Tejpatta
Tejpatta
Tejpatta, also known as Indian Bay Leaf, is used to impart a characteristic flavor in various cuisines. It gives a warm, peppery, clove-cinnamon like flavor to food.
Tejpatta is beneficial for diabetes as it helps to manage blood glucose levels by enhancing insulin secretion due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity. It is also good for heart health as it helps to lower the bad cholesterol and manages blood pressure by removing excessive sodium due to its diuretic property. Tejpatta might also help prevent stomach ulcers by reducing the free radical damage caused to stomach cells as it is rich in antioxidants and has gastroprotective properties. Adding Tejpatta leaves to food helps in improving digestion and also prevents gas and flatulence due to its carminative property.
Tejpatta oil is beneficial for managing rheumatoid arthritis due to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activity. Massaging joints with Tejpatta oil helps to get relief from pain and swelling.
You can also apply Tejpatta oil on skin to help prevent wound infections and manage boils due to its antibacterial and antimicrobial properties[1].
Tejpatta is beneficial for diabetes as it helps to manage blood glucose levels by enhancing insulin secretion due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity. It is also good for heart health as it helps to lower the bad cholesterol and manages blood pressure by removing excessive sodium due to its diuretic property. Tejpatta might also help prevent stomach ulcers by reducing the free radical damage caused to stomach cells as it is rich in antioxidants and has gastroprotective properties. Adding Tejpatta leaves to food helps in improving digestion and also prevents gas and flatulence due to its carminative property.
Tejpatta oil is beneficial for managing rheumatoid arthritis due to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activity. Massaging joints with Tejpatta oil helps to get relief from pain and swelling.
You can also apply Tejpatta oil on skin to help prevent wound infections and manage boils due to its antibacterial and antimicrobial properties[1].
What are the synonyms of Tejpatta?
Cinnamomum tamala, Tejpat, Tejpata, Vazhanayila, Tamalpatra, Biryani aaku, Bagharakku, Tamala patra, Develee, Tejpatra, Tamalapatra, Dalchini Ele, Dalchini pan, Tajpatra, Karuvapatta patram, Tamalpatra, Tejapatra, Tajpater, Lavangapatri, Akupatri, Tezpat.
What is the source of Tejpatta?
Plant Based
Benefits of Tejpatta
Modern Science View
Tejpatta is useful in diabetes due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Tejpatta prevents the damage of pancreatic beta cells and enhances insulin secretion. Thus, it lowers blood sugar levels[9].
Ayurvedic View
Diabetes also known as Madhumeha is due to an aggravation of Vata and impaired digestion. Impaired digestion leads to an accumulation of Ama (toxic remains in the body due to improper digestion) in the pancreatic cells and impairs the function of insulin. Regular use of Tejpatta in your diet helps to control high blood sugar levels. This is because Tejpatta (Indian Bayleaf) has Ushna (hot) potency which promotes healthy digestive fire and reduces Ama.
Tips:
1. Take ¼-½ teaspoon Tejpatta powder.
2. Swallow it with water after lunch and dinner to maintain a normal blood sugar level.
Tips:
1. Take ¼-½ teaspoon Tejpatta powder.
2. Swallow it with water after lunch and dinner to maintain a normal blood sugar level.
Modern Science View
Not enough scientific evidence is available to support the role of Tejpatta in common cold but a study states that it might help manage common cold[2].
Ayurvedic View
Tejpatta is an effective herb for managing common cold. It controls cough, releases mucus and clears the air passages, thus allowing the patient to breathe freely. It also controls frequent sneezing. This is due to its Kapha balancing property.
Tips:
1. Take ¼-½ teaspoon Tejpatta powder.
2. Swallow it with water or honey after lunch and dinner to manage the symptoms of common cold.
Tips:
1. Take ¼-½ teaspoon Tejpatta powder.
2. Swallow it with water or honey after lunch and dinner to manage the symptoms of common cold.
Modern Science View
There is not enough scientific evidence available to support the role of Tejpatta (Indian bayleaf) in case of asthma.
Ayurvedic View
Tejpatta helps to control the symptoms of asthma and gives relief in case of breathlessness. According to Ayurveda, the main doshas involved in asthma are Vata and Kapha. An aggravated Vata dosha imbalances Kapha dosha in the lungs. This creates an obstruction in the air passages which makes breathing difficult.
This condition is known as Swas Roga (asthma). Tejpatta helps to balance Kapha and Vata dosha. It helps to remove excessive mucus from the lungs by melting it due to its Ushna (hot) property. This helps in reducing the symptoms of asthma.
Tips:
1. Take ¼-½ teaspoon Tejpatta powder.
2. Swallow it with water or honey after lunch and dinner to manage the symptoms of asthma.
This condition is known as Swas Roga (asthma). Tejpatta helps to balance Kapha and Vata dosha. It helps to remove excessive mucus from the lungs by melting it due to its Ushna (hot) property. This helps in reducing the symptoms of asthma.
Tips:
1. Take ¼-½ teaspoon Tejpatta powder.
2. Swallow it with water or honey after lunch and dinner to manage the symptoms of asthma.
Modern Science View
Although there is not enough scientific evidence available to support the role of Tejpatta for bad breath; it might help manage bad breath.
How effective is Tejpatta?
Insufficient evidence
Asthma, Bad odor from mouth, Common cold, Diabetes
Precautions when using Tejpatta
Advice from Experts
Important
Ayurvedic View
Tejpatta (Indian Bayleaf) might lower the level of blood sugar. So it might interfere with blood sugar levels before and after any surgical operations. So, it is generally advisable to avoid the use of Tejpatta at least 2 weeks before surgery[2].
Allergy
Modern Science View
Tejpatta may cause irritation to the skin. So it is generally advisable to consume Tejpatta in low doses. It is also advisable to avoid its use if you are already prone to allergies[13].
Breastfeeding
Modern Science View
Although not enough scientific evidence available to support the role of Tejpatta while breastfeeding, although it might be safe in food amounts. So it is generally advisable to consult your doctor before taking Tejpatta while breastfeeding[2].
Patients with diabetes
Modern Science View
Tejpatta might lower blood sugar level. So it is generally advisable to monitor your blood sugar level regularly if you have diabetes[2].
Pregnancy
Modern Science View
Not enough scientific evidence is available to support the role of Tejpatta during pregnancy, although it might be safe in food amounts. So it is generally advisable to consult your doctor before taking Tejpatta during pregnancy[2].
Recommended Dosage of Tejpatta
- Tejpatta Leaves - 1-2 leaves or as per your requirement.
- Tejpatta Powder - ¼ to ½ teaspoon twice a day with honey.
- Tejpatta Capsule - 1 to 2 capsule twice day.
How to use Tejpatta
1. Raw dried Tejpatta leaf
a. Take 1-2 raw dried Tejpatta leaf.
b. Use it while cooking to add flavor and taste in food.
2. Tejpatta Powder
a. Take ¼-½ teaspoon Tejpatta powder.
b. Swallow it with water after lunch and dinner to maintain normal blood sugar level.
a. Take 1-2 raw dried Tejpatta leaf.
b. Use it while cooking to add flavor and taste in food.
2. Tejpatta Powder
a. Take ¼-½ teaspoon Tejpatta powder.
b. Swallow it with water after lunch and dinner to maintain normal blood sugar level.
Benefits of Tejpatta
Modern Science View
Tejpatta oil is rich with constituents having skin whitening property. These constituents show good enzyme activity that helps in melanin production. Tejpatta is also beneficial against boils and wound infections[7-9].
Ayurvedic View
Tejpatta or its oil is good for skin disorders because it helps to control the symptoms of skin disease like eczema when applied on the affected area. Tejpatta has the property of Ropan (healing) that helps in quick healing of skin.
Tips:
1. Take 2-5 drops of Tejpatta oil or as per your requirement.
2. Mix with Coconut oil.
3. Apply on the affected area 2-3 hours before taking shower.
4. Wash it with cool water.
5. Repeat 2-3 times a week to get rid of the symptoms of skin disease.
Tips:
1. Take 2-5 drops of Tejpatta oil or as per your requirement.
2. Mix with Coconut oil.
3. Apply on the affected area 2-3 hours before taking shower.
4. Wash it with cool water.
5. Repeat 2-3 times a week to get rid of the symptoms of skin disease.
How effective is Tejpatta?
Insufficient evidence
Skin disorders
Precautions when using Tejpatta
Allergy
Ayurvedic View
Tepatta oil might cause allergic reactions when applied. So it is generally advisable to use Tejpatta oil under medical supervision only[13].
Recommended Dosage of Tejpatta
- Tejpatta Oil - 2-5 drops or as per your requirement.
- Tejpatta Powder - ½ to 1 teaspoon or as per your requirement.
How to use Tejpatta
1. Tejpatta Toothpaste
a. Take ½-1 teaspoon of Tejpatta powder.
b. Add honey to form a paste.
c. Massage the teeth and gums gently with this paste.
d. Rinse your mouth with fresh water.
e. Use this twice a day for whiter teeth and to get rid of swollen gums.
2. Tejpatta Oil
a. Take 2-5 drops of Tejpatta oil.
b. Mix it with sesame oil and apply on the affected area.
d. Use it 1-2 times a day to get rid of swelling and inflammation.
a. Take ½-1 teaspoon of Tejpatta powder.
b. Add honey to form a paste.
c. Massage the teeth and gums gently with this paste.
d. Rinse your mouth with fresh water.
e. Use this twice a day for whiter teeth and to get rid of swollen gums.
2. Tejpatta Oil
a. Take 2-5 drops of Tejpatta oil.
b. Mix it with sesame oil and apply on the affected area.
d. Use it 1-2 times a day to get rid of swelling and inflammation.
Frequently asked questions
Ayurvedic View
Generally Bay leaves should be removed from the cooked food before eating. This is because it is hard to digest and also has sharp edges which can get stuck in the throat.
Modern Science View
Bay leaves can be used in fresh, dried and powdered form. It can be used as a spice in cooking and to make tea. It can also be burnt indoors to release compounds that are beneficial for health. Bay leaf powder can also be applied on the skin to manage skin infections.
Modern Science View
Bay leaf and Basil have similar appearance but different properties and uses in cooking. Fresh Bay leaf does not have much flavour but once it has been dried it develops a woody bitter flavour. Fresh basil, on the other hand, has a strong mint flavour which becomes mild when dried.
Modern Science View
Tejpatta (Bay leaves) can be dried naturally by keeping them in direct sunlight. They can also be placed on a paper towel and put in the microwave for 2-3 minutes.
Modern Science View
Bay leaves are safe to be consumed. But there are certain Bay-like leaves which appear the same or have similar names and are toxic. These toxic bay-like leaves include Mountain Laurel and Cherry Laurel. They are leathery in appearance and all parts of their plant is toxic.
Modern Science View
Tejpatta has an unpleasant taste. If it is swallowed as a whole or in large pieces, it may cause choking of the digestive and respiratory tract.
Ayurvedic View
Generally Tejpatta (Bay leaf) should be removed from the cooked food before eating. This is because it is hard to digest and has sharp edges which may get stuck in your throat.
Modern Science View
Yes, you can burn Tejpatta also known as Indian Bayleaf. Tejpatta is used as a flavor or fragrance enhancer. The smoke of Tejpatta helps to calm the nervous system and improves mental activity. It also strengthens the immune system. This is due to the essential oils present in Tejpatta which is believed to exhibit a soothing effect on your body and mind when you burn them.
Tip:
1. Take 1 Tejpatta.
2. Light the leaf in an ashtray and leave it to burn for 10 minutes.
Tip:
1. Take 1 Tejpatta.
2. Light the leaf in an ashtray and leave it to burn for 10 minutes.
Modern Science View
Tejpatta is a natural cockroach repellent. It cannot kill the cockroach but the smell of the essential oils present in Tejpatta is unbearable for cockroach. This property of Tejpatta makes it a best and safest cockroach repellent.
Modern Science View
Adding Tejpatta in food is good as it prevents the spoilage of food caused due to fungal growth. This is due to its antifungal property[9].
Modern Science View
Tejpatta has anti-flatulent and carminative properties. It may be useful in the management of gastric disorders such as flatulence[5][6].
Ayurvedic View
Flatulence or gas is caused due to an imbalance of Vata and Pitta dosha. Low Pitta dosha and aggravated Vata dosha results in low digestive fire, thus impairing digestion. Impaired digestion leads to gas formation or flatulence. Tejpatta improves the digestive fire and prevents gas formation because of its Deepan (appetizer) property.
Tips:
1. Take 1-2 raw dried Tejpatta leaf.
2. Use it while cooking to add flavor and taste in food as well as to get rid of gas or flatulence.
Tips:
1. Take 1-2 raw dried Tejpatta leaf.
2. Use it while cooking to add flavor and taste in food as well as to get rid of gas or flatulence.
Modern Science View
Tejpatta or Indian Bayleaf help manage high cholesterol due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It lowers the level of total blood cholesterol, bad cholesterol (LDL) and triglycerides. The heart-healthy fats present in Tejpatta also improves the level of good cholesterol[9].
Ayurvedic View
High cholesterol is due to an imbalance of Pachak agni (digestive fire). Impaired digestion at the tissue level produces excess Ama (toxic remains in the body due to improper digestion). This causes the accumulation of bad cholesterol and blockage in the blood vessels.
Tejpatta helps to reduce Ama which is the prime cause of bad cholesterol. This is due to its Deepan (appetizer) and Pachan (digestive) properties.
Tejpatta helps to reduce Ama which is the prime cause of bad cholesterol. This is due to its Deepan (appetizer) and Pachan (digestive) properties.
Modern Science View
Yes, Tejpatta can prevent diarrhea by preventing the growth of microorganisms that causes diarrhea. This is due to its antimicrobial activity[9].
Modern Science View
Yes, Tejpatta is beneficial in case of ulcers. It inhibits the secretion of gastric acid which helps prevent gastric damage. The antioxidants present in Tejpatta protects the stomach from oxidative stress and reduces the risk of further damage[12].
Modern Science View
Yes, Tejpatta acts as a diuretic as it increases the production of urine. It also increases the concentration of potassium and sodium salts in the urine[11].
Modern Science View
Yes, Tejpatta provides protection to the liver due to its hepatoprotective activity. The antioxidants present in Tejpatta fights against the free radicals and prevent liver cell damage[13].
Ayurvedic View
Yes, Tejpatta protects the liver by improving digestion due to its Deepan (appetizer) and Pachan (digestive) properties. Tejpatta helps to accelerate the digestion process and reduces the load of the liver.
Modern Science View
Not enough scientific information is available to support the role of Tejpatta (Indian Bayleaf) in case of high blood pressure.
Modern Science View
Tejpatta helps in reducing fever due to its antipyretic activity. It lowers the body temperature and provides relief from fever[9].
Modern Science View
Not enough scientific information is available to support the role of Tejpatta against worm infestations. However some study states that Tejpatta shows antiparasitic activity that prevents the growth of parasites[9].
Ayurvedic View
Tejpatta helps to control intestinal worms. According to Ayurveda, worms are called as Krimi. The growth of worms is due to low Agni (weak digestive fire). Tejpatta helps to improve the digestive fire and destroy the ideal condition for the growth of worms. This is due to its Ushna (hot) nature.
Modern Science View
Tejpatta or Indian Bayleaf helps manage depression due to its anxiolytic activity. This activity reduces the severity, frequency, and duration of anxiety symptoms[9].
Ayurvedic View
Tejpatta or its oil is useful to manage the symptoms of depression. According to Ayurveda, Vata governs all the movements and actions of the body and nervous system respectively. Depression mainly occurs due to Vata imbalance.
Tejpatta oil helps to balance Vata and gives a calming effect on the nervous system when applied externally.
Tejpatta oil helps to balance Vata and gives a calming effect on the nervous system when applied externally.
Modern Science View
Yes, Tejpatta oil is found to be effective against Alzheimer’s diseases. It inhibits the activity of an enzyme (cholinesterase) that causes memory impairment. Thus, it helps in the management of memory loss in Alzheimer’s diseases[14].
Modern Science View
Tejpatta oil might help manage the symptoms of Rheumatoid arthritis. This is due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Certain constituents present in Tejpatta inhibits the activity of an inflammatory protein. This reduces joint pain and swelling associated with Rheumatoid arthritis[9].
Ayurvedic View
According to Ayurveda, the bones and joints are considered the site of Vata in the body. An imbalance in the Vata dosha causes joint pain in Rheumatism. A massage with Tejpatta oil helps to reduce joint pain due to its Vata balancing property.
Modern Science View
It is advisable not to use Tejpatta oil for children under two years. It can be used in the diluted form and under a doctor’s supervision[13].
References
- Sharma V, Rao LJ.An overview on chemical composition, bioactivity and processing of leaves of Cinnamomum tamala.Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr.2014;54(4):433-48.
- WebMD.Bay Leaf: Uses, Side effects, Doses, Interactions [Internet].Atlanta [last updated in 2016].
- Pandey AK, Mishra AK, Mishra A.Antifungal and antioxidative potential of oil and extracts derived from leaves of indian spice plant Cinnamomum tamala.Cell Mol Biol.2012;58(1):142-147.
- Gambhire MN, Juvekar AR, Wankhede, SS.Anti-inflammatory activity of aqueous extract of Cinnamomum tamala leaves by in vivo and in vitro methods.J Pharm Res.2009;2(9):1521-1524.
- Sharma G, Nautiyal AR.Cinnamomum tamala: A valuable tree from Himalayas.Int J Med Arom Plants.2011.1(1):1-4.
- Eswaran MB, Surendran S, Vijayakumar M et al.Gastroprotective activity of Cinnamomum tamala leaves on experimental gastric ulcers in rats.J Ethnopharmacol.2010;128(2):537-540.
- Rahman M, Khatun A, Islam MM et al.Evaluation of antimicrobial, cytotoxic, thrombolytic, diuretic properties and total phenolic content of Cinnamomum tamala.Int J Green Pharm.2013;7:236-243.
- Dandapat S, Kumar M, Kumar A et al.Antipathogenic efficacy of methanolic leaf extract of Cinnamomum tamala (Buch.-Ham)and Aegle marmelos (L.) with their nutritional potentiality.The Bioscan.2013;8(2):635-541.
- Upadhyay RK.Therapeutic and Pharmaceutical Potential of Cinnamomum Tamala.RRJPPS.2017;6(3):18-28.
- Mehta S, Purohit VK, Andola HC.Pharmacological activities of Cinnamomum tamala Nees and Eberm. And medical implication: A Review. Medicinal and aromatic plants.2014;3(4):2-6.
- Bendre AV, Tare MS, Kamble KV, et al. Diuretic activity of Cinnamomum Tamala.Research Journal of Pharmacy and Technology. 2010;3(1):289-290.
- Shah M, Panchal M. Ethnopharmacological properties of Cinnamomum Tamala- A review. 2010;5(3):141-144.
- Kumar S, Vasudeva N, Sharma S. Pharmacological and pharmacognostical of Cinnamomum tamala Nees & Eberm. JPRS.2012;5(1):480-484.
- Dalai MK, Bhadra S, Chaudhary SK, et al. Anti-cholinesterase potential of Cinnamomum tamala (Buch-Ham) T. Nees & Eberm. Leaves. Indian journal of traditional knowledge.2014;13(4):691-697.
Disclaimer
The content is purely informative and educational in nature and should not be construed as medical advice. Please use the content only in consultation with an appropriate certified medical or healthcare professional.