Laurel Leaf- an ancient oil used to benefit mind, body and soul!
Laurel Leaf- a.k.a Laurus nobilis is a aromatic small evergreen tree originally from the Mediterranean. It has green smooth leaves and is in the flowering plant family Lauraceae. It is native to the Mediterranean region and is used as bay leaf for seasoning in cooking. Its common names include bay tree, bay laurel, sweet bay, true laurel, Grecian laurel,or simply laurel.
History:
Laurus nobilis is featured prominently in classical Roman-Greco culture. Laurel leaves were used as a symbol of victory, success and high status in both the Greek and Roman cultures. It was also associated with immortality, it was used in rituals for purification, prosperity and health. A wreath of bay laurels was given as the prize at the Pythian Games because the games were in honor of Apollo, and the laurel was one of his symbols.
The connection of Laurel leaf and Apollo- In Ancient Greece, the laurel plant was called daphne, after the mythic mountain nymph of the same name. In the myth of Apollo and Daphne, the god Apollo fell in love with Daphne, a priestess of Gaia (Mother Earth), and when he tried to seduce her she pled for help to Gaia, who transported her to Crete. In Daphne's place Gaia left a laurel tree, which Apollo fashioned wreaths out of to console himself. In modern Italy laurel wreaths are still worn as a crown by graduating school students.
Traditional Medical Uses:
In herbal medicine, laurel has been used as an astringent and salve for open wounds. It is a traditional folk remedy for rashes caused by poison ivy, poison oak, and stinging nettle, by creating is a compress soaked in boiled bay leaves. Roman naturalists believed it aided in the treatment of a variety of conditions: paralysis, spasms, sciatica, bruises, headaches, catarrhs, ear infections, and rheumatism.
The Essential Oil and its Benefits
When steam distilled,a powerful fragrant essential oil is produced. Its aroma is herbal, minty, and refreshing.
Laurel Leaf essential oil is composed of two primary constituents, 1,8-cineole (eucalyptol) and alpha-terpinyl acetate. This blend of chemical constitutes emits a strong, herbaceous, and slightly spicy aroma that can be used in a variety of aromatic and topical practices.
- Laurel Leaf has outstanding cleansing and soothing properties, it is excellent as a natural cleanser and skin soother. Experimental research has shown that Laurel Leaf may benefit skin health by promoting clear skin and reduce the appearance of blemishes. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/12916069
- Research of the cleansing properties of Laurel Leaf, suggests it may also have efficient antibacterial surface cleansing agent.
- Due to its soothing properties, Laurel Leaf may be a great addition to an aromatherapy massage.
- It promotes an environment of courage & confidence
- It supports feelings of concentration, focus, and clarity.
Uses:
Diffuse or simply take a few deep inhales of Laurel Leaf essential oil when you need an invigorating, uplifting aroma.
Add a Drop to your facial cleanser, make a homemade toner or add a drop to your moisturizer to support your skin health
Place a couple drops in your morning shower to promote an aroma of confidence, clarity, and courage.
Use for a soothing massage that is invigorating to the senses.
Pair with Lemon essential oil; add a few drops of each to a spray bottle with water for a natural surface cleanser.
Laurel Leaf is not typically available as a single note essential oil, but this month you can get a Free bottle with your loyalty rewards. Laurel Leaf essential oil is included in the doTERRA
Breathe® Respiratory Blend.
This blend supports our respiratory system, promoting clear airways and easy breathing. The Laurel is excellent in this due to its cleansing and soothing properties.
This month there is an incredible opportunity to receive a 5 mL bottle of Laurel Leaf for FREE (a $25 value!) by placing a 125 PV Loyalty Rewards Program order from August 1st through the 15th! Not a Loyalty Rewards Member yet?
Learn about the benefits:
You can easily sign up when you go to place an order this month and get your free bottle of Laurel leaf oil. Just contact me if you have any questions! I am always here to help!