+38 068 277 99 23
Bay leaf is arguably the most popular spice in the kitchen. It’s commonly added to soups, stews, and main dishes, and is a staple in preserving cucumbers, tomatoes, zucchinis, pattypans, and other garden produce. But beyond cooking, bay leaves can be used to make bay leaf oil — a natural remedy widely valued for its cosmetic and health-boosting properties.
Bay Leaf: description and benefits
The spice known as bay leaf comes from the tree Laurus nobilis, or noble laurel. In its native region of Asia Minor, it’s traditionally added to salty dishes and used to make medicinal tinctures to treat skin issues and boost the immune system.
Today, the top producers of bay leaves include Guatemala, Portugal, Greece, Italy, Albania, Turkey, and France.
The health benefits of bay leaf come from its rich chemical composition. Bay leaves are packed with:
- Phytoncides;
- Antioxidants;
- Minerals: sodium, potassium, selenium, zinc, iron, calcium;
- Vitamins: C, A, and B-group;
- Tannins (including resins);
- Essential oils (3–5%);
When bay oil is made, all these compounds are transferred into the oil, creating a product rich in omega fatty acids, vitamins, minerals and antioxidants.
Types of Bay Leaf Oil
There are several types of bay oil:
- Essential oil: Obtained from bay leaves using steam distillation.
- Infused oil: Made by soaking dried or fresh bay leaves in a carrier oil.
- Cherry laurel oil: Extracted from the leaves of the cherry laurel (Prunus laurocerasus) and used mainly in pharmaceuticals.
Uses and benefits of infused Bay Leaf Oil
Bay oil can be used both topically and internally. It’s suitable for hair care, skincare, homemade beauty recipes, or massage therapy. When applied to the skin, it can:
- Reduce acne and inflammation (thanks to its antiseptic properties);
- Deeply hydrate and firm the skin (by locking in moisture);
- Smooth fine lines and wrinkles (especially «crow’s feet»);
Taken internally (in small amounts and under proper guidance), bay oil can boost immunity, speed up recovery from colds and flu, soothe dry cough, and relieve nasal congestion.
Bay leaves and bay oil also help the body eliminate excess salts, which is especially beneficial for people with joint issues and women going through perimenopause or menopause.
How to make Bay Leaf Oil at home
You can buy bay oil or make it yourself easily. You’ll need fresh or dried bay leaves and any high-quality base oil. The quality of the base oil significantly affects the flavor, aroma, and health benefits of the finished product.
DIY Bay Leaf Oil Recipe:
- Heat 200 ml of your chosen base oil to about 40°C (just warm);
- Add 100 g of slightly crushed bay leaves;
- Stir well, seal tightly, and store in a dark place for 10–12 days;
- After infusing, strain the oil and refrigerate it;
Organic Base Oils from TM CraftOil – the best foundation for homemade Bay Leaf Oil
CraftOil, a Ukrainian brand specializing in fresh, cold-pressed oils, offers a wide range of organic base oils ideal for making bay oil at home. Choose from: Flaxseed oil, Hemp oil, Castor oil, Milk thistle oil, Poppy seed oil, Apricot kernel oil, Pumpkin seed oil, and more.
All CraftOil products are made from certified, eco-friendly nuts, seeds, and grains. The oils are cold-pressed using custom-made wooden or polymer barrels to preserve the oil’s natural structure.
Every bottle is pressed on the day of order and shipped quickly across Ukraine and even to Europe, ensuring customers receive fresh, 100% natural oils.
Want to know more about our products? Unsure which oil is best for making DIY bay leaf oil? Our consultants are happy to help! Reach out via messenger or leave a request on our website.
