Limau Purut - a Lunar New Year Tradition

The Kaffir Lime (Limau Purut) sometimes referred to as “Thai Lime” or “Wild Lime” are very popular in Southeast Asia for its leaves, zest and juice. The fruit is smaller than an ordinary apple or orange, and round and pear-like in shape with uneven skin, having sort of big pimples or "mini-volcanoes" on the skin. It has been long used for cleansing and to help one get rid of bad luck and bestow good luck.

Kaffir lime leaves are thick, dark green and shiny on the top, porous and pale on the back. The leaf has two connecting leaves. The leaf will give a fresh lime (or lemon-like) fragrance when squashed with the fingers. The leaf has a distinct smell aroma could be kept well in a refrigerator for at least 2 weeks. Dried and fresh leaves are available at many Asian markets.

Chinese traditions belief that Kaffir Lime and it leaves can help to cleanse one body of negative energy and bring good fortune.

FAMILY TRADITION
My mum in law is a sino (mix chinese and Kadazan). Eventhough she married to my father in law who is a Kadazan mixed India, she still embraced her heritage and celebrated Chinese New Year. She believes that one of the way to cleanse one body of negative energy and bring good fortune is by using the Kaffir Lime leaves.

My mum in law said that she always placed Kaffir Lime leaves and flowers in her sons and daughter bath water, especially during exam periods or after they had visited someone in hospital or attended a funeral. She believed that this enhanced luck and cleansed any negative energy.

She especially do this before the Lunar New Year. She believe that it would bring good luck for the whole year and also luck when she's gambing during Chinese New Year. Believe it or not, she actually did win some...well enough to make her smile all day.

So my friends, try this tradition for yourself and see what the mighty Kaffir Lime can do!

Thank you for reading my post.