The Bible mentions various plants and oils throughout the old and new testaments. Many of these plants were used for their aromatic and medicinal properties, some of which are still popular today in the form of essential oils. Some were mentioned in their oil form and others don’t really say in which form they were used.  The fact that plants have therapeutic benefits for the human body is indisputable. Let’s explore some of the Biblical oils and plants mentioned in the Bible:

• Frankincense: Known for its sweet, woody aroma, frankincense was one of the gifts offered to Jesus by the three Wise Men. It comes from the resin of the Boswellia tree and was used as incense, in perfumes, and in religious ceremonies. One of the valuable therapeutic properties is that it assists with calmer breathing, this adds to a better state for meditation. It was also used for medicinal purposes, such as treating wounds, inflammation, and respiratory issues. Today, Frankincense essential oil is valued for its anti-inflammatory, analgesic (pain relief), and antimicrobial (anti-bacterial, -viral and –fungal) properties.

• Myrrh: Another precious resin, myrrh, was also among the gifts presented to Jesus. It has a warm, earthy scent and was used to embalm, as incense, and for medicinal purposes. Myrrh was also used in the Holy Anointing Oil as mentioned in Leviticus. It was believed to have antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, and analgesic (pain relief) properties. Today, Myrrh essential oil is also used for its astringent (skin tightening) properties which has been useful in the cosmetic industry since antiquity. It’s also a strong antiseptic with anti-inflammatory properties. It’s applied topically to wounds, cuts, and skin infections, and in aromatherapy for emotional balance.

Myrrh was a precious gift given at the birth of Christ with amazing therapeutic properties.

• Cinnamon: It was mentioned in the Bible for its fragrance and was often used in perfumes and anointing oils. It was also valued for its medicinal properties and flavouring spice. Today Cinnamon essential oil is known for its potent antiviral, antibacterial and antifungal properties. It’s used to boost the immune system, aid digestion, and relieve muscle pain. It is also an excellent killer for mosquito larvae.

• Spikenard: Known for its intense, earthy fragrance, it was used in the Bible for anointing. It was derived from the roots of the Nardostachys jatamansi plant and was highly prized for its aroma. Spikenard was used as a perfume and for its medicinal properties, including as a sedative and to treat skin conditions.  Today, Spikenard essential oil is used in aromatherapy for stress relief, emotional balance, and as a skincare ingredient. It’s also believed to have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. We don’t have this one in our shop – it is hard to come by since the plant is listed as a critically endangered species by the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.

• Hyssop: This oil, with its fresh, herbaceous scent is another one of the Biblical oils used ceremonially for purification rituals and cleansing. It has potent antibacterial and antiviral properties and was in folk medicine for centuries for stimulation of the circulation, for treatment of a variety of upper respiratory illness conditions, gastrointestinal upset and urinary tract infections, amongst others. Today, Hyssop essential oil is still used as widely in aromatherapy for respiratory issues like coughs, colds, and congestion. It’s also used for its antibacterial and antiviral properties. This one can be found in our Biblical Oils box here.

The oils we use today as Biblical oils, are prized because of the value that was given to them in the Bible.

• Cassia: This one was mentioned in the Bible as one of the ingredients in anointing oil. It has a warm, spicy aroma similar to cinnamon and was valued for its fragrance and medicinal properties. Much like Cinnamon – since they are derived from the same plant family.  This oil is used, today as an aid to sore muscles and can help better circulation. We don’t have this one in our shop – you can easily substitute with Cinnamon Bark.

• Aniseed: Also known as anise, was referenced in the Bible probably as “Dill” and had several uses in ancient times. It was used as a flavouring agent in cooking, particularly in soups and pickles.  In biblical times, it was valued for its medicinal properties. It was known for its soothing effects and mild pain relief. Aniseed was used as a natural remedy for various ailments, including digestive issues, coughs, and mild discomforts. Today, Aniseed essential oil is often used interchangeably with Fennel essential oil for digestive upsets, to assist in increasing milk production in lactating moms and as a mild pain reliever. You can also read more about Aniseed vs Fennel – a study Dr. Denise Olivier did to see which oil is the best one to stock.

The Cedar is a symbol of strength, used in anointing oils, with therapeutic properties for respiratory health!

• Cedarwood: This is one of the more well-known Biblical oils. The oil comes from the wood of cedar trees and has a warm, woodsy aroma. In ancient times, cedarwood was used for its purifying properties and as a symbol of strength. It was also very popular as a natural insect repellent. Used in building materials as well as for its medicinal benefits, it is even popular to this day.  Cedarwood essential oil is valued for its calming and grounding effects. It’s used in aromatherapy to promote relaxation, improve sleep quality, and alleviate respiratory issues. Today we know it’s a great facilitator to help carry oxygen to the cells.

• Agarwood: Also known as Aloeswood or Oudh (Arabic name), holds significant historical and spiritual significance, both in biblical times and today. Agarwood is mentioned several times in the Bible, particularly for its aromatic properties. It was used to perfume garments and beds, as noted in Psalm 45:8, Proverbs 7:17, and Song of Solomon 4:14.  In biblical times, aloeswood was highly valued for its rich fragrance and was considered a luxurious item. Today it still is a very expensive essential oil, used in perfumery and as wood incense.  It has a warm, earthy and resinous fragrance. It is used in aromatherapy to promote relaxation, reduce stress and anxiety, and enhance meditation practices. Some studies suggest that aloeswood oil may have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, making it a versatile ingredient in natural remedies. This expensive oil isn’t found in the OilGrow shop, but we made it available for you in the compilation of the Biblical Oils Box – to experience the luxurious almost royal richness of its aroma.

Biblical oils are merely a symbol, a tool to use as we navigate life.

While these oils are commonly associated with the Bible, it’s essential to note that not all plants mentioned were necessarily used in their oil form. Some, like Agarwood and Anise, were likely used differently in ancient times. These Biblical oils continue to be valued for their diverse medicinal properties and are used in various forms for health and well-being today.