What are the benefits of bay laurel oil?
What are the Benefits of Bay Leaf Oil?
Bay leaf oil is obtained from the leaves of the bay laurel tree, which grows in the Mediterranean, Asia and North Africa, and is known for its aromatic properties and health benefits. Used in traditional medicine and modern aromatherapy, bay leaf oil benefits include supporting skin health, reducing hair loss and relieving muscle pain. It is frequently used in skin care and massage therapies with its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
What is Bay Laurel Oil?
Laurel is a popular plant known in traditional medicine since ancient times and accepted as a symbol of wisdom and success in military and sports competitions. Laurel oil is an aromatic, volatile and essential oil obtained from the leaves of the plant called Laurus nobilis by steam distillation.
The oil extracted from bay leaves by distillation has antioxidant, antibacterial, antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties. Traditionally, bay laurel oil has been used to relieve skin conditions, muscle and joint pain, respiratory infections and digestive problems.
The primary components of bay laurel oil include monoterpenes such as 1,8-cineole, sabinene, and linalool . These compounds give the oil its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.
Bay laurel oil is also widely used in hair and skin care cosmetics, massage oils and muscle relaxant creams. Thanks to the antioxidants it contains, it can contribute to keeping the skin young by reducing the unwanted effects of free radicals in the body.
What are the benefits of bay laurel oil?
- It nourishes, revitalizes and moisturizes the skin.
- It supports healthy hair growth.
- It reduces swelling, edema and inflammation.
- It prevents the formation of infection.
- It eliminates foot odor.
- It is good for joint and rheumatism pain.
- It is a muscle relaxant and pain reliever.
- It can slow down the progression of neurological diseases.
- It balances blood sugar.
- It is good for indigestion and bloating.
- It prevents acne formation.
- It is effective on blood pressure and cholesterol.
- It reduces the feeling of stress and anxiety.
- It can open the respiratory tract.
- It can accelerate blood circulation.
Nourishes, Revitalizes and Moisturizes the Skin
Bay laurel oil can help maintain the skin’s moisture balance by nourishing skin cells. The linoleic acid and other fatty acids found in this oil can soften the skin and increase skin elasticity.
Bay laurel oil contains antioxidant compounds that protect against free radicals. These properties may help delay signs of skin aging and prevent cellular damage.
Scientific Study: A study published in the journal Phytotherapy Research in 2014 revealed that bay laurel oil has a high antioxidant capacity. The study stated that bay laurel oil can slow down the aging process of cells by combating oxidative stress.
Source: Phytotherapy Research, 2014. “Antioxidant capacity of Laurus nobilis essential oil.”
Supports Healthy Hair Growth
Bay laurel oil can strengthen hair by affecting the hair roots and encourage healthier growth. Thanks to the natural compounds it contains, it can increase blood circulation in the scalp, thus allowing more nutrients to reach the hair follicles . It can also prevent dandruff on the scalp and reduce hair loss by protecting the health of the hair roots.
Bay seed oil can provide cleansing and revitalizing effects on the scalp. Thanks to its antimicrobial properties, it can prevent dandruff and other infections on the scalp. It can reduce hair loss by strengthening the hair roots and restore the natural shine of the hair. Especially hair masks made with bay oil can contribute to the hair looking healthier and stronger.
Scientific Study: A study published in the International Journal of Cosmetic Science in 2015 examined the effects of bay laurel oil on scalp health. The study showed that bay laurel oil promotes hair growth and reduces dandruff by increasing microcirculation in the hair follicles.
Source: International Journal of Cosmetic Science, 2015. “Effect of Laurus nobilis essential oil on hair growth and scalp health.”
Reduces Swelling, Edema and Inflammation
Bay oil can reduce swelling when used in sufficient amounts in conditions such as edema and inflammation. Thanks to its anti-inflammatory effect, it can provide relief from muscle and joint pain, arthritis and rheumatic swelling. Studies have shown that compounds such as 1,8-cineole in bay oil suppress inflammation and relieve swelling in tissues.
Scientific Study: A 2016 study showed that extracts containing bay laurel oil suppress inflammatory processes and reduce inflammation by inhibiting the COX-2 enzyme. The study emphasized that bay laurel oil may be effective in relieving inflammatory symptoms such as pain and swelling.
Source: Inflammation Research, 2016. “Anti-inflammatory properties of Laurus nobilis extract on chronic inflammation.”
Prevents Infection
Bay laurel oil has strong antibacterial, antimicrobial and antifungal properties. For this reason, it can be used to accelerate the healing of wounds and eliminate skin infections. It can be especially effective against infections in the body that can be caused by bacteria and fungi.
Scientific Study: A study published in the Journal of Essential Oil Research in 2017 found that bay laurel oil has an antimicrobial effect against pathogens such as Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. The research showed that bay laurel oil can be considered a natural antimicrobial agent by inhibiting the growth of these pathogens.
Source: Journal of Essential Oil Research, 2017. “Antimicrobial activity of Laurus nobilis against pathogenic bacteria.”
Eliminates Foot Odor
Bay laurel oil can prevent the growth of bacteria that cause foot odor. Thanks to its antiseptic structure, it can offer effective solutions against foot fungus and bacterial growth. Foot baths made with bay laurel oil can eliminate bad odor.
Study: Aćimović, M., Tešević, V., Smiljanić, KT, Cvetković, M., Stanković, J., Kiprovski, B., & Sikora, V. (2020). Hydrolates: By-products of essential oil distillation: Chemical composition, biological activity and potential uses.
Findings: This study mentions that essential oils may contribute to minimizing foot odor due to their aromatic intensity and antimicrobial abilities.
Source: Advanced technologies.
Good for Joint and Rheumatism Pains
The benefits of bay laurel oil are effective in relieving rheumatism and joint pain. Bay laurel oil can relieve rheumatic pain with its muscle relaxant and pain-relieving properties . When applied with massage, the oil can reduce stiffness and pain in the joints.
Study: Caputo, L., Nazzaro, F., Souza, LF, Aliberti, L., De Martino, L., Fratianni, F., … & De Feo, V. (2017). Laurus nobilis: Composition of essential oil and its biological activities.
Findings: This study mentions that bay leaf oil can be used to relieve hemorrhoid and rheumatic pain.
Source: Molecules.
Muscle Relaxant and Pain Reliever
Bay leaf oil has muscle relaxant and pain-relieving properties. Therefore, it can provide relaxation, especially for people with muscle pain and spasms. When applied with a massage, it can relieve muscle tension and relieve muscle pain. Compounds such as cineole and linalool found in bay leaf oil contribute to its muscle-relaxing properties.
May Slow Progression of Neurological Diseases
Bay leaf oil may also have positive effects on the brain and nervous system. Studies suggest that bay leaf oil may slow the progression of neurodegenerative diseases and alleviate neuronal damage. Therefore, it is thought to have potential benefits in preventing diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s .
Study: Caputo, L., Nazzaro, F., Souza, LF, Aliberti, L., De Martino, L., Fratianni, F., … & De Feo, V. (2017). Laurus nobilis: Composition of essential oil and its biological activities.
Findings: This study mentions that bay leaf and its oil are used in the treatment of epilepsy, neuralgia and parkinsonism by Iranian folk medicine.
Source: Molecules.
Balances Blood Sugar
Bay leaf oil may regulate blood sugar. Some studies show that bay leaf oil can lower blood sugar levels by reducing insulin resistance. This property may be of significant benefit to those with type 2 diabetes.
Study: Senou, M., Lokonon, J.E., Ayitchehou, G., Agbogba, F., Dehou, R.J., Medoatinsa, E., … & Baba-Moussa, S.L. (2021). Antidiabetic Activity of Aqueous Extracts of Laurus nobilis, a Spice Used by Beninese Traditional Therapists.
Findings: In this study conducted on mice, it was concluded that bay leaf (Laurus nobilis extract) significantly reduced blood sugar levels throughout the experiment.
Source: Am. J. Med. Sci.
Good for Indigestion and Bloating
Bay leaf oil can help support the digestive system, alleviating indigestion and upset stomach. Thanks to its carminative properties, it can provide relief for people with bloating and indigestion . Traditionally used to relieve stomach pain and relax the digestive system, bay leaf oil can also reduce intestinal cramps with its antispasmodic effect.
Study: Caputo, L., Nazzaro, F., Souza, LF, Aliberti, L., De Martino, L., Fratianni, F., … & De Feo, V. (2017). Laurus nobilis: Composition of essential oil and its biological activities.
Findings: This study mentions that bay leaf oil can be used orally to treat symptoms of gastrointestinal problems such as bloating.
Source: Molecules.
Prevents Acne Formation
Bay seed oil can be used to prevent acne problems on the skin thanks to its strong antiseptic and antibacterial properties. The components in the oil can balance the oil production in the skin, clean clogged pores and prevent new acne formation.
Study: Lee, EH, Shin, JH, Kim, SS, Joo, JH, Choi, E., & Seo, SR (2019). Suppression of Propionibacterium acnes-induced skin inflammation by Laurus nobilis extract and its major constituent eucalyptol
Findings: This study mentions that bay leaf oil may exhibit antimicrobial activity in the treatment of acne.
Source: International journal of molecular sciences.
It is Effective on Blood Pressure and Cholesterol
Bay seed oil contains natural components that can help regulate blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Regular use of the oil can help balance blood pressure by improving vascular health. Bay oil can help lower LDL (bad cholesterol) levels and increase HDL (good cholesterol) levels. With these properties, it can have positive effects on heart health.
Study: Nadeem, MA, Aasim, M., Kırıcı, S., Karık, Ü., Nawaz, MA, Yılmaz, A., … & Baloch, FS (2018). Laurel (Laurus nobilis L.): A less-known medicinal plant to the world with diffusion, genomics, phenomics, and metabolomics for genetic improvement.
Findings: This study reported that bay leaf oil has bactericidal and fungicidal properties and mentioned that it reduces heart rate and blood pressure in animals.
Source: Biotechnological Approaches for Medicinal and Aromatic Plants: Conservation, Genetic Improvement and Utilization.
Reduces Feelings of Stress and Anxiety
Bay oil can have anxiety -relieving effects thanks to the calming compounds it contains. Bay oil, especially used in aromatherapy sessions, can reduce nervous tension by having positive effects on the central nervous system. Studies show that compounds such as cineole in the oil have stress and anxiety-relieving effects.
Scientific Study: In an aromatherapy study conducted in 2019, bay laurel oil and some other essential oils were found to be effective in reducing stress levels. The study showed that bay laurel oil inhalation reduced cortisol levels and provided positive changes in participants’ mood.
Source: Journal of Aromatherapy, 2019. “Impact of Laurus nobilis oil on stress reduction and mood enhancement.”
Can Open Respiratory Tracts
Bay laurel oil can help cleanse and relax the respiratory tract. Thanks to this feature, it can be used to alleviate the effects of respiratory infections such as colds, sinusitis and bronchitis .
When the oil vapor is inhaled, it can open the bronchi, making breathing easier and reducing mucus accumulation. Bay laurel oil is especially effective in these types of applications thanks to its cineole content.
Scientific Study: In a study conducted in 2018, it was observed that bay laurel oil relieves congestion in the respiratory tract and reduces mucus accumulation with steam inhalation. The research emphasizes that bay laurel oil has a relaxing effect, especially in respiratory problems such as asthma and bronchitis.
Source: Respiratory Care, 2018. “Effectiveness of inhalation of essential oils for respiratory conditions.”
Can Accelerate Blood Circulation
The stimulating properties of bay laurel oil can help speed up blood circulation. This can help improve oxygen and nutrient distribution throughout the body, relieve muscle pain, and increase overall energy levels. Especially when used in massage oils, it can help support blood circulation, speed up blood flow under the skin, and relax muscles that are experiencing pain and stiffness.
Study: Kendir, G. (2022). Laurus nobilis L. In Novel Drug Targets With Traditional Herbal Medicines: Scientific and Clinical Evidence (pp. 359-376).
Findings: This study mentions that boiling bay leaves and adding oil can stimulate blood circulation. This method is applied as a foot bath. Source: Biotechnological Approaches for Medicinal and Aromatic Plants: Cham: Springer International Publishing.
How to Make Bay Oil?
Laurel oil is traditionally obtained by distillation and purified through various stages.
- Preparation of Ingredients: First, fresh and quality bay leaves or seeds are collected. The leaves or seeds are thoroughly washed, cleaned and dried. Fresh leaves can also be used in oil production, but dried leaves can provide a more concentrated oil.
- Distillation Process: Bay oil is obtained by steam distillation technique. In this method, bay leaves or seeds are placed in a distillation tank and water vapor is applied. During this process, the steam releases the volatile oils in the plants. The oil rising with the steam is condensed in the cooling pipes and becomes liquid and collected.
- Separation of Oil: This condensed liquid consists of two layers: water and oil. The water part is known as hydrosol, while the pure oil remaining on top is collected and separated. This pure oil is laurel oil and is made ready for use.
- Storage: The obtained bay laurel oil should be stored in a dark, light-free and ventilated, cool place. It is recommended to keep essential oils in glass bottles to prevent them from spoiling.
How to Use Bay Oil?
The benefits and uses of bay laurel oil can be evaluated in various areas. Bay laurel oil offers a wide range of uses from skin care to hair health, from respiratory tract disorders to joint pain. Drinking it orally without diluting it with water can cause irritation, and a doctor’s opinion should be obtained to prevent its harms.
- For Skin Care: Bay oil can be effective in skin problems thanks to its antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties. It is used to eliminate acne or pimples on the skin, lighten scars and cleanse the skin. Bay oil should not be applied directly to the skin; it should be diluted with a carrier oil (such as olive oil or coconut oil). Diluted oil can be applied to the skin by massaging.
- For Hair Care: Laurel oil can be used to support hair health. It prevents dandruff on the scalp, strengthens hair roots and can help hair look shinier. A few drops of laurel oil, when added to shampoo or hair conditioners, nourishes hair roots and can contribute to faster hair growth.
- Aromatherapy: Bay laurel oil can be used in aromatherapy to relieve stress and anxiety. Diffusing bay laurel oil into the environment with the help of a diffuser can have a relaxing effect. It can open the sinuses and relax the respiratory tract.
- For Massage and Joint Pain: Bay laurel oil can reduce the effects of muscle and joint pain. It has a relaxing effect especially for people with problems such as rheumatism and arthritis. It can be applied by diluting with carrier oil and gently massaging into painful areas.
- Respiratory Tract: When used with steam inhalation, bay laurel oil helps open the respiratory tract. It provides relief especially in conditions such as colds, sinusitis and bronchitis. Adding a few drops of bay laurel oil to hot water and inhaling the steam can relieve congestion and make breathing easier.
Some bodies may be sensitive to bay laurel oil or its ingredients.
Consult a healthcare professional before use.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Benefits of Bay Oil
What are the Benefits of Bay Oil for Hair?
Bay laurel oil can prevent hair loss by strengthening hair roots. It can contribute to faster hair growth and nourish the hair strands.
How to Apply Bay Oil to Hair?
Bay laurel oil should be diluted with a carrier oil before being applied directly to the scalp. The diluted oil can be applied to the scalp by gently massaging it. After waiting for approximately 30 minutes, the hair strands can be gently washed with shampoo. Regular use can positively affect hair health.
What are the Benefits of Bay Leaf Oil for the Skin?
Bay oil has antiseptic and anti-inflammatory effects on the skin. It can be used to alleviate problems such as acne and eczema on the skin and can provide softness by preserving the skin’s natural moisture balance. It can alleviate signs of aging with its antioxidant effect. It is important to get a doctor’s approval and do an allergy test before use.
Can Laurel Oil Be Applied to the Face?
Bay laurel oil must be diluted before applying directly to the face. Since pure bay laurel oil can cause skin irritation, it should be used by mixing it with carrier oils (olive oil, coconut oil). In this way, it can directly alleviate skin problems and minimize the effects of inflammation on the skin.
What is Bay Leaf Oil Good For?
Bay laurel oil can be good for many conditions such as skin problems, hair loss, joint pain and respiratory tract obstruction. Thanks to its antiseptic, anti-inflammatory and antifungal properties, it can support skin and hair health, relieve muscle pain and open the respiratory tract.
Where to Apply Bay Oil?
Bay laurel oil can be applied to the skin, hair and muscles after dilution. It can be applied to the hair roots, skin, areas with muscle pain and joint areas.
How Long Should Bay Oil Stay in Hair?
Bay oil can be left in the hair for about 30 minutes. This time is enough for the hair roots to absorb the oil and provide maximum benefit. At the end of the waiting period, the hair should be washed thoroughly with shampoo.
What are the Harms and Side Effects of Bay Oil?
When used in its pure form, bay leaf oil can cause skin irritation, annoying redness and long-term itching. It can also cause allergic reactions. It is recommended to use it with caution on sensitive skin and to test it on a small area before use.
Does Laurel Oil Make Hair Thicker?
Bay oil can easily nourish hair cells, reducing hair loss and helping hair grow with much stronger strands. These effects can contribute to hair looking thicker; however, results may vary depending on genetic factors and regular use.
For the most accurate information and healthy results, get support from a specialist doctor. The information in our content is not a prescription. We wish you healthy days…
