In the herbal bath it is considered stimulating. Hold back on the oil and cheeses, but combine everything else in a food processor and process till smooth while slowly drizzling in the olive oil. If you wish to make pesto for use as a sauce on pasta, then add enough oil to make of a thin consistency. When making for use as a dip or for spreading, make it thicker. Pesto can also be used in small amounts as a flavoring in soups and sauces.
Propagation is by cuttings of fresh green shoots.
It requires part to full sun, moderate moisture and moderately rich soil. The leaves are harvested throughout the year. Especially dangerous for hemophiliacs and those on coumadin or blood-thinning therapies. Use leaves fresh or dried in whole state and remove before serving. Oil of bay is bactericidal and fungicidal and is used externally for rheumatism, skin rashes and bruises.