Bay is native to Asia Minor and the Mediterranean. It is a hardy evergreen shrub or tree in the laurel family. The leaves are almond-shaped, dark green on top, a paler green underneath, and 2-3 inches long. It has white-with-yellow flowers and purple-black berries. The scent profile of Bay is herbal and slightly floral, with whispers of thyme and oregano. Bay grows in humid climates and can do well in ordinary garden soil with good drainage. It prefers full sun to partial shade and can handle temperatures as low as 23°F. The USDA plant hardiness for Bay is zones 8-10. Its scientific name is Laurus nobilis, which means praise and nobility. In ancient Greece, a well-known myth says the God Apollo, drunk over his victory over Pytho, was shot with a golden arrow of desire by Eros (Cupid). Eros then shot the nymph Daphne with a leaden arrow of repulsion so the moment they laid eyes on each other, Apollo would desire her as strongly as he repulsed her. Apollo chased Daphne along the river banks and she cried out to her father for help from the relentless God. Her father, the River Peneus, hearing his daughter’s cry, transformed her into the first Bay Laurel tree. Apollo, saddened by the loss of Daphne, declared the Bay Laurel as his sacred tree and emblem. He cut a branch and wove himself a wreath, which became a symbol of victory and ritual cleansing.
Botanical Name: Laurus nobilis
Chakras: Third Eye, Solar Plexus
Elements: Fire
Energy: Masculine
Folk Names: Bay Laurel, True Laurel, Sweet Bay, Daphne
Planets: Sun
Zodiac Correspondences: Leo
Magical Properties
Magickal Keywords: Healing, Protection, Psychic Powers, Purification, Strength, Wisdom, Wishes Fulfilled
Bay is an herb of purification, strength, and power. It is burned to cleanse a space and induce visions. Added to magical workings, it gives a powerful boost and aids in the success of the spell. Although the flavor is quite strong, Bay can be brewed in clairvoyance and wisdom teas to enhance psychic powers. Another way to use Bay is to wear it during times when strength is needed, such as sports competitions or school tests.
In Hoodoo, Bay is used to make wishes come true (manifestation)! Simply write your desires on the Bay leaf and burn it while setting your intentions. Plant Bay near your home to ward off sickness. Place it in your home's windows to protect against lightning, or wear it as an amulet to ward off negativity and evil. The magickal uses for Bay leaves are endless, as are the medicinal uses we’ll get into right now.
Holistic Properties
Holistic Keywords: Colds, Infection, Pain Relief, Skin Soother
Bay leaves are mainly used as a culinary spice, and for good reason. Their stomachic properties aid digestion and soothe the upper digestive tract, helping to reduce gas. They also help break down greasy foods and heavy meals, and they can lower blood sugar, aiding in the treatment of Diabetes. Do be advised, though, that eating whole Bay leaves may be unsafe, as the leaves are indigestible for humans and may become lodged in your digestive tract.
The more common medicinal use is with the essential oils of the Bay leaf. It can be diffused to treat migraines and reduce anxiety and stress. It can be made into an oil or salve for arthritis, muscle aches, and pain. A poultice can be made for head and chest colds. Bay as a tea helps to calm nerves and can be poured over your head to reduce dandruff, greasy scalp, and hair loss. Additionally, Bay tea can be added to bath water to help with vaginal infections, perineal healing, and UTIs.
Constituents
1,8-cineole, - and -pinene, sabinene, l-linalool, eugenol, eugenol acetate, methyl eugenol, l--terpineol acetate, -phellandrene, plus other esters and terpenoids (1.2-20, 1.2-120, 3.1-65, 14.1-9).
Precautions
Bay Leaf has no known precautions. As for all herbs, only use Bay Leaves from a trusted, pesticide-free source. Please consult with your healthcare practitioner before using herbal products internally, particularly if you are pregnant, nursing, or on any medications.
Disclaimer
This information is for educational purposes only and has not been evaluated by the FDA or CFIA. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.