Botanical name: Laurus nobilis
Botanical family: Lauraceae
Note: Top
Part of plant used: Tree/Leaves
Origin: Originally comes southern Europe and most commonly obtained from Morocco and Spain.
Description: Sweet and spicy.
History: Used in ancient Egypt and in Roman times, Bay was a symbol of wisdom and peace. ‘Laudis’, where it’s Latin name is derived from, means ‘to praise’ which is why Laurel wreaths were presented to Olympians.
Properties and Indications:
- Can act as an appetite stimulant and help digestive system
- Settles stomach pain and can expel wind
- Tonic to the liver and kidneys
- Promotes the flow of urine
- Can be helpful for Rheumatic pain and other general aches and pains
- Promotes sweating when there is fever
- Useful for bronchial complaints
- Helps regulate scanty periods and can speed up delivery in childbirth
- Soothes inflammation and can minimize scars
- Can stimulate hair growth, tones the scalp and can help clear dandruff
Personality:
- Warming to the emotions
- Mildly narcotic
Contra-indications:
- Not to be used in pregnancy
- Can irritate sensitive skin
Blending:
- Aniseed, Caraway, Cedarwood, Coriander, Eucalyptus, Juniper, Lavender, Lemon, Orange, Rose, Rosemary, Thyme, Ylang Ylang
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