This summer during the Component Blending class, I made a Laurel Leaf hydrosol blend that has become my new favorite!
Recipe
2 oz Laurel Leaf Hydrosol (Bay Laurel – Laurus nobilis)
10 drops Balsam Fir essential oil – Abies balsamea
10 drops Pinon Pine essential oil — Pinus edulis
10 drops Hemlock essential oil – Tsuga canadensis
Talk about refreshing! The aromas of the forest blended with the slightly camphoraceous, sweet, and spicy undertones of the Laurel hydrosol are extraordinary. Each time I spray it, I’m impressed with the richness and depth of the scent.
Historically, Bay Laurel was a symbol of wisdom, both acquired and intuitive. The botanical name Laurus nobilis is thought to derive from the Celtic word “laur” meaning green and “nobilis” meaning noble.
From a chemical component perspective
I like to use Balsam Fir as an antirheumatic, to prevent or relieve rheumatic pain and inflammation. It generally has about 35% beta pinene, which was found to be a potent scavenger of hydroxyl radicals. This is a possible explanation for its current use in topical products for the relief of muscular and rheumatic pain.
Pinon Pine has an amazing aroma, adding a coniferous, balsamic, woody, and fresh scent to the blend. We also get potential antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antispasmodic effects from the alpha pinene content.
Hemlock has an unusually high percentage of bornyl acetate for a conifer. This suggests a sedative and calming effect, perfect to calm tightness in the lungs and chest.
Share your blends
Do you have any hydrosol and essential oil blends you love? Let’s share some recipes in the comment section below!
Andrea Butje
Latest posts by Andrea Butje (see all)
- Make Your Own Aromatic Beeswax Candle - June 19, 2013
- Need Your Deodorant Crisis Resolved? - June 12, 2013
- Chemistry and Blending with Pine, Spruce and Fir Oils - June 5, 2013
{ 2 comments… read them below or add one }
I just made and essential oil/hydrosol blend this morning for “New Beginnings.” Jasmine, Ylang Ylang, Frankincense and Neroli in Sweet Grass hydrosol.
Nice recipe Andrea……… I can smell it up north! Since it’s your favorite now, are you using it as an air freshener or for something more specific?