Bay leaf - Nature Cures®

Also known as Laurus nobilis, sweet bay, true laurel, laurier d’apollon, roman laurel, noble laurel, lorbeer, laurier sauce, daphne.

NOTE: Bay leaf should not be confused with Indian bay leaf also known as Cinnamomum tamala.

Internally, bay leaf components are good to stimulate appetite, promote digestion and relieve colic and flatulence. They have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antimicrobial, and decongestant properties.

Beneficial components in bay leaves

To release these compounds from bay leaves they must be chopped finely and either simmered for an hour or more. They can so be made into a tincture using alcohol or apple cider vinegar.

NOTE: For the highest level of beneficial components, the best time to harvest bay leaves is in September.

Anxiety relief is a benefit of burning bay leaves due to linalool and other components being released in the smoke.

External uses of bay leaf

Externally components in bay leaves are a good remedy for dandruff, boosting hair growth, rheumatism, sprains, scabies, and bruises. Also externally, they can be applied as a poultice on the chest with a cloth covering to relieve bronchitis and coughs.

An oil infused with bay leaves can be applied with great benefit to rheumatic and arthritic aches and pains as well as to swellings and sprains.

NOTE: The essential oil of bay leaves can be potent and contains methyl eugenol that can cause skin irritation. For this reason, the essential oil should not be consumed orally and only used very diluted on the skin.

Related subjects

Join our mailing list to receive your monthly emailed newsletter with all the latest scientific findings for natural health remedies.