Bayberry Root Bark

Myrica cerifera

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.