Bay Laurel, or Laurus Nobilis is a very widely used herb dating back into Biblical times and is native to the Mediterranean Region. Bay Laurel Extract has uses ranging from culinary to aromatherapy. Where it’s tantalizing eucalyptus qualities are amplified as almost air cleaning abilities.
The Bay Laurel has Symbolic uses as well. The chosen Laurel Wreath of Ancient Greece comes to mind here. Spiritual qualities are said to be possessed by the Bay Laurel as well, but the best uses of the plant are actually medical.
Bay Laurel’s natural camphor aroma, mixed with its sweeter undertones makes its essential oil a tenacious argument to the senses. But the brunt of Bay Laurel essential oils endowments come from within.
Some of the most remarkable traits of the Bay Laurel extract, are found after the leaves have been extracted, usually by a steam distiller, and this nearly clear oil is the home of almost every known chemical element that make up essential oils.
The common, or abundant chemical element is 1,8 cineole, or eucalyptol. Also found are sesquiterpenes, pinenes, phellandrene, geraniol, and linalool, to name a few.
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Relative Research
Bay Laurel, and the oils of other Mediterranean plants have been long studied for their anti-viral uses. Bay Laurel itself is said to be a potent anti-viral as cited by Dr Kurt Schnaubelt, author of The Healing Intelligence of Essential Oils and Advanced Aromatherapy.
Dr. Schnaubelt wrote how Bay laurel was noticed to have “an interesting anti-viral action against SARS coronavirus”, sometimes shortened to SARS-CoV. The virus causes severe acute respiratory syndrome. (SARS).
This virus can last up to 12 weeks, and causes symptoms from high fever (over 100.4 degrees F), and seems at first like a flu. Chills, muscle aches, headaches, diarrhea, runny nose, and so on are also symptoms.
Later on, the virus can develop into respiratory failure, and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). In 70 to 90% of the cases, the victim will develop a low white blood cell count, (lymphocyte) a condition better known as lymphopenia.
Dr. Schnaubelt continued his mention of Bay Laurel in Advanced Aromatherapy when he said, “It’s positive effects on the lymphatic system are undeniable. Rubbing a few drops of Bay Laurel Essential Oil On Lymph Nodes will produce an immediately noticeable relieving effect. The positive and pleasant effect of this oil is so distinct and strong, that one application will normally suffice to convince the most hardened skeptic to use it.”
Bay Laurel Essential Oil Benefits and Uses
Antiseptic – Helps to Treat Wounds
Bay Laurel is effective at cleaning and treating wounds due to its antiseptic properties. It’s a great oil to have to hand at home in case of scrapes and cuts. You can clean and protect the wound with this natural solution.
Antibiotic – Fights off Bacteria
I prefer using oils to fight off bacterias instead of antibiotics. They are a lot less aggressive and less likely to cause stomach issues. Side effects are very few and unlikely, and it’s a lot safer if they are working well for you.
Anti-Neuralgic – Relief from Pain
Neuralgia is a sharp and paroxysmal pain along the course of a nerve. Most useful for post-herpetic neuralgia, chronic pain, (such as arthritis) inflammation and headaches.
This actually, is an area of phenomenal strength for the Bay Laurel Oil. If you recall Dr. Schnaubelts findings from the top of this article. Just rub on, and the effects are so immediate that you will be amazed.
Anti-Spasmodic – Soothes Symptoms and Pain
Having stomach cramps, diarrhea, spasms, and pains is uncomfortable and can be distressing. Diffusing a few drops of Bay Laurel can give great relief from these symptoms by relaxing the muscles and contractions.
Analgesic – Effective at Reducing Pain
Bay Laurel has natural anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties to help reduce pain. It’s a safer alternative to the pills and prescriptions medicines that achieve the same relief.
Astringent – Reduces Minor Abrasions
As an astringent Bay Laurel can be used to protect the skin and to reduce bleeding from minor abrasions. Astringents can also be used for oily skin.
You can use this oil to treat minor cuts and bites. Try applying a very small amount to the skin to test for sensitivity, mix with a carrier oil for use on larger areas topically.
Cholagogue – Aids Digestion
Using this oil will help your body to discharge bile into the stomach. If you have problems digesting food, bloating, cramps, etc, this can provide some much-needed relief.
Emmenagogue – Regulating Menstrual Flow
This oil can help stimulate or increased menstrual flow. It is also said to be good for menstrual period, helping ease the pain and other troubles associated with the cycle for some people like stomach cramps already mentioned.
Insecticide – Repel Bugs and Insects
Bay Laurel is a natural insect repellant. It’s one of the essential oils used to keep bugs like mosquitos and flies away.
Sedative – Naturally Calming and Relaxing
If you struggle to really relax or sleep try diffusing a few drops of this oil. It has natural sedative properties and can make a real difference. You can also lessen the feels of depression, anxiety, and nervousness.
Stomachic – Maintains Balance
The alkaloids in Bay Laurel help the stomach maintain balance. Defeating and preventing problems caused by excessive acidity, and fighting against infections, and ulcers. It can provide much-needed relief if you suffer from stomach pain and discomfort.
Sudorific – Helps Flush Toxins
Bay Laurel can been used to induce sweating, removing toxins, fat, and excess salts from the skin. Sweating also helps to reduce fevers. Put a couple of drops in a hot bath and you’ll feel the effects.
Bay Laurel Essential Oil Blends Well With
Bay Laurel is a versatile oil that blends well with a lot of other oils. If you’re looking to combine its benefits with another oil take a look through some of these:
- Clary Sage
- Cypress
- Frankincense
- Juniper Labdanum
- Lavender
- Sage
- Bergamot
- Eucalyptus
- Fennel
- Ginger
- Orange
- Patchouli
Ways to Use Bay Laurel Essential Oil
There are a few different ways to use oils. It comes down to what you prefer and what health conditions you’re trying to treat. Here are some suggested methods of use:
Aromatically Diffusing – This is a good option for Bay Laurel. All you need is a diffuser, if you don’t have one I’ve reviewed loads as I’m really into my diffusers. Take a look at these top three – or check the benefits of diffusing:
Topical Use – When using topically always mix with a good carrier oil. Gently massage in to the desired areas and be careful if there are wounds or broken skin. Rubbing into the tummy can help with the digestive issues and discussed above.
Bay Laurel Essential Oil Side Effects and Precautions
If you are pregnant or breastfeeding you should not use Bay Laurel to er on the side of caution. If you think you are experiencing any reactions to using the oil always stop using immediately and consult your doctor.
When using topically always dilute with a good carrier oil. Bay Laurel is safe when used as directed, always use within reasonable moderation.
In Summary
Bay Laurel Essential Oil is a great oil to help with a wide range of benefits as outlined above. If you’re new to oils this is a good one to start with. It has a lovely sweet scent, it’s relaxing, great for your skin, and blends well with other oil in aromatherapy.
It’s a fun oil to diffuse and that’s how I use mine mostly. If you have any uses or experiences with Bay Laurel please share them below for others to read. Thanks.
I’m a MA, (CMT) Certified Massage Therapist, Licensed Massage Therapist (LMT), and Reiki Master — I’m a licensed massage therapist with over 10 years of experience in the industry.