The Economic Times

Science behind boiling lemon peels with bay leaves: What studies say about this popular practice and its benefits

Boiling lemon peels and bay leaves creates a pleasant home fragrance through aromatic compounds. These natural ingredients release scents when heated, filling rooms with a citrus-herbal aroma. However, this method primarily masks odors rather than eliminating their sources effectively. Scientific studies on insect repulsion use concentrated oils, not simmered ingredients. The trend is a safe, inexpensive way to freshen homes, but not a substitute for purification.