How bad is it to eat bay leaves?

Question

I've read that you shouldn't eat them but absent mindedly forgot to take two out before I blended the soup and there's no sign of them now. The soup tastes delicious ;o0

Answer 1

You're not meant to eat them, but I don't think you should dwell on it, its blended anyway. What's done is done, just enjoy your soup and make sure u don't do that next time :)

Answer 2

Bay leaves possess narcotic properties, but you really need to digest a few before they have any derogatory effect.
They were famously used by the Greek oracles in the temple at Delphi to induce trance like states for visions, etc.

Answer 3

Never thought of it.... I cook with it but always take the leaves out because they are so big. I also make a tea with the leaves when I have an upset stomach.

Answer 4

True Bay or American Bay Laural?

Neither will hurt you.

The true bay has a sweet flavor I like.

As with all herbs that I can, I grow my own (both types). Alsways use fresh herbs if you can.

Answer 5

Bay leaves aren't poisonous, but they never soften, so eating one would be a chore. If you get one in your mouth, remove it as you would a fish bone and continue to enjoy your meal.

Answer 6

You are not supposed to eat them because they're very easy to choke on or do damage going down.. If you haven't felt anything by now, they probably went down without problems and are right now getting *due process.* (^_^)

Answer 7

The reason is they have sharp little points on them but you problably blended them so it should be no problem.

Answer 8

if they wernt edible they wouldnt be used as a herb they will do you no harm I use fresh bay leaves in a salad

Answer 9

It won't hurt you or whoever ate them. bay leaves are primarily to add flavor but won't harm you if you accidently eat one or two.

Answer 10

They are bitter and hard to chew but will not hurt you or the soup.