How to Use Bay Leaf Essential Oil
How to use bay leaf essential oil
Bay laurel, Laurus nobilis, essential oil is obtained from an evergreen tree, native to the Mediterranean region. The oil is distilled of the leaves and branchlets. It has a strong, but sweet and spicy aroma.
A garland of woven laurel leaves was awarded as a symbol of honour or victory in Rome. In the Middle Ages, distinguished men were crowned with a wreath of laurel, hence the term Laureate. University graduates were known as bachelors from the Latin baccalaureus (bacco is a berry, laureus of laurel).
Bay laurel tree in the garden was there to predict a disaster.
It has long been used in herbal medicine, infusions of the leaves were prescribed to alleviate kidney disorders and respiratory conditions.
The composition of bay laurel contains components from all chemical families, which explains its various uses. Bay laurel oil has been reported to have bactericidal and fungicidal properties.
Here are the therapeutic actions of the oil
- Antiseptic
- Bactericidal
- Carminative (settles the digestive system)
- Expectorant
- Diaphoretic (promotes perspiration)
- Digestive
- Tonic
Bay laurel leaf oil is an excellent digestive system stimulant; expels wind, settles stomach, has a tonic action on liver and kidney.
The oil is described as nerve tonic.
Bay laurel is a good antiseptic for the respiratory system. It is an expectorant and is recommended for the treatment of chronic bronchitis.
Bay laurel is used for conditions such as ulcers, boils, acne, and abscesses.
The oil promotes confidence, insight, and courage.
How to use bay leaf essential oil
In massage, diluted in a carrier oil of your choice. Up to 10 drops in a tablespoon of carrier.
Compress. 5 drops in half a litre of water.
Skincare diluted in carrier. 1%.
Inhalation
Diffuser. 5-10 drops.
