| Pimenta racemosa | |
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Scientific classification  | |
| Kingdom: | Plantae |
| Clade: | Tracheophytes |
| Clade: | Angiosperms |
| Clade: | Eudicots |
| Clade: | Rosids |
| Order: | Myrtales |
| Family: | Myrtaceae |
| Genus: | Pimenta |
| Species: | P. racemosa |
| Binomial name | |
| Pimenta racemosa (Mill.) J.W.Moore | |
| Synonyms [2] | |
List
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Pimenta racemosa is a species of plant in the myrtle family (Myrtaceae) that is native to the Caribbean region. Common names include West Indian bay tree, [3] bay rum tree, [3] and ciliment.
It is used in cooking and an essential oil is distilled to produce a fragrant cologne called bay rum; although the name is similar to names of flavored alcoholic beverages, the concentrated essential oil from the fruit is toxic and renders the product undrinkable. [4] The leaves are also used for herbal teas.[ further explanation needed ]
Extracts from multiple varieties of Pimenta racemosa display anti-inflammatory properties. These properties are mediated in part by terpenes such as abietic acid and lupeol, which alter neutrophil migration into inflamed regions. [5] [6]
Pimenta racemosa also demonstrates antinociceptive properties and has historically been used as an analgesic in the Caribbean. [7]
The tree is 4–12 m tall and the white flowers, about 10 mm wide, become black, oval fruits measuring 7–12 mm. [8] The ideal conditions for P. racemosa are regular irrigation and bright sunshine.
Pimenta racemosa is widely introduced and can become an invasive weed. [8] [9] The plants are now grown widely in other tropical areas, including Oceania.
Data related to Pimenta racemosa at Wikispecies 
Media related to Pimenta racemosa at Wikimedia Commons
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