Aromatherapy & Health Uses: Sprains; Colds; Flu; Insomnia; Rheumatism. Other Uses: Bay leaves were used by the Delphic priestesses. The incense and the leaf are said to produce a prophetic trance. Burn for psychic powers, purification, wish magic, exorcism, healing/health, protection, divination, visions, clairvoyance, energy, power.