Key Gems:
💎 Tonic 
 
Bay leaf, also known as bay laurel, is used mainly to treat upper digestive tract disorders and to ease arthritic aches and pains. It is settling to the stomach and has a tonic effect, stimulating the appetite and the secretion of digestive juices. When used as an ingredient in cooking, bay leaves promote the digestion and absorption of food. The leaves have much the same kind of positive effect as spearmint and rosemary om assisting the breakdown of heavy food, especially meat. Bay leaf has also been used to promote the onset of menstrual periods. The essential oil is chiefly employed as a friction rub, being well diluted in a carrier oil and massaged into aching muscles and joints. A decoction of the leaves may be added to a bath to ease aching limbs.
 
Element: Fire
Planet: Sun
Magical Uses: Protection, psychic powers, healing, purification, and strength. Bay is used in clairvoyance and wisdom brews, although its taste is strong. Bay leaves are placed beneath the pillow to induce prophetic dreams and are also burned to cause visions. It is a protection and purification herb par excellence and is worn as an amulet to ward off negativity and evil, burned or scattered during exorcism rituals, placed in the windows to protect against lightning, and hung up to prevent poltergeists from working any mischief in the house. A sprig of bay is used to sprinkle water during purification ceremonies, and the tree planted near the home protects its inhabitants against sickness. Bay leaves mixed with sandalwood can be burned to remove curses and evil spirits.