Bay Laurel Essential Oil

Botanical Name: Laurus nobilis
Common Method Of Extraction: Steam distillation
Parts Used: Leaves and branches
Note Classification: Middle
Aroma: Herbaceous, slightly camphoraceous, and warm
Largest Producing Countries: France, Spain, Italy, China, Israel, Turkey, Morocco, and Russia

Traditional Use: Bay oil was very popular with the Romans, who thought Bay was a symbol of wisdom, peace and protection.

Properties: Analgesic, antibacterial, antibiotic, antifungal, anti-neuralgic, antirheumatic, antiseptic, aperitif, astringent, diaphoretic, digestive, diuretic, emmenagogue, expectorant, febrifuge, hypotensive, insecticide, mucolytic, sedative, and tonic.

Benefits: Ammenorhea, arthritis, circulation problems, colds, dental infection, diarrhea, dyspepsia, flatulence, flu, loss of appetite, mouth ulcers, muscular pain, neuralgia, rheumatism, skin infections, tonsillitis, & viral infections.  Said to clear mental confusion and clarify thought processes, stress-relieving, calming, uplifting, and grounding.

Blends Well With: Bergamot, virginian cedarwood, eucalyptus, fennel, ginger, orange, patchouli, rosemary, ylang-ylang, pine, cypress, juniper, lavender, frankincense, clary sage, olibanum, labdanum, citrus & spice oils.

Of Interest: The Latin Laudis means “to praise,” which is why the victors at the Olympic games were presented with a Laurel (Bay) Wreath. The priestesses at Delphi sat over the burning fumes to increase their prophetic visions.

Safety Data: Bay oil has high eugenol content and may irritate the skin and mucus membranes, so use with caution. Avoid during pregnancy.

Disclaimer:
This information is for educational purposes only, it is not intended to treat, cure, prevent or, diagnose any disease or condition. Nor is it intended to prescribe in any way. This information is for educational purposes only and may not be complete, nor may its data be accurate.

As with all essential oils, never use them undiluted. Do not take internally unless working with a qualified and expert practitioner. Keep away from children. If applying an essential oil to your skin always perform a small patch test to an insensitive part of the body (after you have properly diluted the oil in an appropriate carrier.