Reduces the Effects of Stomach Irritations. - Bay Leaf is also known as Sweet Laurel, Wreath Laurel, Bay Laurel, and Yeuh-kuei. The bay tree is indigenous to Asia Minor, from where it spread to the Mediterranean. The Greek word for laurel is dhafni, named for the myth of the nymph Daphne, who was turned into a laurel tree by Gaea. Bay, or laurel, was famed in ancient Greece and Rome. Emperors, heroes, doctors and poets wore wreaths of laurel leaves. Triumphant athletes of ancient Greece were awarded laurel garlands for their exploits. Doctors wore crowns of Bay Leaf due to the Greek's belief that it provided support for everything from indigestion to nightmares. Bay leaves are still widely used throughout the world. It may be best known as a garnish or used similarly in soups, sauces, and stews, and is an appropriate seasoning for fish, meat and poultry. Bay leaf is often used as a pickling spice. - Grown successfully in Mediterranean climates, the Bay is a hardy evergreen shrub th