Although bayberry occurs naturally in the eastern US, the tree is
also found in some parts of the Caribbean and Central America. It
thrives in moist environments and, once introduced, readily establishes
itself. Bayberry is also grown as a landscaping ornamental plant.
The entire tree has practical uses. The fruits are boiled and the
resulting wax-like substance is skimmed and used to make candles. This
is the source of the traditional bayberry candle that is so popular
during the winter holidays due its earthy, pine-like fragrance.
Safety: Wax is irritating. Constituents of the wax are
reportedly carcinogenic. Avoid in very hot temperatures. Avoid if
hypertensive.
The leaves and branches contain high amounts of volatile oils, which make
them very fragrant and effective at deterring insects when burned.
Although the above-ground foliage is susceptible to destruction from
wildfires because of oil content, the root system is unusually
fire-resistant.
In herbalism, bayberry root and bark has been used for many purposes.
New World settlers learned how to boil the bark to make infusions to
address minor skin irritations from the native Choctaw of the American
southeast.
