Header image courtesy of @marionb_photography (via Unsplash)
Knocking on wood to ward off bad luck or steering clear from the evil eye are cautionary tales we were once warned about as kids. Stay in Hong Kong long enough and you’ll discover a long list of old wives’ tales about the very food you eat as well! “Eating black sesame will make your hair dark and shiny,” or how certain foods will make you “less heaty” are well-intended reminders that may not be seen as empirically true, but that people nevertheless still adhere by.
What were once absolute truths that had do-or-die connotations are now met with incredulous disbelief or a good old laugh about how creative our ancestors were at explaining away the misfortunes of a bad day or a relationship gone sour. In fact, we wonder if you believe in any of these old wives’ tales yourself? Our friends at Mint City share five everyday ingredients that, in the past, could have saved you from evil spirits, chronic pain, or even a guest who has overstayed their welcome!