• Common name: Laurel
• Scientific name: Laurus nobilis, L.
• Honorary Doctorate: Francisco García Olmedo (28/01/2014)

ORIGIN: Mediterranean region, although its natural distribution is difficult to define precisely.

CHARACTERISTICS:

• Evergreen tree or shrub with fragrant leaves.

INTERESTING FACTS:

• Despite its leaves being widely used in cooking, it can be toxic if overused, causing intestinal problems. However, we would notice this sooner because it would make food very bitter.
• It is a symbol of victory; its leaves were used to crown heroes after their victories, as well as Roman emperors and nobles.
• It appears in catalogs of protected or threatened species in the regions of Andalusia and Valencia.

USES:

• FOOD: Its leaves are used dried or fresh to flavor stews, rice dishes, and legumes. Its berries are perfect as a garnish or for flavoring, and in Italy, they are used to prepare a liqueur known as
• MEDICINAL: Its leaves contain essential oils that give it a distinctive aroma, and it has applications in medicine and veterinary medicine.