Bulk Herb Store

Herbs: Bay Leaf - whole, organic

Bay (Bay laurel, Sweet bay)

Botanical: Laurus nobilis:
Laurus, from the Latin word meaning to “praise” and nobilis, “renowned or famous.” Its Botanical name emphasizes the respect the ancients held for the plant.
Origin: Turkey

History

The bay tree is indigenous to Asia Minor where it spread to the shores of the Mediterranean and other countries with suitable climates. Bay leaf was always known as a symbol of honor and glory. In classical times to wear a laurel wreath or victor’s crown signified a mark of high esteem or victory; emperors, heroes and poets were adorned with the aromatic wreath. Bay was famed in ancient Greece and Rome.

This stately tree can reach heights of up to 60 feet. Bay is one of the most beautiful and aromatic of all tress. The bay tree is one of the most difficult to propagate, seeds tend to grow moldy and cuttings can take up to six months to take root. Bay trees grow in moderate climates and must be protected against freezing temperatures and winds. Turkey is the largest exporter of bay leaves.

Health Benefits

Europeans infuse bay leaf for a gentle tonic effect to relieve digestive difficulties and stomach ailments. It also contains eugenol, (an analgesic and antiseptic) which has anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties. Bay’s been considered a powerful antiseptic for thousands of years, and can be used externally to relieve rheumatic pain. Bay contains compounds called parthenolides, which help in the treatment of migraines especially when combined with feverfew. Check with your herbal practitioner to establish a dosage to best fit your needs.

Fresh bay leaves are an excellent source of vitamins A and C and folic acid. This noble spice is an exceptional source of minerals such as calcium, copper, iron, magnesium, manganese, potassium, selenium and zinc.

Bay leaf may be added to the bath to produce a stimulating effect on the skin and can help in reducing body odor. Combining rose-water, bruised cloves, chopped bay leaves and vinegar make a marvelous spicy sent which is used as a perfume. Increasing the use of bay in cooking has been shown to help the body process insulin more efficiently, which leads to lower blood sugar levels. Bay has been used to keep moths away; the leaf’s lauric acid content gives it its insecticidal proprieties.

Customer Reviews

Please, take a moment and comment on this product.