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Introduction
Laurel leaves have long been a symbol of victory, protection, and prosperity. While they are commonly used in cooking for their distinct aroma and flavor, our grandparents believed in the power of laurel for more than just culinary purposes. One unique tradition, often passed down through generations, involves placing laurel leaves under the pillow. It was thought to bring good luck, encourage peaceful sleep, and even provide prophetic dreams. This simple yet enchanting practice deserves to be remembered and embraced once more in our modern lives.
Below, we’ll explore how to prepare a small laurel sachet for this custom, alongside a step-by-step guide for integrating it into your bedtime routine.
Ingredients
3-5 dried laurel leaves (bay leaves)
A small cloth pouch or sachet
Optional: a few drops of lavender essential oil
Optional: a pinch of dried chamomile flowers
Directions
Prepare the Laurel Leaves:
Ensure your laurel leaves are completely dried and clean. Fresh leaves can also work, but dried ones are traditionally preferred for their preserved fragrance and symbolic meaning.
Create the Sachet:
Place the laurel leaves inside the cloth pouch. If you’d like to enhance relaxation and sleep quality, add a pinch of dried chamomile flowers and a couple of drops of lavender essential oil to the pouch.
Seal the Pouch:
Tie the cloth pouch securely, ensuring that the contents don’t spill.
Place Under the Pillow:
Tuck the laurel sachet under your pillow before bedtime. For a more spiritual touch, some individuals like to hold the pouch briefly, close their eyes, and set intentions for dreams or luck.
Enjoy the Benefits:
Sleep peacefully with the knowledge that this centuries-old tradition connects you to your roots, while potentially offering relaxation, clearer dreams, or an enhanced sense of positivity.
Serving and Storage Tips
Storage: Keep unused laurel leaves in a dry, airtight container away from direct sunlight to preserve their potency.
Shelf Life: Dried laurel leaves can last up to 6 months when stored properly.
Refreshing Your Sachet: Replace the leaves every 3-4 weeks to maintain their fragrance and effectiveness.
Variations
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