Superstition - MM
Garlic has a long and fascinating history in superstition, folklore, and ritual across many cultures — often seen as both a protector and a purifier.
1. Protection Against Evil
In European folklore, garlic was believed to ward off evil spirits, demons, and witches.
It became especially famous in Balkan and Romanian legends as protection against vampires — hence the popular image of garlic garlands in Dracula tales.
People hung braids of garlic over doors and windows or wore cloves around the neck to repel malevolent forces.
2. Purification and Healing
In ancient Greece and Rome, garlic was thought to purify the body and soul. Soldiers and athletes ate it for courage and strength, but it was also used to protect against disease and bad luck.
In folk medicine, garlic was believed to draw out poison and counteract the “evil eye.”
3. Agricultural and Domestic Rituals
Farmers in rural Europe would plant garlic to protect crops and livestock from curses or bad weather.
A clove placed under a baby’s pillow or in the cradle was said to protect infants from harm
4. Symbolism in Other Cultures
In India, garlic has mixed connotations: it is valued for health but avoided by some spiritual traditions (because it stimulates passion and aggression).
In the Middle East and Mediterranean, it was often burned or scattered to repel jinn or misfortune.
Superstition - MM
Garlic has a long and fascinating history in superstition, folklore, and ritual across many cultures — often seen as both a protector and a purifier.
1. Protection Against Evil
In European folklore, garlic was believed to ward off evil spirits, demons, and witches.
It became especially famous in Balkan and Romanian legends as protection against vampires — hence the popular image of garlic garlands in Dracula tales.
People hung braids of garlic over doors and windows or wore cloves around the neck to repel malevolent forces.
2. Purification and Healing
In ancient Greece and Rome, garlic was thought to purify the body and soul. Soldiers and athletes ate it for courage and strength, but it was also used to protect against disease and bad luck.
In folk medicine, garlic was believed to draw out poison and counteract the “evil eye.”
3. Agricultural and Domestic Rituals
Farmers in rural Europe would plant garlic to protect crops and livestock from curses or bad weather.
A clove placed under a baby’s pillow or in the cradle was said to protect infants from harm
4. Symbolism in Other Cultures
In India, garlic has mixed connotations: it is valued for health but avoided by some spiritual traditions (because it stimulates passion and aggression).
In the Middle East and Mediterranean, it was often burned or scattered to repel jinn or misfortune.