NEGATIVE EFFECTS OF LAUREL
- Contact dermatitis: Because it contains eugenol, laurel can cause dermatitis on the skin and irritation of the digestive mucosa.
Curiously, laurel dermatitis is very common, and it is known as ” Hat band dermatitis”. It is responsible for the linear eczema wearing a hat can produce on the forehead.
This is because in Spain laurel oil was used in the manufacture of hats until 1962.
Laurel tree aspect
Laurel tree aspect- Vomiting: Bay leaves at high doses are emetic.
- Heartburn: large amounts of laurel can cause heartburn. These effects are due to its stimulant properties on the digestive system and gastric mucosa.
- Asthma: Leaves and laurel essential oil can cause asthmatic reactions.
- Allergy: like any plant, some people may develop allergic reactions at bay. Early symptoms of allergy can include rashes, itching, swelling (especially of the face, tongue and throat) and dizziness.
Seek medical advice immediately if you have any of these signs of allergy.
- Skin spots: Laurel essential oil is phototoxic, that is to say, it reacts with sun exposure. Its use can cause the appearance of spots on the skin.
- There is little literature about the side effects of this plant. If you have a disease or are taking medication, consult your doctor before starting treatment with laurel.
| Laurel essential oil should not be given to children under 12 years or pregnant women or during lactation period. |
More information on laurel.
This article was endorsed by Elisenda Carballido - Dietitian nutritionist. Postgraduate in Phytotherapy and master in Nutrition and Metabolism.
