Bay Leaf

About Bay Leaf

Bay laurel trees can live 50+ years and reach 18 meters. Ancient Greeks crowned victors with bay wreaths - the original laurel wreath (the word laureate comes from laurel). The Pythian Games at Delphi were crowned with bay. It was considered sacred to Apollo. The leaves contain eucalyptol, which has anti-inflammatory properties. They must be removed before eating because the edges can cut the digestive tract. Fresh bay leaves are much more potent than dried. The tree is drought-tolerant once established. California bay has a stronger flavor but can cause headaches in some people.