Native to the Mediterranean, laurel leaves are a symbol of victory in Greek mythology and were used as a head decoration to symbolize rank and achievement. For example, the winner of the ancient Olympic games was traditionally given a laurel wreath.
Laurel Leaf essential oil (Laurus nobilis) is steam distilled from the leaves of the shrub. It is most commonly harvested in Turkey or Bulgaria. Laurel Leaf is more commonly referred to as bay leaf. What is the difference? Bay leaf is the culinary term for laurel leaf. Bay leaves are sometimes used in flavoring soups and stews.
Laurel Leaf essential oil has an herbal, spicy, and somewhat minty scent. There is a hint of sweetness at the end, which I think must come with that slight minty-ness. It's a wonderful smelling oil! It is no wonder that she is a real stunner.
Just like an Olympian she is good at everything!
Laurel Leaf essential oil is good for cleaning. One of its main chemical constituents is eucalyptol, which is highly cleansing (and this is probably where it's herby, eucalyptus-type scent comes from). It is gentle enough to be used to help cleanse the skin, yet powerful enough to be used as a refreshing surface cleanser.
Laurel Leaf essential oil can be helpful with circulation and purification and also with lymph congestion. Try it in a massage diluted in your favorite carrier oil to help support the body's natural detoxification process.
Laurel Leaf is very supportive for the respiratory system as well, and can be used in a steam. To make a steam, pour almost boiling hot water into a heat safe bowl, set it before you on a table, and add one drop of an essential oil or blend. Drape a towel over your head to make a "tent", and then breathe deeply of the essential oil enhanced steam. Make sure you close your eyes! I find it so soothing and it usually clears me right up. Sometimes you need to do it more than once.
Combine 6 drops of tea tree, 4 drops of laurel leaf, 4 drops of eucalyptus, 2 drops of cypress, 2 drops of rosemary in a 5 ml bottle with an orifice reducer and use it throughout the season for your steams. You only need one drop per steam.
Fair warning: Do not drink this concoction.
Energetic and Emotional Properties of Laurel Leaf essential oil: Laurel Leaf uplifts the mind and can help with focus and concentration. It can help move stuck energy, both emotional and energetic, and give you a confidence boost.
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