Bay leaves have a rich history in Western culture. They are a symbol of the Greek god Apollo and the slender, slightly silvery leaves from which is crown is constructed. Wreaths made to look like Apollo’s were given to victorious warriors, winners of sporting events and the great poets.
They are mildly narcotic, a characteristic contributing not only to their reputation as an aphrodisiac but also with an ability to see the future. (Greek priestesses would eat bay leaves to aid in achieving the trance-like state necessary for delivering prophecies.
Despite its popularity in Mediterranean cuisine and culture, Mediterranean bay originated in the Orient. The United States has its own variety, Californian bay laurel, which has a slightly stronger flavor that the leaves imported from Asia and the Middle East.
Today, bay is incorporated into cuisines around the world. It is most commonly used dried to add richness and complexity to a dish.
As a homeopathic medicine, bay is used in massage oil for its ability to improve circulation, (and everyone needs healthy blood flow!)
