Laurel Bay - Δάφνη - Laurus Nobilis
Each pack contains ½ cup (125ml) of the Herb. The weight varies due to the density of each herb.
Basic Medicinal Properties:
Relieves pain. Aids in wound healing. Regulates menstrual flow. Supports digestive health.
Additional Details
Antimicrobial Action
The essential oils concentrated in bay leaves exhibit antimicrobial properties that are particularly effective against bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus, Enterococcus sp., Escherichia coli, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. These bacteria can cause infections in the skin, gastrointestinal system, and urinary tract.
Bay leaves also possess antifungal properties, which have been shown to be effective against certain fungal species.
Type 2 Diabetes Management
Bay leaves improve insulin function, which is responsible for transporting glucose into the cells. They can help regulate blood sugar levels, making them beneficial for both the prevention and management of diabetes.
Cholesterol Regulation
Bay leaf extracts, including eucalyptol and antioxidant polyphenols, can help regulate cholesterol levels by reducing LDL cholesterol and triglycerides while increasing HDL cholesterol. This effect may contribute to the prevention of cardiovascular diseases such as atherosclerosis, myocardial infarction, and stroke.
Relief from Gastrointestinal Issues
Bay leaves contain antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antispasmodic properties that may aid in treating digestive disorders, such as ulcers, and relieve bloating.
They also contain tannins, which have strong astringent properties beneficial in treating diarrhoea.
Active compounds in bay leaves support the production of gastric enzymes and mucus secretion, enhancing digestion and protecting the stomach lining from injury.
Pain Relief
Bay leaves possess anti-inflammatory properties that may help alleviate rheumatic pain, joint inflammation, arthritis, sprains, and bruises.
Tumour Prevention
The active compounds and essential oils in bay leaves contain antioxidant and anticancer properties, which may help prevent the development of cancer cells.
Prevention of Kidney Stones
Bay leaf extract, in combination with other medicinal herbs, may help prevent kidney stone formation. It has been found to reduce the amount of urease, an enzyme linked to an increased risk of kidney stone production.
Enhancing Cognitive Function
Bay leaves contain antioxidant properties that may help improve memory and reduce cognitive decline associated with ageing, including neurodegenerative disorders.
About the Herb
Laurel bay (Laurus nobilis) is an evergreen tree or large shrub from the Lauraceae family, native to the Mediterranean region. It is widely recognised for its fragrant, leathery leaves, which have been used in both culinary and medicinal traditions for thousands of years.
Historically, laurel bay held great symbolic significance in ancient Greece and Rome. It was closely associated with victory, wisdom, and divine protection, often woven into wreaths to crown poets, athletes, and military leaders. The Greek god Apollo, associated with prophecy and enlightenment, was strongly linked to the laurel tree, and its leaves were used in rituals at the Oracle of Delphi.
Once part of vast laurel forests that covered the Mediterranean Basin during a more humid climatic period, Laurus nobilis has adapted to drier conditions over time. While much of these ancient forests have disappeared, remnants can still be found in parts of southern Europe, North Africa, and the Canary Islands.
Beyond its historical and cultural significance, laurel bay remains an essential culinary herb and a respected medicinal plant, valued for its role in promoting digestion, reducing inflammation, and supporting cardiovascular health. Today, its leaves are still widely used in herbal medicine, perfumery, and cooking, continuing a tradition that spans centuries.