The Surprising Reason People Are Putting Bay Leaves Under Their Pillows—You’ll Want to Try It Tonight
You probably think of bay leaves as a kitchen staple for soups and stews, but these simple leaves have a reputation that goes far beyond flavor. Long before modern sleep aids and scented candles, bay leaves were prized for their healing, calming, and even spiritual properties.
One tradition that has stood the test of time? Slipping a few bay leaves under your pillow at night. While it may sound unusual, the practice has deep roots in history—and it might offer benefits you’ll notice right away.
A Glimpse into the History of Bay Leaves
Bay leaves come from the Laurus nobilis tree, also known as bay laurel. In ancient Greece and Rome, they symbolized wisdom, peace, and victory—laurel wreaths crowned both athletes and poets. Beyond ceremony, the leaves played an important role in medicine, ritual, and home life.
Many cultures believed bay leaves could cleanse energy, protect against negativity, and invite good dreams. Today, people still carry on the ritual by tucking them under their pillows.
