Also known as West Indian Bay this Bay is not to be confused with Laurus Nobilis or Sweet Bay which is a different species. The fruits of Bay are an ingredient of Allspice. The essential oil is extracted from the leaves of the plant but is also both warming & aromatic. West Indian Bay is the main ingredient of the old-fashioned Bay Rum hair tonic which was said to stimulate hair growth & help with greasy or problem hair. For a home-made hair tonic try adding two or three drops of Bay to your usual shampoo or conditioner. Alternatively blend 3 drops with a teaspoon of vodka (to dilute) add to warm water & use as the final rinse after shampooing. Bay has a high Eugenol content which makes it irritating to mucous membranes it should not therefore be used in the bath & should be used in moderation & not on young children. For a winter-warming aroma try adding 2 drops of Bay 1 drop of Cinnamon & 3 drops of Sweet Orange to a burner or diffuser.