Description
West Indian Bay essential oil is extracted from the Laurus nobilis tree, of the Lauraceae family and is also known as sweet bay, laurel and Mediterranean bay
This warming oil is often used in aromatherapy since it is a good antiseptic for the respiratory system, perks up the digestive system, settles stomach pain and expels wind, while promoting confidence, courage and insight. Topically, it is most often used to combat hair loss and to improve the health of the scalp in general.
Oil properties
The scent of bay oil is sweet, fresh and spicy and the oil is deep yellow in color, being of medium to watery viscosity.
Origin of bay oil
This sturdy evergreen tree is a native of West Indies, Venezuela and the Guianas. Nowadays the oil is obtained mostly from Morocco and Spain. The bay tree grows to about 10 meters (30 feet), has long aromatic lance-shaped leaves, small white-yellow flowers and black berries.
Bay oil was very popular with the Romans, who thought that the herb was symbolic of wisdom, peace and protection. The Latin ‘Laudis’ means ‘to praise”, which is why the victors at the Olympic games were presented with a laurel (bay) wreath.
In the past, bay leaves were distilled with rum and the “bay-rum” so obtained was a famous hair tonic and body rub for colds and muscle pains .
Extraction
The leaves are collected from a tree that is at least 5 years old and are subjected to steam distillation (salt is often added or seawater used in the still). The extraction usually yields about 0.5-1.5%.
Chemical composition
The chemical composition of bay oil includes; a-pinene, b-pinene, myrcene, limonene, linalool, methyl chavicol, neral, a-terpineol, geranyl acetate, eugenol and chavicol.
Precautions
Bay oil has a high eugenol content and may irritate the skin and mucus membranes, so it should be use with caution on the skin.
Pregnant women should avoid it.
Therapeutic properties
The therapeutic properties of bay oil include; antiseptic, antibiotic, analgesic, anti-neuralgic, antispasmodic, aperitif, astringent, emmenagogue, febrifuge, insecticide, cholagogue, sedative, stomachic, sudorific and tonic.
Uses
Bay oil can be used in the treatment of rheumatism, neuralgia, muscular pain, circulation problems, colds, flu, dental infection, hair growth, general health of the scalp, diarrhea and skin infections.
Summary
The benefit of bay oil lies in its calming and warming effect on emotions and general aches and pains, including rheumatic pains. It also settles the digestive system, excess gas and also acts as a tonic on the liver and kidneys. In small amounts it has a stimulating effect, while larger doses produce a sedating effect.
Bay essential oil is also helpful with hair and scalp conditions and is mostly used to combat hair loss and is used with success in treating sprains, strains and bruises.
- Burners and vaporizers
- In vapor therapy, bay oil can be used for an infection, for fever and general aches and pains. It can also trigger inspiration and has a calming effect on the mind.
- Blended massage oil and in the bath
- As a blended massage oil or diluted in the bath, bay oil can assist with calming emotions and relieving aches and pains, especially when combined with rose and juniper, but care must be taken as it can irritate the mucus membranes.
More information about Bay
Skin & Hair Care ~ helps with oily skin conditions & skin infections ~ recommended in hair care as a scalp stimulant ~ combats hair loss & promotes hair growth, dandruff & greasy, lifeless hair
Digestive System ~ useful for digestive disorders, vomiting, gastric spasms, constipation, diarrhea, cramps, nausea, dyspepsia & hiccups ~ recommended to calm & has sedative properties for digestive insomnia ~ helps with those who ‘digest’ their worries during the night
Immune System ~ analgesic (pain relief) ~ treats injuries, surgical recovery, headaches, migraines, insect, mosquito & wasp bites
Musculoskeletal System ~ recommended for muscular aches & pains, neuralgia, strains & sprains, improve poor circulation & rheumatism
Nervous System ~ excellent remedy for the brain ~ gives the mind strength & clarity, helps increase concentration, relieves mental fatigue ~ beneficial for all types of nervous disorders, anxiety, stress, depression ~ stimulant &/or relaxing & restorative depending on the body’s needs
Respiratory System ~ excellent antiseptic for the respiratory system ~ recommended for the treatment of colds, flu, tonsillitis & viral infections
Reproductive System ~ recommended for delayed & scanty menstruation, abdominal cramps & menstrual pain
Emotional ~ Spiritual ~ calming & warming for the emotions ~ creates inspiration ~ calming effect on the mind ~ promotes confidence, courage & insight Blends well with ~ Aniseed, Bergamot, Cedarwood, Cinnamon, Clove, Coriander, Eucalyptus, Lemon Scented Eucalyptus, Fennel, Geranium, Ginger, Gingergrass, Grapefruit, Juniper, Lavender, Lemon, Lemon Grass, Lemon Myrtle, Marjoram, Neroli, Mandarin, Orange, Patchouli, Rosemary, Sandalwood, Tangerine, Thyme, Ylang Ylang
Safety ~ non-toxic, non-irritating & non-sensitizing ~ avoid during pregnancy
