A familiar ingredient in Vietnamese cooking has recently gained surprising attention abroad — not for its flavor, but for its value. In the United States, this everyday leaf is being sold at a premium price, reaching $60–80 per kilogram, far higher than its cost in Vietnam.

A common culinary staple with unexpected global demand

Bay leaves, widely used in Vietnamese kitchens to season stews, curries, soups, and even pho broth, have quietly become a valuable export. Vietnam now supplies bay leaves to countries such as India, Japan, South Korea, the U.S., and several European markets.

According to Vietnam’s General Department of Customs, bay leaf exports reached USD 598,000 in the first quarter of 2025, marking a remarkable 332% increase compared to the same period in 2024.

While in Vietnam dried bay leaves cost around 50,000–70,000 đồng per 100 grams, U.S. retailers often sell them for 150,000–200,000 đồng per 100 grams — nearly triple the domestic price.

Health benefits of bay leaves

Bay leaves are rich in vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin B6, and essential minerals such as calcium, magnesium, copper, iron, zinc, and manganese. Beyond their culinary uses, bay leaves are considered a valuable medicinal herb with many potential health benefits.

1. Potential anti-cancer properties

Studies suggest that bay leaf extract may help inhibit the growth of cancer cells.
A 2023 study published in Chemical and Biological Technologies in Agriculture found that bay leaf essential oil could suppress the formation of liver cancer cells in mice.
Healthline notes that more research in humans is needed, but findings so far show promising cancer-preventive potential.

2. Helps regulate blood sugar

In vitro studies show that bay leaf extract may reduce insulin resistance and oxidative stress, helping stabilize blood sugar levels.
WebMD cites a small study where bay leaf tea effectively reduced blood glucose among participants.

3. Supports digestive health

Bioactive compounds in bay leaves may help ease stomach discomfort, reduce symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome, and support digestion overall.
A 2024 study in Food Science & Nutrition also reported that consuming bay leaves improves gut health and digestive balance.

4. Anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effects

Bay leaves contain eugenol and cineole, compounds with natural anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
Healthshots notes that regular consumption may help reduce pain, swelling, and inflammation — especially beneficial for people with conditions such as arthritis or gout.

Research published in Drug and Pharmaceutical Science Archives shows that bay leaf extract can block the growth of several bacterial and fungal strains, helping prevent infections.

5. Boosts immunity

With its combination of vitamins A, B6, and C, bay leaves may help support the body’s natural immune defenses.

Easy to use, easy to find

Bay leaves can be harvested year-round and are widely available in markets and supermarkets across Vietnam. They can be added to daily cooking to elevate flavor while providing valuable nutrients that contribute to better long-term health.