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BAY (Laurus nobilis)
Key: energy
Bay, Sweet Bay or Bay Laurel, is a native of the Mediterranean area. Usually planted in gardens for its aromatic leaves, bay rarely grows higher than twenty-five feet in Britain though it can grow well over twice this height in warmer climates. The entire tree has a high content of aromatic essential oil – the glossy evergreen leaves and smooth, dark purple-brown twigs burn easily with a heavy scented smoke. It is possible that bay smoke was an ingredient of the incense used by Classical oracles, as it is narcotic and excitant. Internally it is a dangerous oil, increasing blood pressure and heart rate. Externally it can be a useful warming poultice for aches and bruises. From Roman times it has had associations with Apollo and protection from harm, both from disease and spiritual harm. The trees are male or female with yellow flowers clustering at the leaf bases in spring. Female trees produce glossy black berries.
Bay essence has a deep-rooted effect on the whole of the body. It gives an energising boost that some may find too strong for comfort. Bay is a deep red energy, strongly grounding, and this may give rise to explosions of energy as blocks are released. Even as a vibrational essence bay will encourage the blood flow and so it can be useful where there is sluggish energy or poor circulation at the extremities. Those with heart conditions should avoid using bay or use only with extreme caution. (Hawthorn and blackthorn may be safer alternatives).
Bay can encourage the expression of suppressed or hidden emotions, particularly strong ones like anger. Combined with apple an effective cleansing of the emotional system can be encouraged.
The tree is very protective. It enhances the entire meridian system and stimulates the physical. At the other end of the spectrum , bay draws down a powerful vortex of spiritual energy through the upper chakras which can remove and neutralise negative thought-forms and other harmful influences.
Signature: The deep, pungent red oil characterises the protective, fiery, and earthily stimulating qualities of this tree.
Comment: The Oracle of Delphi was the primary religious centre of ancient Greece and was under the protection of the Sun God Apollo. Bay laurel was sacred to Apollo.
Working with the wood fills the air with pungent scent. It has a smooth grain and can have an unusual grey-purple tinge.
Bay oil because of its toxicity is not easily available. It does however make an excellent psychic shield. The smallest dab on the finger can be rubbed around doors and window frames to “keep at bay” all sorts of psychic mischief.