Edible shield against the wicked

The Philippines has rich cultural beliefs and folk traditions that remain alive today. Among these are practices centered around food and spices as a means of protection, spirituality, and warding off supernatural creatures.

The enchanting tales of every mythical creature are not without the horrors that come with it. At the top of the list is Aswang, a shape-shifting evil spirit that comes after humans as dinner.

And to ward off the ghoul, there are food and spices that can be used as protection and bind for spirituality.

In the past, people used to serve certain foods as offerings to the “Anito” with the hope that they would be guarded and be in safe hands against harmful spirits; these beliefs have also been cast by indigenous religious culture and animistic influence during pre-colonial times in the Philippines.

Until some foods and spices started having another purpose. This time, they are not tributes but items used for the opposite reason—keeping away the spirits that people think are harmful to them.

Here are the foods you must keep in your pocket while walking in the dark:

Garlic: A Curse Stir Upon Mythical Beasts

One of the commonly used “protection”, Filipinos believe that garlic is the most effective repellent against Aswang and Mananaggal because these creatures are afraid of its pungent smell.

Salt: The Soul of Purity

Salt represents purity—its bits are crystal-like and said to store good energy. Filipinos use salt to prevent the lost souls from harming them by sprinkling it around their houses. It is believed to cleanse the bad energies that may surround their homes. Even pregnant women who are “prone” to supernatural harm, can be protected by putting salt to their tummies.

Chili Peppers: A Fiery Heat for Spicy Spirits

Chili peppers are notably one of the well-known protections in traditional Filipino culture, believed to bring good fortune and at the same time, ward off evil creatures. It can be worn as a jewelry to scare off the demonic mythical beings.

Calamansi: The Sorcery of Enchantment

Calamansi is frequently cited as protection against demons and bad luck. It is typically hung at doorways to block negative influences, prevent illness, and protect against harmful energies. Often used in combination with salt, it also creates a good balance to chase away supernatural beings.

Rice: Golden Grain of Legends

Rice has long been accredited as a symbol of prosperity and spiritual purity. It is often paired with other ingredients such as salt, eggs, or herbs that can reaffirm its balanced, positive energy.

A Tangible Comfort in the Present Time

These ancient traditional beliefs that involve the kitchen must-haves are proof that mythical creatures, although said to be sources of fright, have endured and successfully woven a story into the fabric of daily life.

While still being wrapped in the wonder of the spiritual realm, these foods and spices remain a tangible presence in the present time, linking us to the deeper energy that binds us in this world, as if we are in a big wok, sautéd with generations of faith, hope, and remembrance.

Filipino beliefs in the supernatural have changed over time, with people searching for meaning. These practices, especially through food and spices, help us reconnect to our ancient belongings, reminding us that unseen forces are always around and the wisdom of the past is never too far away.

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Layout by: Timothy Andrei Milambiling