Nature

Bay leaf

Pleasantly aromatic bay leaf or bay laurel is one of the well-recognized leafy-spices since ancient times, revered for its medicinal as well as the culinary values. In legends, bay laurel is highly regarded in astrology science as the tree of the Sun god, under the celestial sign of Leo.

Botanically, bay tree belongs to the family of Lauraceae of the genus; Laurus. Scientific name: Bay laurel is thought to have originated in Asia Minor region and from where it spread to all over the Mediterranean and other parts of Asia during earlier times.

The bay plant is a tall, conical, evergreen tree growing more than 30 feet in height. Yellow or greenish white, star shaped flowers appear in clusters during early spring, which subsequently produce dark green-purplish single seed berry. The leaves are elliptic and shiny dark green about 3-4 inches long, rather thick, and leathery.

The leaves give off a sweet aroma when broken and added to dish. When slightly wilted and dried, they are strongly aromatic. The dried fruit is also being used as a flavoring agent in cuisines.