Mix bay leaves, rosemary, and olive oil—I wish I had discovered this sooner!

Try incorporating this routine into your daily life and feel the difference in your well-being!

If you suffer from varicose veins, joint pain, or bone discomfort, this homemade balm could be the solution you’ve been looking for.

Simple to prepare, it combines the anti-inflammatory power of olive oil with the analgesic properties of bay leaf and rosemary, resulting in a therapeutic oil that improves circulation, reduces swelling, and relieves muscle discomfort.

1. Why use olive oil?

• Anti-inflammatory action: the oleocanthal compound present in olive oil mimics the effect of anti-inflammatories such as ibuprofen, relieving pain without side effects.
• Skin absorption: its light texture penetrates easily, raising local temperature and accelerating blood circulation.
• Natural antioxidant: protects cells against damage, helping to recover tired or inflamed tissues.

2. Benefits of bay leaves and rosemary

Laurel

• Very rich in sesquiterpene lactones, which block inflammation mediators.
• Contains cineole, capable of reducing the formation of inflammatory plaques.

Rosemary

• Source of carnosol and carnosic acid, which modulate inflammatory responses.
• It contains camphor and pinene, excellent for relaxing blood vessels and relieving muscle tension.

The combination of these herbs enhances the effect of the olive oil, creating a balm that acts on several layers: skin, blood vessels and joints.

3. Necessary ingredients

• 1 tablespoon dried and lightly crushed bay leaves
• 1 tablespoon rosemary leaves (fresh or dried)
• 200 ml extra virgin olive oil (preferably cold pressed)

4. How to prepare the infused oil

1. Crush the bay leaf: use a pestle or mortar and pestle or food processor until you get small pieces.
2. Separate the rosemary: remove the leaves from the stem and discard the thick stems.
3. Make the infusion: in a glass container, combine the bay leaf, rosemary, and olive oil.
4. Gentle double boiler: Heat over low heat for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Prolonged resting: turn off the heat, cover and let it rest for 12 hours at room temperature.
6. Strain and store: pass through a fine sieve or clean cloth and store the oil in a dark bottle, away from direct light.

5. How to use

• Localized application: place a few drops on the painful area.
• Relaxing massage: use circular movements for 3 to 5 minutes to stimulate circulation.
• Routine: Use at night, before bed, for at least seven consecutive days to feel improvement.

6. Who is it suitable for?

• Varicose veins and slow circulation: helps to decongest veins and reduce the appearance of “heaviness” in the legs.
• Joint pain: knees, shoulders, spine and other joints damaged by daily use.
• Chronic inflammation: arthritis, rheumatism and muscle inflammation.
• Minor bruises and sprains: speeds recovery and reduces bruising.

7. Care and precautions

• Pre-test: do a small test on the skin of your forearm; if redness appears within 24 hours, discontinue use.
• Avoid mucous membranes: do not apply near the eyes or mouth.
• Storage: Keep in a cool, dry place; the oil lasts up to three months if well stored.
• Pregnant and lactating women: consult a professional before using any herbal medicine.

With just a few ingredients and simple steps, this bay leaf and rosemary balm in olive oil offers natural and effective relief for those looking to reduce pain and improve circulation.