Radek Tesár 31. 5. 2025 clock 3 minutes video
Elegant laurel with dark green leaves is not just a fragrant accessory to the kitchen. This mythical tree has had a millennium history as a symbol of power, and at the same time it can protect against unobtrusive alien in the home.
The ancient Greeks and Romans had deeply considered the laurel. Not only did his leaves hang on their heads as crowns, but they also believed in his magical abilities, and protect it from evil forces and diseases. Today, most of us know it mainly from the kitchen as a spice for sauces and soups. However, few people suspect that even a dry bay leaf from the back of the pantry can play an unexpected role in the fight against pests.
YouTube video on how to grow your own laurel can be found on the channel year of the gardener:
Symbolic meaning of laurel
Laurel was literally a tree of gods in the ancient world. According to Greek mythology, he is inherently associated with Apollo, the god of the sun, music and poetry. The legend tells about how Apollon fell in love with Nymph Dafná, who refused him. When he chased her, she asked her father, the god of the river Peneia to save her, and he turned her into a laurel tree. Apollo then taped from her branches a wreath and promised that his leaves would forever a symbol of honor and poetry.
That is why Laurel became a sign of victory and uniqueness. Wreaths from his leaves were handed over to the winners at the Pythian Games, the commanders of the winning battles or the poets for their work. In the Roman culture, they crowned the Emperor, who wore laurel as a sign of their authority and divine mission. Surprisingly, however, this symbol has survived to this day. Being awarded laurel means to achieve the highest recognition.
Laurel as a helper against pests
In addition to historical importance, it is also practical use in everyday life. It contains essential oils that have a very intense scent. It is not only pleasant for people, but also repels many insects. Bay leaves can be placed directly into bags with flour, rice, legumes or other dry foods. They will help you protect these foods from moths, worms and other small pests. You will appreciate this simple trick especially in summer, when insects multiply the most.
Laurers can also be placed in drawers, cabinets or the bottom of the waste bins. In places where there is a risk of undesirable insect guests, the whole twigs are also used. But only if you have access to the entire laurel tree. A strong aroma can serve as a natural barrier, especially in less frequent places such as a cellar or garage.
Although the laurel is not omnipotent and does not solve any pest problem, it is a simple and natural way to help keep the household clean and safe. At the same time, you can recall his famous past when using it. This plant connects the past with the present in a unique combination of usefulness and symbolism that has something to offer in today’s world.
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