Households continue the centuries-old [1] tradition of burning lemon peels and cloves to repel sickness and conceal unpleasant odors.

This practice persists as a traditional method of home care, particularly in India, where practitioners believe the ritual provides a layer of protection for individuals with respiratory issues.

Supporters of the method point to the chemical composition of the ingredients. One expert said, “Cloves, rich in eugenol, boast antimicrobial and insect-repellent properties” [2]. The essential oils found in lemon peels are also cited as contributing to the practice's perceived antimicrobial benefits [2].

However, the actual efficacy of the ritual in improving health is a point of contention. While some traditions suggest the practice protects the home from illness [1], other experts suggest the benefits are primarily olfactory. One expert said, “While the natural compounds in these ingredients create pleasant aromas, experts clarify that this method primarily masks smells rather than purifying air” [3].

Beyond the ritual of burning these materials, the ingredients are used for general household cleaning. For example, placing peels in a bowl with one [4] cup of water can be used to clean a grimy microwave and improve its scent [4].

These traditional practices reflect a long-standing reliance on botanical elements to manage the domestic environment, a bridge between ancient folk medicine and modern home fragrance.

““Cloves, rich in eugenol, boast antimicrobial and insect-repellent properties,””

The tension between traditional usage and scientific clarification highlights a common gap in home wellness practices. While ingredients like cloves contain eugenol, which has known antimicrobial properties, the act of burning them may mask odors without significantly altering the microbial load of the air, suggesting the ritual's value is more psychological and aesthetic than clinical.