küüsumine

Küüsumine is a traditional Estonian folk custom associated with the autumn harvest, particularly of garlic. The practice involves hanging braids of garlic in homes and barns. This was believed to ward off evil spirits and protect the household and livestock from harm. Garlic, with its pungent smell and perceived medicinal properties, held a significant place in folk beliefs across many cultures.

The act of küüsumine was often a communal one, with families and neighbors gathering to prepare the garlic braids. The process required careful selection of mature garlic bulbs and skilled hands to weave them together into decorative and functional displays. These braids were not merely practical; they were also seen as a symbol of a successful harvest and a promise of good health and prosperity for the coming winter.

Beyond its protective and symbolic meanings, küüsumine also served as a practical way to store garlic. Properly braided and hung in a dry, cool place, the garlic would preserve well, ensuring a supply for the winter months. This ensured that the pungent flavor and health benefits of garlic were available for cooking and potential medicinal uses throughout the year. The tradition, while less common today, is still remembered and sometimes revived as a cultural heritage practice.