Bay leaves are available whole—either fresh or dried—or ground into a powder. They have a floral and herbal scent reminiscent of oregano and thyme and are used more often than any other herb.
 
Bay leaves can be used in many types of cuisines, from Spanish and French to Indian and Thai. They are used when braising meat, making stock, and are also a common ingredient in pickling brines.
 
Bay leaf tea can help ease bouts of upset stomach. The tea is also very aromatic, which can help relieve sinus pressure or stuffy nose.  They’re sometimes used in spice mixes—sparingly, because their flavor is extra-strong when ground—and pickling spices.