Botanical atlas
California Bay Laurel
Umbellularia californica
Long before it appeared in California kitchens, this tree was a trusted companion to the region's Native peoples. The Pomo, Yuki, and Karuk, among others, held crushed leaves to the nose to help clear a stuffy head, brewed a light leaf tea for colds and upset stomachs, and warmed aching joints with the foliage. The oily nuts were roasted, ground, and eaten as a nourishing food, sometimes brewed as a coffee-like drink. Today the tree is best known for its leaf, a cousin to the Mediterranean bay leaf but considerably bolder, which still flavors soups, stews, and braises across the West Coast.
In tradition.
Long before it appeared in California kitchens, this tree was a trusted companion to the region's Native peoples. The Pomo, Yuki, and Karuk, among others, held crushed leaves to the nose to help clear a stuffy head, brewed a light leaf tea for colds and upset stomachs, and warmed aching joints with the foliage. The oily nuts were roasted, ground, and eaten as a nourishing food, sometimes brewed as a coffee-like drink. Today the tree is best known for its leaf, a cousin to the Mediterranean bay leaf but considerably bolder, which still flavors soups, stews, and braises across the West Coast.
Traditional preparations.
A gentle, warming infusion in the old West Coast tradition, used sparingly given the leaf's strength.
Traditionally, a mild tea is made by steeping half of one dried leaf, lightly crumbled, in 250 ml of just-boiled water for 5 to 8 minutes, then straining well before drinking. This leaf is notably stronger than Mediterranean bay, so start with less than you think you need.
A traditional way of using the leaf's pungent fumes to help clear a stuffy head, without ingesting anything.
A few crushed fresh or dried leaves are traditionally added to a bowl of hot, not boiling, water, and the rising steam is inhaled briefly with eyes closed and a towel draped loosely over the head.
Safety.
The leaves and their essential oil are strong enough to trigger sudden headaches or nasal irritation when crushed and inhaled, so use it sparingly, especially if you're prone to migraines. It is much more potent than culinary bay leaf, and the whole leaf should be removed before eating since it does not soften and can scratch or choke.
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