Laurel Leaf Essential Oil
Laurel Leaf Essential Oil: Product Background
The bay laurel grows wild in Greece and Western and Southern France and been cultivated in Italy since Christ’s time, though it didn’t arrive in Great Britain until the 16th century.
Its name laurel refers to a mythical tale of a nymph who asked the gods for protections because she was being chased by Apollo. They changed her (magically) into a laurel tree, which remains protected by the pantheon of Greek gods. Since Apollo could not have her, he adopted the tree as his emblem.
The French call it ‘laurel of Appollo’, and in general, it is considered to be an embodiment of the god of the same name, who is known as the god of music and lyric.
Laurel Leaf oil is derived from the freshly picked leaves of the Laurel plant, an evergreen shrub native to the Mediterranean region. Laurel has a black-green bark and distinctively shiny, evergreen leaves. Even when slightly touched, Laurel leaves emit a beautiful aroma that attracts various insects in the wild.
Historically, Laurel leaves are a widely reputed symbol of victory. In ancient Greece, they were used as head decoration for high achievers in the Olympic games. Greeks also considered the leaves as powerful medicine capable of treating severe ailments like plague and leprosy.
Distilling Laurel leaves produces a high-quality essential oil that does not require any fillers or additives to improve its scent or potency. The oil comprises two primary components, alpha-terpinyl acetate and 1,8-cineole (eucalyptol). This combination is responsible for its strong aroma and its various health and wellness benefits.
Laurel Leaf Essential Oil: Benefits
Laurel Leaf oil has a wealth of benefits that make it popular among aromatherapists. Let’s look at some of them below.
Provides Respiratory Relief
Like many oils from the Mediterranean, Laurel Leaf is a well-known respiratory aid. If you are suffering from a cold, severe cough, or bronchitis, this oil can give you the quick relief you need. As an effective expectorant, Laurel Leaf works by thinning and expelling mucus from the respiratory system, making breathing easier.
Laurel Leaf also has antibacterial properties. When inhaled, it can help to fight off infections in the throat, windpipe, and lungs.
To use against respiratory problems, simply put a few drops of laurel leaf oil in a diffuser and inhale the aromatic scent.
Laurel Lead E Regulates Menstrual Flow
Laurel Leaf oil has antispasmodic properties that help relieve discomfort and pain associated with menstrual cramps. Furthermore, this oil is said to regulate irregular menstrual flows.
If you suffer from severe cramping, add a few drops of laurel Leaf oil to a carrier oil like almond or jojoba and massage on your lower abdomen to relieve the pain.
Offers Pain Relief
Sore muscles and joint pains are bound to happen after a long day or an intense work-out session. If you are wary about using over the counter pain relievers, you can consider Laurel Leaf as a natural remedy for your discomfort. Its analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties make it ideal for pain and inflammation caused by arthritis or sore muscles.
To use, dilute laurel leaf oil in a carrier oil and gently massage the affected area.
Helps to Heal Wounds
Laurel Leaf oil has proven antibacterial properties. When applied to a wound or cut, it can keep infection-causing bacteria away. Moreover, it accelerates the healing process by promoting the growth of new cells and tissue.
To clean a wound, mix a few drops of the oil with a carrier like olive oil and apply the blend around the wound. Be careful not to administer the mixture directly in an open wound.
Supports Digestive Health
Laurel Leaf is not famous for its influence on the digestive system. Nevertheless, its antispasmodic and anti-bacterial characteristics can contribute to a healthier gut. If you experience excessive bloating or constipation, rubbing some diluted Laurel Leaf oil on your stomach can provide relief.
Repels Insects
Laurel Leaf oil’s sweet, spicy scent is uplifting for the human senses but a deterrent for many insects. It is particularly effective at repelling common house flies and mosquitoes. This oil comes highly recommended as a safer alternative to commercial insecticides, which typically harbor harsh chemicals.
You can also discourage insects from entering your home by putting the oil into a diffuser. Alternatively, add a few drops of the oil to a spray bottle containing water and spray it all over cracks and surfaces to prevent pest and insect invasion.
Promotes Hair Growth
Laurel leaf oil is effective in enhancing hair growth. If you are suffering from hair loss, applying diluted Laurel Leaf on your scalp can rejuvenate your follicles. The oil also helps to prevent dandruff and flaky scalp.
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