Bay Laurel

Laurus nobilis

Part used: leaf

Nutrient content:

• vitamin C
• folic acid
• vitamin A
• copper
• potassium
• calcium
• manganese
• iron
• selenium
• zinc
• magnesium

Benefits:

• effective for parasites
• antibacterial
• antifungal
• aids in digestion
• promotes healthy menstruation
• helps to clear mucus from the lungs
• increases circulation in the skin
• helps in the treatment of wounds
• has insect repellent properties
• can be used as a diuretic/emetic
• improves insulin function

Cautions and side effects:

• California Bay Leaf, which is a different plant and often mistaken for Bay Laurel,  can damage the central nervous system and cause respiratory distress if inhaled.

Recipes using Bay Laurel:

• Energizer Oil
• Seven Herbs Marinade Oil

Sources and additional information:
McBride, Kami. Herbal Kitchen. San Francisco: Conari Press. 2010. Print.
http://herballegacy.com/search.php?zoom_query=bay+leaf
http://www.nutrition-and-you.com/bay-leaf.html