Festival Sachets

After the summer solstice

Heat and humidity increase

Pests and germs are more active

Mothers are busy sawing scented baggies

For their children to wear

In the coming Dragon Boat Festival 

On the fifth day of the fifth lunar month

These sachets are embroidered 

And decorated with tassels

Stuffed with many spices

Including mint, mugwort, perilla leaves  

Hyssop, camphor and sandalwood 

Children wear them

To fend off harmful insects

In this way they feel protected

When joining the adults

For the outdoor festive activities

By Shih-Fang Wang

From: United States