Bay laurel

Bay Laurel (Laurus nobilis), also known as sweet bay, true laurel, Grecian laurel, or simply laurel, is an aromatic evergreen tree or large shrub in the family Lauraceae, native to the Mediterranean region.

Description

The Bay Laurel is a large shrub or small tree that can reach up to 10 to 18 meters in height. The leaves are 6–12 cm long and 2–4 cm broad, with a characteristic glossy dark green color. The flowers are small, pale yellow-green, and are followed by small black berries.

Cultivation and uses

The Bay Laurel is widely cultivated as an ornamental plant in regions with Mediterranean or oceanic climates, and as a houseplant or greenhouse plant in colder regions. It is used in cooking for its distinctive flavor and fragrance, and the leaves are used in the preparation of the laurel wreath, a symbol of honor in ancient Greece and Rome.

History

The Bay Laurel was very important in ancient Greek and Roman culture. The leaves were used to crown victors in athletic competitions and in poetic meets. In mythology, the nymph Daphne was transformed into a laurel tree to escape the amorous pursuit of the god Apollo.

Medicinal uses

In traditional medicine, Bay Laurel leaves and oil have been used for their astringent, carminative, diaphoretic, digestive, diuretic, emetic, and stimulant properties. However, these uses have not been scientifically validated.

See also

• List of culinary herbs and spices
• List of plants used in herbalism

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