Laurel (Bay Laurel)
Laurus nobilis (Lauraceae)
Native to the Mediterranean region, bay laurel is know cultivated all over the world.
Bay laurel was sacred to the gods Apollo and Aesculapius, who together oversaw healing and medicine.
The herb was thought to be greatly protective and healing.
An infusion of the leaves was taken for its warming and tonic effect on the stomach and bladder, and a plaster made from the leaves was used to relieve wasp and bee stings.
Bay laurel is used mainly to treat upper digestive tract disorders and to ease arthritic aches and pains.
It is settling to the stomach and has a tonic effect, stimulating the appetite and the secretion of digestive juices.
Main Properties: Astringent, digestive.