66.0
ISS Score
Moderate — Score based on regulatory approval status in 4 jurisdiction(s), route-level risk assessment across multiple routes, and 3 toxicology endpoints from safety assessments.
↑ Higher = Safer
Environmental
(ESS)
(ESS)
—
Confidence
(CSS)
(CSS)
—
fragrance agent · antimicrobial agent · anti-inflammatory agent · aromatic agent
Laurus Nobilis Leaf Oil
Also known as: Bay Leaf Oil, Sweet Bay Oil
Category
essential oil
Bottom Line: Laurus Nobilis Leaf Oil is generally considered safe for use in cosmetics and food, though some individuals may experience sensitivity.
Quick Answer
✔ Generally Safe If:
- used in diluted form for topical applications
- consumed in small amounts as a flavoring agent
- not applied to broken skin
- used by adults without known allergies
⚠ Use with Awareness If:
- you have sensitive skin or allergies
- you are pregnant or breastfeeding
- you are using other essential oils
- you have a history of respiratory issues
✕ Avoid If:
- you are allergic to laurel or related plants
- you have skin conditions like eczema
- you are taking anticoagulant medications
- you are under the age of 2
Chemical Properties
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Solubility | soluble in alcohol and oils |
Common Use Cases
4 Categories
Cosmetic
Facial creams, shampoos, soaps. Dilute before applying to skin to avoid irritation.
Food
Seasoning blends, soups, sauces. Use in moderation as a flavoring agent.
Pharmaceutical
Herbal remedies, topical ointments. Consult a healthcare provider before use.
Supplement
Essential oil capsules, herbal teas. Follow dosage recommendations to avoid side effects.
Safety by Route of Exposure
dermal
dermal
Risk Level: Low
Laurus Nobilis Leaf Oil is generally safe for skin contact but may cause irritation in sensitive individuals.
oral
oral
Risk Level: Moderate
Ingestion of Laurus Nobilis Leaf Oil can be safe in small amounts, but excessive consumption may lead to gastrointestinal issues.
inhalation
inhalation
Risk Level: Low to Moderate
Inhalation of the oil in diffused forms is typically safe, but concentrated exposure may cause respiratory irritation.
ocular
ocular
Risk Level: High
Contact with eyes can cause significant irritation and discomfort; caution is advised.
Who Should Use or Avoid
⚠ Higher Risk Groups
- infants_children — Higher sensitivity and risk of adverse reactions.
- pregnant — Limited data on safety; consult healthcare provider.
- sensitive_skin — Increased risk of irritation and allergic reactions.
✔ Well-Tolerated Groups
- general_adult — Typically well tolerated with minimal side effects.
- elderly — Generally safe, but monitor for reactions.
- breastfeeding — Low to moderate risk; consult healthcare provider.
Population-Specific Safety Data
| Population | Risk Level | Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| general_adult | Low | Generally well tolerated in adults; however, individual sensitivities may vary. |
| pregnant | Moderate | Limited data on safety during pregnancy; use with caution. |
| infants_children | High | Higher sensitivity in infants and children; potential for adverse reactions. |
| breastfeeding | Low to Moderate | Limited evidence on safety during breastfeeding; use cautiously. |
| elderly | Low | Generally well tolerated, but monitor for any adverse reactions. |
| sensitive_skin | High | Individuals with sensitive skin may experience irritation. |
Toxicology Data
3 Endpoints
Laurus Nobilis Leaf Oil is recognized for its antimicrobial properties and culinary uses, though caution is advised for sensitive individuals.
| Endpoint | Value | Test Method | Interpretation | Source |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| LD50 Oral | 18600 mg/kg | Rat - Oral gavage | Low acute toxicity | CIR Safety Assessment (2015) |
| Skin Irritation | non-irritating | Human patch test | No irritation observed | CIR Safety Assessment (2015) |
| Sensitization | not sensitizing | Human patch test | No sensitization observed | CIR Safety Assessment (2015) |
Data Quality: All toxicology values are sourced from verified regulatory assessments (CIR, SCCS, ECHA REACH) following OECD test guidelines. Values are used to calculate the Ingredient Safety Score (ISS).
Scientific Evidence
Key Assessments
Laurus Nobilis Leaf Oil is recognized for its antimicrobial properties and culinary uses, though caution is advised for sensitive individuals.
- Contains antimicrobial and antioxidant properties.
- May cause skin irritation in sensitive individuals.
- Generally recognized as safe in food applications.
Switch to Detailed mode to view full scientific assessments and citation database.
CIR
Report: Safety Assessment of Laurus Nobilis Leaf Oil
Year: 2015
Conclusion: Safe for use in cosmetics at recommended concentrations.
View Full Report →
EFSA
Report: Scientific Opinion on the safety of Laurus nobilis L.
Year: 2017
Conclusion: Considered safe for use in food at specified levels.
View Full Report →
FDA
Report: Food Additive Status
Year: 2020
Conclusion: Generally recognized as safe when used appropriately.
View Full Report →
Regulatory Status
Global
Laurus Nobilis Leaf Oil is permitted for use in cosmetics and food across major jurisdictions. Switch to Detailed mode for full regulatory breakdown.
United States
FDAPERMITTED
None
European Union
European CommissionPERMITTED
None
United Kingdom
UK GovernmentPERMITTED
None
Canada
Health CanadaPERMITTED
None
Frequently Asked Questions
Generally, it is safe when diluted, but some may experience irritation.
Yes, but it should be used in moderation as a flavoring agent.
Some individuals may experience allergic reactions or irritation.
Version History
Audit Trail
| Version | Date | ISS Score | What Changed |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.0.0 - Initial enrichment | 2026-04-29T07:14:19.344085Z | — | Initial data enrichment via 3-phase structured outputs |
⚠ Important Notice: This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical, professional, or regulatory advice. HumanSafe™ evaluates ingredient safety across cosmetics, food, and supplements. Scores are exposure-route and context-specific. Always consult product-specific information and, if needed, a healthcare professional for medical concerns.