Latin Name:  Laurus nobilis
Part of Plant: Leaf
Country of Origin: Crete
Method of Production: Steam Distillation
Laurus nobilis, also known as Bay Leaf, Bay Laurel, Sweet Bay, True Bay, or Laurel Leaf, is a member of the Lauraceae botanical family.  It is an evergreen tree or shrub native to Western Europe and the Mediterranean region that is best known for the use of its leaves to season cooking.  Even though they all are sometimes called Bay, it should not be confused with Pimenta racemosa better known as West Indian Bay or Bay Rum or Umbellularia californica that is also known as California Bay or California Laurel.
 
Laurel Leaf essential oil blends well with cineole rich oils as well as most fir, herb, spice, and citrus oils.  Try diffusing with Grapefruit, Eucalyptus, Rosemary, Peppermint, or Cardamon for a fresh, invigorating aroma for those days that you just do not want to get out of the bed.   It may assist with the appearance of skin when properly diluted and applied topically in very low doses as part of a blend with oils like Lavender, Frankincense, and Helichrysum.  It can also be used properly diluted as part of a blend with oils like Marjoram, Copaiba, and Ginger in lotion or massage oils, for a soothing massage after a long workout. 
 
Usage ideas:
Add a few drops of essential oils to a diffuser, cotton round, or a tissue.
For convenience on the go…
Properly dilute with your choice of carrier oils in a roller bottle.
Add up to a total of 15 drops of essential oils to a personal aromatic inhaler (aroma stick).
 
Safety: 
Dermal Max: 0.5% 
Essential oils high in 1,8-cineole can cause CNS and breathing problems in young children. Do not apply to or near the face of infants or young children.  Use caution with children under two and on sensitive, diseased, or damaged skin.  Possible carcinogen and mucous membrane irritant.  If you are pregnant, nursing, or under a doctor’s care, please consult with a healthcare professional prior to use.  Avoid contact with eyes, inner ears, and sensitive areas.  Keep out of reach of children and pets.  If swallowed, seek medical attention or contact a Poison Control Center.  Do not use undiluted essential oils topically.  Possible skin sensitivity.  Do not use on broken skin.  Watch for any possible interactions or side effects.  Discontinue use if any reaction including skin irritation occurs and if condition persists, seek medical attention.  Be sure you are familiar with all safety precautions including any recommended dermal maximums before use.  
 
DISCLAIMER: 
This product is not intended to treat, cure, or prevent any disease.  The information on this site is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and is for educational and informational purposes only.  These statements have not been evaluated by the U.S. Food & Drug Administration (FDA).

 
References:
Sheppard-Hanger, S. (1995). The Aromatherapy Practitioner Reference Manual. Atlantic Institute of Aromatherapy
 
Tisserand, R. and Young, R. (2014). Essential Oil Safety: A Guide for Health Care Professionals, Second Edition. Churchill Livingstone
 
Burfield, T. (2016). Natural Aromatic Materials: Odours & Origins, Second Edition. Atlantic Institute of Aromatherapy