Lauraceae

Lauraceae is a family of generally broad leafed evergreen trees that include the Bay Laurel, Cinnamon, Avocado and Camphor trees. These aromatic plants have been important in human history and are part of the Laurales order, classified as Magnolids.

One tree of this family, the California Bay Laurel (Umbellularia californica), is becoming known as a headache tree. It has a powerful smell when the leaves are injured or crushed, that triggers headaches in some people. Scientists are continuing to research the compounds involved.