BAY LAUREL
Botanical name: Laurus nobilis (synonymous with Laurus persea L., Laurus winteriana L.)

Also Known As (AKA):  Grecian Laurel, Sweet Bay, True Bay, True Laurel

Therapeutic Benefit - Mind:  Laurel is warming, invigorating, uplifting and strengthening. It can increase confidence and dispel anxiety.

Therapeutic Benefit - Body:  Laurel is analgesic, antiseptic, anti-fungal, anti-microbial, anti-inflammatory, anti-infectious, antiviral, and antispasmodic. It is an appetite stimulant and good for indigestion. Laurel lowers high blood pressure and is a tonic for the reproductive system. It is also used for bronchitis, muscular aches, hair loss, dandruff, scabies and scars.

Therapeutic Benefit - Spirit:  Laurel is used to find a sense of purpose in life. It is also used for consecration, casting out, protection, and purification ceremonies. Laurel is associated with justice and wisdom.

Application Method:  Dilute 10 drops in 1 oz carrier oil, massage oil, or lotion and apply to skin or bath. Use 4 drops in 2 cups of hot water for a steam.

Action Word:  Uplifting

Color Energy:  Violet - Uplifting

Fragrance:  Woodsy, floral, herbaceous, camphoraceous

Note:  Top Note

Color of Oil:  Clear

Major Chemical Constituents:  1,8-cineole, alpha-pinene, terpinyl acetate

Common Adulterants:  eucalyptus oil, 1,8-cineole (synthetic or bioidentical)

Blends well with:  Bergamot, Cedarwood, Cinnamon, Clary Sage, Clovebud, Coriander, Cypress, Eucalyptus, Fennel, Ginger, Hyssop, Juniper, Lavender, Lemon, Marjoram, Orange, Patchouli, Pine, Rose, Rosemary, Thyme, Ylang Ylang

Botany:  This sturdy evergreen tree grows to over thirty feet and is actually native to southern Europe. Our Bay tree has long lance-shaped leaves which are rather leathery and glossy and bear small creamy-yellow flowers and black berries.

History:  Extensively used by the ancient Egyptians and popular with the Romans, who saw the Bay as a symbol of wisdom, protection and peace. Its Latin derivative, “Laudis,” means, “to praise,” hence the presentation of laurel wreaths to victors at the Olympic games.

Warnings:  Avoid during pregnancy but helpful in childbirth (rub on feet). May irritate sensitive skin and mucous membranes.