BAY
Leaves Essential Oil
Pimenta acris -
Pimenta racemosa
Myrtaceae—myrtle family
The essential oil of bay leaves
is extracted by steam distillation of leaves from the
bay tree. Bay leaves essential oil has a strong, spicy
scent similar to that of cloves. Bay leaves calm the
autonomic nervous system. When added to baths they
stimulate the circulatory system. For bronchial problems
they are a useful antiseptic. For colds, use bay leaves
in combination with eucalyptus and inhale, add it to
a bath, or use it in the aroma lamp.
Around the turn of the century bay leaves were usually
the recommended remedy for scalp problems. Bay leaf oil
has been recommended for use in shampoos, hair lotions,
and treatments for hair and nails. |