Laurel Sauce: An Aromatic Plant With A Thousand Virtues

The bay laurel (Laurus nobilis) is a shrub of the Lauraceae family, with a straight stem measuring 2 to 6 m in height. Its leaves, lanceolate in shape, alternate, leathery, with wavy edges, are dark green on their upper side and lighter on the lower side. They give off an aromatic smell when crushed. Its whitish flowers, grouped by 4 to 5 in small umbels, appear in March-April. It is a dioecious plant, with male and female flowers arranged on separate plants. Its fruits are small ovoid drupes, purplish-black in color.

Bay leaf is also sought after for its medicinal virtues. As an infusion, promotes digestion and fights intestinal cramps. It stimulates the appetite, and reduces fever in case of infection. When used externally, it is known to fight against rheumatism. It is also used to make the famous traditional Aleppo soap.

Use

• Culinary: excellent seasoning for soups, stews, sauces and creams, bay leaf also flavors game, terrines and marinades. Bay leaves are an essential component of the bouquet garni.
• Medicinal: bay leaf infusion facilitates digestion.
• In the garden: this slow-growing tree provides pleasant shade. Sometimes cut as a topiary in the garden, it is very decorative in a pot.

Dosage

• As an infusion, macerate approximately 15 g of bay leaves in 1 liter of water. Drink 2 to 3 cups per day, after meals.
• In decoction, triple the dose of bay leaf, keeping the same quantity of water.
• As an essential oil, use bay leaf sparingly, as should be done for all massage oils.
• For hair and skin care, use fresh water mixed with a handful of semi-crushed leaves. It is possible to add a few berries.

Why burn bay leaf (sauce) 

• For those who want to create a peaceful and relaxing ambiance in their apartment, you should try bay leaves (sauce). Indeed, one of the most significant properties of this plant is its ability to relax. In order for the leaves to burn, they must be dry.
• It is unthinkable to tear off leaves from the plant and burn them on the spot. Cut a branch and hang it upside down in a dry place in your apartment so that the water it contains can evaporate. All that will remain in the leaves is the essential oil that composes them. As you may know, a leaf rich in oil and deprived of water will burn much more quickly.