The evil eye (to mati)

One of the well-known superstitions in Greece but also in numerous other countries, the ‘evil eye’ is believed to be caused by a compliment or jealousy. Repercussions range from illness, misfortune, harm and sometimes even death. To ward off any curse, people wear charms in the shape of an eye; to remove the curse, the receiver usually asks an elder woman (mother, aunt, even a priestess) to recite a secret prayer. Other techniques include spitting (don’t worry, no actual saliva is required), or by throwing salt over the shoulder.