HerbMate
Bay laurel (Laurus nobilis) plant
Digestive

Bay laurel (Laurus nobilis)

Photo: Júlio Reis ( Tintazul ) · CC BY-SA 2.5

  • Digestive
  • 2 conditions
  • Licensed photo

Overview

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.

Safety & precautions

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

Educational reference only - not medical advice. Herbs can interact with medications. Consult a qualified healthcare provider before use. Full disclaimer.

Drug interactions

Interaction data is not available for this herb - talk to a pharmacist before combining it with any medication. A blank entry here means we have not documented interactions, not that none exist.

Habitat

Native to Mediterranean regions, bay laurel prefers damp, shaded sites and is often cultivated as a culinary herb. Leaves are picked throughout the year for cooking or medicinal preparations.

Traditionally used for

Each condition shows its first 2 remedies free. Premium opens the full remedy list for every condition - or come back for the free Condition of the Day.

Frequently asked questions

What safety cautions apply to Bay laurel (Laurus nobilis)?

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