Bay oil is deep yellow coloured oil which has sweet, fresh and spicy aroma. Bay oil was very popular with the Romans, who thought that the herb was symbolic of wisdom, peace and protection. The oil has various therapeutic properties. It is a stimulant, expectorant, antiseptic, antibiotic, antispasmodic, astringent, Emmenagogue, febrifuge, insecticide, sedative, stomachic, sudorific, tonic analgesic, carminative, and anti neuralgic. It is widely used in food, lotion, massage oil, compress, preparing perfumes etc. The oil mixes well with Lavender oil, Eucalyptus oil, Lemon oil, Rosemary oil, Petitgrain oil, Geranium oil, Citronella oil, Cinnamon oil and Ylang Ylang oil.
Description of Bay Tree and Leaf
The bay tree grows to about 30 feet. It comprises of long aromatic lance-shaped leaves, small white-yellow flowers and black berries. The bay leaf is popularly known as the tamalpattra or dark leaf in Sanskrit. It is often known as tejpatta in contemporary Hindi language. Bay tree grows wild in the West Indies and Venezuela Under myrtle family. It is also grown in Europe under the laurel family.
Extraction of Bay Oil
The oil is extracted from the leaves of the trees that are more than for years old and are subjected to steam distillation.
Health Benefits of Bay Oil
Bay leaves comprise of notable plant-derived compounds, vitamins and minerals which offer myriad benefits. Some of the benefits are as follows:
•The oil is good general tonic.
•Bay oil is used in the treatment of rheumatism, neuralgia and muscular pain.
•It is a strong pulmonary antiseptic and is good for colds, influenza, bronchitis, sinusitis and Pneumonia.
•It is also a good antiseptic for the respiratory system.
•It is good for digestion.
•It heals stomach pain and expels wind.
•It uplifts people who tend to be depressive or lack stamina.
•It boosts appetite.
•It is good for the hair. It helps to get rid of dandruff, fights hair loss and improves the health of the scalp.
•It can also be used to combat skin infections and heal bruises.
Caution about Bay Oil
If it is used in excess, then it can cause cramping. Pregnant women should avoid it.
