Botanical Properties and Agriculture of Laurel

Latin: Laurus nobilis L.

Botanical Characteristics:

Laurel, which belongs to the Lauraceae family, grows naturally in the countries in the Mediterranean basin. In Turkey, it is naturally distributed in the Mediterranean, Aegean, Marmara and Black Sea coasts. Laurel is a perennial tree or shrub-shaped plant and does not shed its leaves. Male and female flowers are on separate plants and fruits are formed on female plants. Depending on the season and temperature, light yellow flowers bloom from spring onwards. The height of the plant, which branches in large numbers, can reach up to 6-7 m. Leaves are in different shades of green colour, but mostly dark green. Leaf size, leaf surface waviness and leaf margin toothiness vary considerably according to the plants.

Agriculture:

Laurel plant is a tree-shrub form plant and it has started to be cultivated in the form of closed gardens in our country. Although it is generally used in afforestation areas, in recent years, indoor garden laurel areas have started to increase. The land to be planted with laurel must be irrigated. In addition, northern slopes and partially sloping lands are more suitable for laurel cultivation. Planting density in laurel is 2x2 m between rows and over rows. 250 saplings are planted per decare. Small tractors can be used between rows. The bottoms of the saplings should be hoeed once in a while and at least 0.5 kg nitrogen fertilisation should be applied to each tree during the year. Harvesting in laurel can be done every year or every 2 years depending on maintenance, irrigation and location. Approximately 20 kg of fresh branched laurel can be harvested from each tree every 2 years. There is no limitation on the economic life of the laurel tree.

Content and Active Ingredients:

There is essential oil in laurel leaves and branches. The amount of essential oil varies between 1-3%. The main component of the essential oil is 1,8-cineole and its ratio is between 40-60%. Laurel essential oil also contains linalool α-terpinyl acetate, α-pinene β-pinene, α-terpineol, terpineol-4. Laurel extract also contains Gallic acid, Rosmarinic acid, Chlorogenic acid, Caffeic acid, p-Coumaric acid, Ferulic acid, Syringic acid, Myricetin, Quercetin, Luteolin, Apigenin, Kaempferol, Rutin, Hyperoside, Catechin and (-)-Epicatechin.

Uses:

Cosmetics: Nail care, skin and hair care, antiseptic, masks, tonic, antiaging, shampoo, soap
Food Supplements: Spice
Beverage Flavouring: Tea
Pet Health, Food, Cosmetics: Bird litter, parrot feed, dog/cat food, shampoo
Herbal Medicine: Dietary supplements, essential oils, talet/capsule supplements
Cleaning: Cologne, shampoo, soap, lotion,
Statement Form: Liquid

• What Health Benefits Does Laurel Leaf Provide?
  • Laurel leaves are rich in essential oils and antioxidants, which can help support immune health, aid digestion, and even have anti-inflammatory effects. It’s often used in tea form to relieve digestive issues and is also popular for its respiratory benefits.
• How Can Laurel Essential Oil Be Used?
  • Laurel essential oil is a versatile natural remedy! It's commonly used in skincare for its antiseptic and antiaging properties. It can also be added to hair care routines to boost shine and strength, though it should always be diluted before use.
• Where Does Laurel Grow Best?
  • The laurel plant thrives in Mediterranean climates and is naturally found along the coasts of Turkey, especially in the Mediterranean, Aegean, Marmara, and Black Sea regions. For cultivation, it’s ideal to plant it on northern slopes or slightly inclined areas with regular irrigation.
• What Are the Main Components of Laurel Essential Oil?
  • The main ingredient in laurel essential oil is 1,8-cineole, which makes up 40-60% of its composition. Other components include linalool, α-terpinyl acetate, α-pinene, and several beneficial acids and flavonoids that contribute to its therapeutic qualities.
• How Is Laurel Used in Cosmetics and Personal Care?
  • Laurel is a staple in many cosmetic products due to its soothing, antiseptic, and antiaging properties. It’s commonly found in nail care, face masks, shampoos, tonics, and soaps, adding a refreshing element and enhancing skin and hair health.