bay rum

A fragrant liquid, used for cosmetic and medicinal purposes. [ 1913 Webster ]

☞ The original bay rum, from the West Indies, is prepared, it is believed, by distillation from the leaves of the bayberry (Myrcia acris). The bay rum of the Pharmacopœia (spirit of myrcia) is prepared from oil of myrcia (bayberry), oil of orange peel, oil of pimento, alcohol, and water. [ 1913 Webster ]