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Chicken soup will cure a cold -

While it may have benefits for the soul, it has minimal impact on one's health. It might contribute to rehydration, similar to drinking a glass of water. However, it does create a sense of alleviating cold symptoms.

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Chicken wishbone broken for good luck -

There is no definitive evidence to support or dismiss the belief that breaking a wishbone brings luck. However, if it indeed worked, people would likely always be roasting chickens. So, there is no need to worry if you end up with the smaller piece.

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When salt is spilled, throw some over your left shoulder -

There is a belief that throwing salt over the left shoulder can blind a supposed little devil residing there. Although it is still possible to hold this belief, there is no evidence supporting the existence of any creature perching on one's left shoulder, especially not a small devil.

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Cheese will give you nightmares -

The English displayed significant concern regarding this superstitious belief and thus provided financial support for a scientific investigation to ascertain the truth. The study ultimately revealed no substantiated proof indicating that consuming cheese before bedtime leads to unpleasant dreams.

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The kettle will never boil if you watch it -

Our parents told us tales to entertain and amuse us. This tradition persists because children are trusting. If you've never tried to watch a kettle on the stove, rest assured: it will indeed come to a boil.

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When you give a knife to someone, also give them a penny -

According to this belief, giving a knife as a gift could potentially cut the bonds within your relationship. To avoid this, you should put a penny with the knife and request they to return it as a form of payment.

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Cooking tears -

Placing a towel on your left shoulder will not prevent tear-inducing chemicals from onions to reach your eyes, despite the belief that it would.

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If you burn yourself, put potato peels on it -

It's unlikely! The potato peel you apply along with the pressure may offer some relief, possibly due to a placebo effect.

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If you burn your finger, grab your earlobe -

Despite lacking scientific reasoning, it surprisingly alleviates immediate discomfort, possibly due to the distracting effect it has on our minds.

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Put an apple in among your potatoes to prevent them from sprouting -

This one is effective. When apples decompose, they release ethylene gas, which aids in fruit ripening and inexplicably prevents potato sprouting.

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Garlic will keep the vampires away -

According to popular beliefs, this folklore is said to have stemmed from individuals cultivating garlic to repel mosquitoes and other bloodthirsty creatures. It is presumed that Bram Stoker incorporated this notion in his novel 'Dracula,' leading to the widespread circulation of the tale.

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Bananas should not be taken on a fishing boat -

Although it may seem peculiar, many fishermen still refrain from bringing bananas on board their boats due to the belief that it hinders their ability to catch fish. The actual impact of this superstition is likely insignificant, despite popular belief.

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The devil's herb -

Transplanting a parsley plant is believed to be an ill-fated act as it may result in the death of the landowner where it is relocated. It is advised to consume parsley solely in combination with animal meat, as it purportedly brings solace to departed spirits.

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The devil's herb -

Parsley's growth is not immediate, which led people to believe that the seed must visit the devil nine times before sprouting. 

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Ortolan and good fortune -

The Ortolan, a bird, was once subjected to a repulsive practice in France, as per an old belief. It involved removing its eyes and then overfeeding the bird until it became overweight. This act was associated with the idea of bringing good fortune.

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Ortolan and good fortune -

Once the bird reached the appropriate size, it was immersed in Armagnac alcohol and cooked for ten minutes. Then, the bird was eaten whole, guts and all. It was such a shameful dish that you had to cover your head with a napkin when you do it. Nowadays, it is completely illegal.

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Calcium markings -

White spots on nails are not caused by a calcium deficiency, but rather a lack of zinc. However, these spots are often merely a result of genetics.

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Shaving makes the hair grow back thicker -

No, not really. While your hair may appear healthier and cleaner when it grows back, it won't necessarily be thicker. The root of the hair remains unchanged, so there's no actual change in thickness.

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Full moon faces -

"If you make silly faces to the full moon, you will stay that way permanently." Again, the things our parents tell us...

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Seven years of tummy trouble -

Contrary to popular belief, the claim that "if you swallow gum, it will stay in your stomach for seven years" is completely false. Rest assured, it will pass through your intestines just like any other food.

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Swimming after eating a lot -

It is commonly believed that swimming immediately after eating can lead to cramps and drowning. However, this is a myth and not supported by scientific evidence. While digestion may be slightly affected due to physical activity, there is no increased risk of cramps and drowning associated with eating before swimming.

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It's a girl! -

There is no evidence to support the claim that a high heart rate during pregnancy predicts the gender. It is always a 50/50 chance, regardless.

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If you crack your knuckles, you will get arthritis in your hands -

Contrary to popular belief, cracking your knuckles does not lead to arthritis in your hands. The act of joints clicking is a common phenomenon and does not necessarily indicate any harm.

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Wearing the wrong kinds of glasses will damage your eyes permanently -

Contrary to popular belief, wearing the incorrect type of glasses does not result in permanent eye damage. While it may initially cause discomfort, such as headaches, due to your brain's effort to adapt, it does not lead to any lasting harm.

Sources: (Root + Bone) (Good Housekeeping)

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