symbol of high status.