Why People Are Sleeping With Bay Leaves Under Their Pillows

By Lilo Last updated May 14, 2025

The Surprising Reason People Are Putting Bay Leaves Under Their Pillows—You’ll Want to Try It Tonight

You probably recognize bay leaves as an aromatic addition to soups and stews, but these unassuming leaves have a history and power that stretch far beyond the kitchen. Long before modern medicine and air fresheners, bay leaves were valued for their symbolic meaning and healing properties—and one of the most intriguing traditions still practiced today involves placing bay leaves under your pillow before sleep.

It may sound strange, but this natural remedy has roots in ancient culture and offers real, everyday benefits for your sleep, stress levels, and even pest control.

A Glimpse into the History of Bay Leaves

Bay leaves come from the Laurus nobilis tree, commonly known as the bay laurel. In ancient Greece and Rome, bay leaves were seen as symbols of wisdom, peace, and victory—think laurel wreaths for poets and athletes. But these leaves weren’t just ceremonial; they were deeply woven into traditional medicine and spiritual practices.

Across various cultures, bay leaves were believed to offer cleansing and calming energy, often used in home rituals for protection, luck, and emotional balance. One custom that has stood the test of time? Tucking bay leaves beneath the pillow before bed.

The Real Reason: Better Sleep and Reduced Stress

The key ingredient behind this tradition may be linalool, a naturally occurring compound in bay leaves that has been studied for its soothing and sedative effects. Simply inhaling the gentle scent of bay leaves can:

Calm your nervous system
Help reduce stress and anxiety
Encourage deeper, uninterrupted sleep

For anyone dealing with racing thoughts or restlessness at night, bay leaves can function as a natural aromatherapy aid—no oils, diffusers, or noise machines needed.

More Unexpected Benefits of Bay Leaves Near Your Bed

1. A Natural Air Freshener

Bay leaves release a light, earthy fragrance that refreshes your sleeping space. It’s subtle but effective at keeping the air pleasant—without artificial scents or sprays.

2. Repels Insects Naturally

Thanks to compounds like eugenol and myrcene, bay leaves are known to repel pests such as ants, mosquitoes, and moths. Placing a few leaves under your pillow—or in dresser drawers—may help deter insects the chemical-free way.

3. Spiritual and Symbolic Traditions

In some cultures, bay leaves are believed to absorb negative energy and invite clarity, protection, and good dreams. Even if you’re not spiritually inclined, the ritual of using bay leaves can serve as a calming nighttime routine that encourages reflection and peace of mind.

How to Use Bay Leaves Under Your Pillow

Adding this habit to your bedtime routine is easy and requires almost no effort:

Use dried bay leaves to avoid moisture or stains on your bedding
Place 2–3 leaves in a small cloth pouch or slip them directly under your pillowcase
Replace weekly as the scent fades over time
For added relaxation, consider combining bay leaves with herbs like lavender or chamomile

Bonus Tip: Try Bay Leaf Tea for Sleep Support

You can also benefit from bay leaves by drinking a simple herbal tea. Steep 2–3 dried bay leaves in hot water for about 10 minutes, strain, and sip before bed. Add honey or lemon balm for extra calming effects. This internal version may enhance relaxation and digestion, promoting better rest from within.

Precautions to Keep in Mind

Bay leaves are generally safe, but avoid them if you have a known allergy to aromatic herbs.
If cooking with bay leaves, always remove whole leaves before serving—they’re tough and can be a choking hazard.
Don’t use bay leaves on natural stone or delicate surfaces, as their oils may cause staining or reaction.

Final Thoughts

Sometimes the best remedies come from the past, not the pharmacy. Bay leaves offer a simple, natural way to improve your sleep, calm your mind, and freshen your space—all while honoring traditions that span generations.

So tonight, before you reach for a sleep aid or plug in a diffuser, try slipping a few bay leaves under your pillow. This old-world habit may just help you wake up more rested, more relaxed—and a little more connected to the quiet wisdom of nature.