The laurel (Prunus laurocerasus) is an evergreen shrub that can be found in many parts of the world.
Toxic compounds include cyanogenic glycosides such as amygdalin and prunasin. Cyanogenic glycosides contain cyanide side chains which impart the smell of almonds.
Most people who ingest laurel leaves develop gastrointestinal distress.
The seeds of the fruit and leaves contain hydrocyanic acid (prussic acid).
The fruit (avoiding the seeds) can be eaten but may contain small amounts of cyanide, especially if the fruit tastes bitter.
Laurel water is prepared as a distillate of leaves and other plant parts. It can be highly toxic due to the presence of the hydrocyanic acid.
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