Laurel Leaf

Laurus nobilis

Other Names : Laurus nobilis, Bay laurel, sweet bay, bay tree (esp. United Kingdom), true laurel, Grecian laurel, laurel tree, laurel

Special Precautions of Laurel Leaf

• Use in moderation due to possibe narcotic properties attributed to methyl eugenol.
• Laurel leaves aren’t widely known as an allergenic substance, but contact dermatitis and eczema breakouts have been sporadically reported. If you’re allergic to other members of the Lauraceae family, you will likely be allergic to bay leaves as well.
• Should not be used during pregnancy.
• Don't confuse with Nerium oleander (Laurier Rose) which is toxic.
• Don't confuse with Prunus laurocerasus (cherry laurel) which is toxic
• Don't confuse with Bay Leaf.
• See precautions Aromatherapy.

The benefits of Laurel Leaf are

• Coughs & Colds : Placing a cloth soaked in water in which Laurel leaves have been boiled provides relief from cough, cold, bronchitis and chest infections.
• Aches & Pains : Essential oil of Laurel leaf is massaged on sprained areas and for relieving headaches. The oil also provides relief from swellings, rheumatic and arthritic pain.
• Fever : Laurel leaves infusion promotes sweating, breaking fever, and flu symptoms.
• Immune System : Colds, flu, tonsillitis and viral infections.
• Respiratory Conditions: When the essential oil of laurel leaves is extracted, it can be mixed into a salve and applied to the chest to help alleviate various respiratory conditions. This can also be achieved with a poultice made of the leaves. Spread it on the chest and allow it to remain overnight. Inhaling the vapors has a similar effect to aromatherapy and can loosen up phlegm and eliminate dangerous bacteria that may be trapped in your respiratory tracts thanks to its natural antibacterial quality.
• Digestion : Laurel leaves are used for treatment of digestive disorders. They reduce flatulence, Dyspepsia and loss of appetite.
• Diabetes : A study was conducted by the Department of Human Nutrition, Pakistan, to test the effect of bay leaf on type 2 diabetes. Forty people with type 2 diabetes were chosen for the study. They were divided into four groups and each group was given different quantities of bay leaf. At the end of the 30-day study, it was observed that all the subjects showed a marked increase in serum glucose. The conclusion was that using bay leaf reduces risk of cardiovascular diseases and Type 2 diabetes. A similar study was conducted at the Department of Medical Technology, Zarqa Private University, Jordan. Similar to the above study, all subjects showed a remarkable decrease in levels of plasma glucose. Bad cholesterol levels also dropped. The conclusion of this study was that bay leaf not only improves insulin function but also reduces cardiovascular disease risks.
• Anti-Inflammatory Activity: One of the most important benefits of Laurel leaves is their ability to reduce inflammation throughout the body. Bay leaves contain a rather unique phytonutrient, called parthenolide, which can quickly reduce inflammation and irritation when topically applied to affected areas, such as sore joints or areas affected by arthritis. This effect can also be achieved through normal consumption of bay leaf spice.
• genito-urinary System : Scanty periods.
• Heart Health: Caffeic acid and rutin are both important organic compounds found in Laurel leaf that greatly boost heart health. Rutin strengthens capillary walls in the heart and the body’s extremities, while caffeic acid can help eliminate “bad” cholesterol from the cardiovascular system.
• Cancer Prevention: The unique combination of antioxidants and organic compounds in laurel leaves, including phytonutrients, catechins, linalool, and parthenolide, helps to protect the body from the effects of free radicals. Free radicals can cause healthy cells to mutate into cancerous cells, which bay leaves are particularly adept at preventing.
• Anxiety and Stress: One of the least commonly known benefits of Laurel leaves is their naturally soothing quality. Linalool is often associated with thyme and basil, but it is also present in bay leaves and can help to lower the level of stress hormones in the body, especially when used in aromatherapy. Excess stress hormones can be dangerous for long-term health, so bay leaves can help you calm down and remain relaxed even in your most high-anxiety moments.
• Hair Health: If you want to improve the health of your hair follicles and eliminate dandruff, steep Laurel leaves in water and then rub that on your scalp after shampooing. The chemicals and volatile ingredients in bay leaves can help to eliminate dry skin and dandruff.