Video: Properties and Uses of Bay Essential Oil
Bay or laurel is one of the most versatile plants in its therapeutic use, and its essential oil is no exception. Widely used to alleviate inflammatory and infectious symptoms, it is also one of the safest for use, making it one of our most utilized oils.
Properties of Bay Essential Oil
As a medicinal plant, bay is a stomach tonic (appetite stimulant, digestive, cholagogue, and carminative). The essential oil obtained from the fruits ("bay butter") was traditionally used for treating osteoarticular inflammation and pediculosis. Consuming large quantities of bay leaves can be toxic.
The oil is frequently used in cosmetics and perfumery. It also functions as a skin toner, can help post-shaving skin, and treat acne. Unlike other essential oils, such as rose or geranium oils which are more feminine, its aroma is considered more masculine, making it a good choice for men's perfumes and cosmetics.
Bay essential oil can also act as an analgesic. In aromatherapy, it is used to relieve muscle or joint pain and neuralgia. It can also be used as a massage oil or added to bath water for a relaxing effect. It is added to hair products like shampoos and other treatments for hair loss. It can also be used to treat dandruff and oily scalp.
Historically, the oil served as an insect repellent, particularly effective against moths. It is often added to other insecticides, fumigants, vaporizers, and sprays.
Anti-inflammatory: Bay components help reduce digestive, genitourinary, joint, and muscle disorders in inflammatory processes.
Antibacterial: Helps alleviate symptoms of viruses and bacteria in different systems of our body.
Antispasmodic: For muscle and stomach spasms.
Diuretic: Helps eliminate water and sodium from our body.
Insecticide: Repels insects, especially moths.
Carminative: Promotes the expulsion of gases from the digestive tract.
Expectorant: Expels accumulated secretions in the respiratory tract.
Practical Uses and Applications of Bay Essential Oil
Bay essential oil has traditionally been used to help in the following situations:
Musculoskeletal system: Helps with rheumatism.
Digestive system: Bay components help with colic, dyspepsia, loss of appetite, and flatulence.
Integumentary system: Helps eliminate dandruff and reduces excess oil on the scalp; it is used to relieve acne.
Genitourinary system: Scant periods.
Immune system: For treating flu, colds, and tonsillitis.
Recipes with Bay Essential Oil
TOPICAL USE
- To relieve the respiratory system: Apply 3-4 drops of bay along with 3-4 drops of eucalyptus essential oil diluted in a teaspoon of sesame oil on the chest, neck, and soles of the feet.
IN DIFFUSION
- To calm cough and improve breathing: Add 4-5 drops to a diffuser along with eucalyptus and ravintsara essential oils.
- To improve concentration: Add 4-5 drops of bay to a diffuser along with lemon and frankincense essential oils.
DIY Cosmetic Recipes with Laurel Leaf Oil
Rejuvenating Facial Cream
Ingredients:
- 30 ml jojoba oil
- 10 ml rosehip oil
- 10 drops laurel leaf essential oil
- 5 drops frankincense essential oil
- 5 drops lavender essential oil
Instructions:
- Mix all ingredients in a dark glass jar.
- Shake well before each use.
- Apply a small amount to clean face and gently massage until absorbed.
Strengthening Hair Serum
Ingredients:
- 20 ml argan oil
- 10 ml castor oil
- 10 drops laurel leaf essential oil
- 5 drops rosemary essential oil
- 5 drops peppermint essential oil
Instructions:
- Mix all ingredients in a dropper bottle.
- Apply a few drops to the scalp and gently massage.
- Leave on for at least 30 minutes or overnight before washing your hair.
Relaxing Body Lotion
Ingredients:
- 100 ml sweet almond oil
- 15 drops laurel leaf essential oil
- 10 drops lavender essential oil
- 5 drops chamomile essential oil
Instructions:
- Mix all ingredients in a pump bottle.
- Apply the lotion all over your body after bathing for soft and relaxed skin.
Men's Care Recipes
Beard Oil
Ingredients:
- 30 ml jojoba oil
- 10 ml argan oil
- 8 drops laurel leaf essential oil
- 5 drops cedarwood essential oil
- 5 drops bergamot essential oil
Instructions:
- Mix all ingredients in a dropper bottle.
- Apply a few drops to the beard and massage until fully absorbed.
Soothing Aftershave Lotion
Ingredients:
- 50 ml witch hazel
- 10 ml aloe vera gel
- 10 drops laurel leaf essential oil
- 5 drops lavender essential oil
- 5 drops tea tree essential oil
Instructions:
- Mix all ingredients in a spray bottle.
- Shake well before use.
- Spray on face and neck after shaving to soothe and refresh the skin.
Laurel Essential Oil Pairs Well With:
Recommended Dilutions for Bay Essential Oil
Bay essential oil should always be used diluted and avoiding sensitive areas (mucous membranes, eyes…)
Maximum generic dilution for topical use recommended in adults: 2%
Maximum generic dilution for topical use recommended in children: 0.25% (over 6 years old)
Avoid use in children under 3 years.
Essential oils are highly concentrated substances and should be diluted in almost all uses. Use our dilution table for a more detailed idea of the correct use of essential oils:
ESSENTIAL OILS DILUTION GENERAL GUIDE
Notes from Our Aromatherapy Experts
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“A symbol of immortality and success, bay essential oil is an essential ally in our home due to its ability to alleviate many common problems we encounter daily. Additionally, it is an easy-to-use essential oil, thanks to its balanced composition.”
Luís Rodero, Aromatherapy Expert
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Identification
Botanical name: Laurus nobilis L., Lauraceae
Origin: Eastern Europe
Extraction method: Steam distillation. (Pure water, no solvents or refining processes).
Part distilled or extracted: Leaves
INCI: Laurus nobilis Oil
Safety
Do not use during the first months of pregnancy.
Keep out of reach of children.
Some natural components of this essential oil may pose an allergy risk to some people. Always perform a tolerance test before use by applying a few drops to the inside of the elbow.
Oral use: Yes (only under professional advice).
Topical use: Suitable when diluted.
Diffuser: Suitable
Phototoxicity: No
Sensitizing: No
Irritating: No
Allergens Naturally Present in This Essential Oil:
- Linalool
- Limonene
- Eugenol
- Geraniol
Storage of Essential Oils
It is equally important to know how to store essential oils to ensure their good condition and prevent them from becoming toxic or irritating due to oxidation or contamination. We recommend reading this small guide:
Storage of Essential Oils
Important
The information on oils provided by Essenciales comes from popular sources and is for educational purposes only. It does not intend to offer or sell this product as a diagnosis, treatment, cure, or prevention of any disease. The International Federation of Aromatherapists does not recommend the ingestion or internal consumption of essential oils except under the strict supervision of a doctor or qualified practitioner in clinical aromatherapy and phytotherapy. It is always recommended to properly dilute essential oils. If you are pregnant, have epilepsy, liver failure, or any health problem, use essential oils only under medical prescription. Never use essential oils on children without the proper knowledge or directions from a professional.
Never ignore professional medical advice.
Essenciales does not provide medical advice or engage in the practice of medicine.
