Bay Laurel Leaf Essential Oil is derived from the Bay Laurel tree, which is also botanically known as Laurus nobilis, through a process of steam distillation. This oil is commonly confused with Bay oil, which comes from Pimenta racemosa instead. Although these two oils share similar qualities and have similar properties, they come from two very different plants.

The Bay Laurel tree, an evergreen shrub, is indigenous to the Mediterranean and the Black Sea region but it is mostly cultivated in Europe nowadays. However, in ancient times, it was widely believed that the tree contained magical powers, thus making it capable of warding off evil and diseases.

Both the ancient Greeks and the Romans regarded the bay laurel leaves to be highly sacred and valuable, as they symbolized victory and high status. The Greeks also considered it to be a potent medicine that was capable of protecting them against plague and various diseases. Today, bay laurel leaf and its essential oil contains numerous medicinal properties that can be used to address a variety of health ailments. Read on to find out more!

Health Benefits of Bay Laurel Leaf Essential Oil:

1. Provides Respiratory Relief

The essential oil of the bay laurel leaf is known to be an expectorant as it is able to clear up excess phlegm and mucus lodged within your respiratory tracts, thus relieving congestion of the nasal passageway. This hence helps to promote a freer and unobstructed breathing passage. As such, bay laurel leaf essential oil is great for those suffering from coughs, colds, flu and bronchitis.

Its antibacterial and antiseptic nature is also useful for killing off any bacteria or viruses that can cause infections of the respiratory system, thus preventing the onset of such sickness and ailments in the first place. Coupled with its anti-spasmodic qualities, it is able to soothe any involuntary contractions, spasms and convulsions, thus providing immense relief from painful coughing spells.

How to Use it: You can diffuse bay laurel leaf oil in a diffuser or vaporizer and inhale the aromatic wafts. Alternatively, you can make a steam inhalation by adding a few drops of the oil into a bowl of hot, steaming water and inhale the vapors emanating out. You can even mix it in combination with eucalyptus essential oil to produce optimum results!

2. Regulates Menstrual Flow

Extracts of the bay laurel leaves have been used to stimulate menstrual flows, thus making the essential oil a good, natural remedy for irregular and improper menstrual cycles. It helps to stimulate and regulate menstrual cycles, thus ensuring that your menstrual flows are proper, timely and regular.

It also helps to ease menstrual cramps, given its antispasmodic qualities as it relaxes the uterine muscles and it relieves commonly associated problems, such as nausea and fatigue.

How to Use it: Dilute the oil with a Carrier Oil (such as grape seed, jojoba or rosehip oils) in a 1:1 ratio and gently massage onto your abdominal area for pain relief and to stimulate menstruation.

3. Offers Pain Relief

Bay laurel leaf oil is also known for its analgesic qualities, and it is often used to provide pain relief to a variety of ailments like muscular and joint problems associated with arthritis, rheumatism, gout or to sore, aching muscles after an intense workout session. Simply rub it onto the desired areas, and you will feel better in no time! Besides offering muscular relief, the oil can help to alleviate pain arising from headaches or migraines.

Furthermore, the oil is all-natural, which is definitely better than over-the-counter painkillers and analgesic pills as those might carry unwanted side effects and may be harmful to your overall health in the long run.

How to Use it: Simply dilute the oil with a carrier oil and gently massage onto the affected areas. You can also add a few drops of the oil in a warm compress and press gently onto the affected areas.