The real laurel (Laurus nobilis) has been used in the kitchen as a spice and for medicinal purposes for centuries. As with many other plants, confusion with similar-looking species poses a potential risk of poisoning.
Is the laurel poisonous?
Are bay leaves poisonous? Bay leaves of the true laurel (Laurus nobilis) are not poisonous and can be used both fresh and dried for seasoning. However, there is a risk of confusion with the poisonous cherry laurel, whose leaves look similar but are dangerous to he alth.
The important difference between spiced laurel and other species used for laurel hedges
A laurel hedge made from real laurel (Laurus nobilis) does not pose a safety risk in the garden or on the balcony. The fruits of the laurel are not necessarily suitable for consumption, but they are not highly poisonous either. Contrary to what is often claimed to the contrary, the leaves of the real laurel are equally edible when fresh or dried. There is a danger in connection with laurel when other plant species are mistaken for real laurel. For example, the leaves of the cherry laurel, which is often used for hedges, are quite poisonous, so that there have been deaths in horses and grazing cattle due to cherry laurel. If you come across laurel-like bushes in southern countries, you should not use their leaves for cooking without the advice of local botanical experts.
The dose of fresh and dried bay leaves
The rumor about the toxicity of freshly harvested bay leaves probably arose from the fact that they contain more bitter substances than already dried bay leaves. This means that dishes seasoned with it like the following taste a little more distinctly of laurel and are definitely bitter:
- Game dishes
- Beef steaks
- Stews
- Tomato Sauce
Fresh bay leaves are not poisonous, they just have to be dosed much more sparingly than dried leaves due to their higher flavor intensity. Additionally, bay leaves are usually removed from food before serving as they are not really edible due to their intense flavor and chewy consistency.
Tips & Tricks
The leaves of the laurel can also be used to make an antiparasitic and insect repellent in ointment form. However, caution is advised here, as allergic contact dermatitis often occurs when used in humans.
