Laurus nobils L. – phytochemical profile, bioactivity and less known or unexplored aspects. A short review
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.59463/nxmx7w81Keywords:
bay leaf, therapeutic potential, antimicrobial effect, antioxidant capacity, culinary propertiesAbstract
Laurus nobilis L. is native to the Mediterranean region and is part of the Lauraceae family. It is known as an aromatic plant with culinary and medicinal properties. Bay extracts and oils have a phytochemical profile with antibacterial, antifungal, insecticidal, antioxidant effects. According to some studies, all the component parts of the plant could be exploited (seeds, roots, bark, leaves, flowers and fruits) in medicine, agriculture, cosmetic and food industry. The information collection methodology consisted of accessing databases, studying articles and reviews of interest to researchers and people passionate about this plant. In the current context, in which the demand for natural products is increasing and there are still insufficiently known or unexplored resources, this paper aims to address these aspects. Also, the manuscript offers an overview of the taxonomy, the geographical area, the influence of external factors, cultivation, botanical particularities, phytotherapy, biological activity, the connections between the modification of the chemical composition and the biological activity, the therapeutic effects and the ways open to the development of medicinal formulas.
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