Laurel

Laurel is a plant that belongs to the Lauraceae family. In perfumery we use the bay leaf also called noble bay, not to be confused with the oleander. Originally from Asia Minor, it was quickly established in the Mediterranean basin. We find it especially in Greece, where it is widely used to crown the winners of ancient ceremonies and for its therapeutic properties. An evergreen shrub, the laurel is now widespread in French gardens. To obtain an essential oil, it is possible to distill the leaves of the plant with steam. This essence delivers camphorated, aromatic notes with spicy undertones, mostly used in men’s fragrances. It is also possible to distill the flowers of the shrub in order to create a much more feminine raw material, with floral and almond nuances.