Why should you burn a bay leaf at home?

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We all know bay leaves for flavoring a good pot-au-feu or homemade soup. But what few people know is that burning these little green leaves releases much more than just their fragrance. What if an old, almost forgotten, natural remedy could soothe your stress, purify your home, and even help you sleep better? This simple and effective ancestral ritual deserves a closer look…

Burning bay leaves: an ancestral ritual with modern virtues

Since ancient Greece, laurel has symbolized victory, wisdom, and protection. Scholars and champions wore it as a wreath, but it was also burned in temples to purify the air and ward off negative energies. Today, this practice is making a comeback… and even modern science is beginning to take an interest!

Stress reduction: a breath of serenity

Just got home from a   shooting  day? Burn a bay leaf in a   heat-resistant metal or ceramic  container. Its aroma releases linalool, a natural compound that calms the nervous system. The result: less cortisol, more calm. It’s a bit like an olfactory massage for the mind.

Air purification: goodbye odors and germs

Forget chemical sprays! Burning two or three bay leaves naturally neutralizes bad odors, thanks to their antibacterial and antifungal properties. The air becomes cleaner, fresher… like after a walk in a   Mediterranean forest  .

A natural insect repellent

Cockroaches, mosquitoes, and moths dislike the eugenol and cineole released by bay leaf smoke. Burn a few leaves in strategic corners or place them dry in closets: it’s like putting up an invisible barrier against pests, without using toxic products.

Deeper sleep, naturally

Are you tossing and turning in bed? Burning a bay leaf 30 minutes before bedtime can calm racing thoughts. Its scent soothes, slows the mind, and gently prepares you for sleep.   A bit like a natural lullaby…

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