Why Do People Place Rice Under Their Pillow?
You might think that rice belongs solely in the kitchen, but there’s an interesting tradition where placing a handful of rice under your pillow can improve your health. Let’s dive into why some folks swear by this!

Rice isn’t just a staple food; it offers unique benefits that enhance daily life. One unexpected tradition involves putting a handful of rice under your pillow at night. Although it might sound odd, this simple act offers surprising health advantages.
Better Sleep Quality
One prominent benefit of placing rice under your pillow is superior sleep quality. For those battling insomnia or restlessness, rice may offer a natural solution. Fresh rice emits a light, pleasant aroma that soothes the nervous system, helping you unwind and drift off to sleep. This calming scent acts like aromatherapy, alleviating stress and anxiety after a busy day. Placing rice under your pillow means this gentle fragrance envelops your sleeping space, promoting relaxation and leading to a deeper, more restful sleep.
This practice is especially beneficial for individuals who wake in the middle of the night or have trouble falling back asleep. The pleasant scent can help them return to a peaceful slumber.
Moisture Absorption
Another remarkable trait of rice is its ability to absorb moisture. This can be particularly useful during humid or rainy days when dampness creeps into your room and bedding, causing it to become musty or moldy. By placing a handful of rice under your pillow, you can significantly reduce humidity around your sleeping area, maintaining a healthier and more comfortable environment.
To try this, fill a thin fabric bag or clean sock with dry rice, tie it securely, and tuck it under your pillow before bed. If neither is available, wrap the rice in thick tissue paper as an alternative.
Keeping Warm in Winter
During chilly winter nights, rice can serve another purpose: keeping you warm. Fill a fabric bag with rice and heat it in the microwave at a moderate setting. Once warmed, the rice bag can be used to warm your body or placed under your blanket or pillow for extra coziness.
If a microwave isn’t handy, gently toast the rice in a pan over low heat until it’s warm. Just take care not to overheat, as this can cause discomfort or burns on your skin.
These are just a few reasons some people are inclined to place a handful of rice under their pillows. Give it a try and enjoy a more restful sleep and improved health!