Historical Uses of Biblical Oils

Essential oils have been an integral part of the daily lives of people for thousands of years. According to Dr. David Stewart, there are 1,031 references to essential oils, aromatic plants, and their applications in the Bible. At least 33 species are mentioned and the word “incense” is used 68 times. Essential oils were used daily in perfumes, medicines, anointing oils, incense and in the form of resins.

Essential oils are the vital fluids of the plants and are their life blood. They are necessary for the life of the plant and contain life force, intelligence, and vibrational energy that allows them to have healing power. Some of the oils used most often then are readily available now. Because essential oils have become so popular, it is important to find oils that are pure and have been prepared using the highest standards. The essential oils below are some of the most referenced in the Bible and are still available and being used today.

Myrrh

Myrrh is referenced more than any other aromatic oil in the Bible. It was used as an anointing oil and as a fixing oil in most preparations. This means that it is used with other oils to "fix" the oils so that the fragrance lasts longer. It is still used today for the same purpose in commercial perfumes. But it also has wonderful healing qualities on it own. Myrrh was used by pregnant mothers to protect themselves from infection. It was used during labor to reduce anxiety and invoke calmness. It was also used for skin conditions, oral hygiene, embalming and as insect repellent.

Frankincense

Frankincense was used with Myrrh as an ingredient for holy incense and embalming. Both Frankincense and Myrrh are gum resins that come from the trunks and limbs of trees. Frankincense was used to enhance meditation, elevate spirituality, and as currency. It was also used to anoint the sons of kings and priests. Like Myrrh, it also is used in modern day fragrances. Frankincense is one of the most popular essential oils in modern times as well.

Cedarwood

Cedarwood is very aromatic due to amount of essential oil the wood contains. Because of this, it was used for construction of temples and other sacred buildings. Cedarwood essential oil was used for embalming, ritual cleansing, skin problems, and for it's calming effects. It may be one of the first and most ancient of the distilled oils because it was used long before Biblical times. Today it is used in insect repellents, to minimize hair loss, and for respiratory support.

Cypress

Cypress leaves and branches were used as a source of essential oils during Egyptian times as well as during Biblical times. During Biblical times it was used for arthritis, reducing scar tissue, laryngitis and cramps. The wood itself was used in building, weaponry, and for trading. It was a symbol of strength, prosperity, and security. Today it is often used to support the cardiovascular system, improving circulation, and respiratory support. Emotionally, it helps give a sense of security and grounding.

Cinnamon

Both the bark and leaves of the cinnamon plant produce essential oil. The oil coming from the bark is the strongest and is what is used in the form of cinnamon sticks or ground cinnamon. Cassia is closely related to cinnamon and was also used in Biblical times. It is considerably stronger than cinnamon. Cassia was listed as the fourth ingredient in the anointing oil recipe detailed in Exodus 30:24. Both cinnamon and cassia have mood elevating effects and were often considered "oils of gladness".

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