Bay laurel (Laurus nobilis) vs Cornflower (Centaurea cyanus)

Bay laurel (Laurus nobilis)

Cornflower (Centaurea cyanus)

About

Bay laurel (Laurus nobilis) is an aromatic evergreen shrub or small tree that can grow up to about 65 ft (20 m). It features leathery, dark green, lance-shaped leaves, small yellow flowers, and shiny black berries. The plant is well known for its culinary use (“bay leaves”) as well as its medicinal history in ancient Greece and Rome.

Cornflower (Centaurea cyanus) is an annual or biennial plant reaching about 3 ft (90 cm). It has multiple branching stems, a rosette of lower leaves, and striking sky-blue flower heads that bloom in summer. Historically, cornflower gained a reputation for treating eye conditions (the infusion was strained and used as an eyewash), though modern evidence of its efficacy is limited. It is sometimes used as a mild bitter tonic to support digestion.

Safety & precautions

Essential Oil: Never take bay laurel essential oil internally. Topical Use: The oil should be used only in very dilute form (about 2%) to avoid skin irritation or allergic reactions.

Potential Irritation: As with any herb, discontinue use if irritation occurs.

Safety text above is printed in full and is never abbreviated. For each plant’s complete precautions, drug and food interactions and preparation notes, open its own page - both are free.