Well, we've done it. This is the last week of our review of the essential oils in the Bible. And what an oil to end on. . .Spikenard. It's a strange word to me and begs the question, "What in the world is a spikenard?" Actually, some people call it 'nard'. Still, do you know what it is?
Well, I didn't. It's definitely a word I glossed over in my Bible reading. But it's there for a reason. So what's the reason? Let's see what we find out.
As I mentioned before, depending on your translation of the Bible Spikenard may be referred to as nard, but it may not be mentioned specifically at all. The only place in the Old Testament where it is found is in Song of Solomon. First the bride talks about her scents of Spikenard reaching the king at his table then the king tells her she is like a garden and Spikenard is one of her plants. Don't you find it interesting to be referred to as a garden? Hmm.
The New Testament has two references (Mark 14 and John 12) but they are recounting similar incidents that occurred four days apart, yet both divulge some interesting facts. Spikenard was precious and expensive; it could have been bought and sold for more than a year's wages! It had to be held in a sealed alabaster container so that the smell didn't give it away. Because once it was out in the open the aroma could fill the entire house. It gave Judas and others a fit to have an entire half liter of this spread over Jesus's feet then his head. (Note: Jesus reprimanded the complaining men not the women who spent the money.)
We learn so much about the company that Jesus kept by these passages. When the Bible says it was costly, it was expensive and still is. Of course, the Bible states a year's wages as the price but there's no way to know how much that was. There is much speculation as to the exact amount, but Essential Oil pocket reference does mention that this oil was used only by priests, kings and high initiates. Hello, Jesus had friends who were high in society, which explains why so many of his followers could fit into a house to eat and listen to Jesus teach. And a woman of the house could spend that much money and still be able to entertain a group of men.
People of Israel weren't the only ones who used it either. After all, it comes from India, where it was not just perfume, but also part of medical practices. Historically, Egyptians used it as part of a mixture called kyphi
which was used to calm fear and anxiety, thus promoting restful sleep
and pleasant dreams. And if you read the word 'nardinum', an ancient oil
mixture renown for its aroma, spikenard is in that too.
So what other ailments is it advertised for? Reference Guide for Essential Oils says it's good for allergic skin reactions and has antibacterial, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, and deodorant properties. Essential Oil pocket reference adds that it's an immune stimulant. If you recall I mentioned sesquiterpenes in one of my earlier posts. These help the body return things back to normal. And this oil has a high percent of this in its chemical make-up.
I can't help but be drawn to the fact that there are oils whose very nature is to regenerate an area to the point of wholeness. This is something God does for us spiritually. When we turn something over to Him, He takes us through various cleansing processes and trials to get us to the point that we are whole. Whatever the hurt or wound, He makes it new and better. How awesome it is to see with our eyes what God does to the unseen part of us.
Tuesday, February 24, 2015
Tuesday, February 17, 2015
Biblical Oils - Cinnamon
I know what you're thinking. Cinnamon, an oil? Well, it's true and it fits right in with the oils we've talked about over the last several weeks. You see, while it's not a tree, although a cinnamon stick looks like a tree, it is processed from the bark of a tree. In fact the oil is actually called Cinnamon Bark.
Most of us think of cinnamon as a spice that brings a delicious flavor to rolls, breads, candy, cookies, and, well, the list goes on. But ancient people knew it for medicinal reasons. China was one of the places that used it as part of their medical practices. And it was listed in the medical "go to" book used in Europe for over 1,700 years according to Essential Oils pocket reference.
"Cinnamon has medical uses?" You ask. Why yes, yes it does.
In fact, it's strong stuff. Used straight it can cause an irritation to the nasal membranes if inhaled directly whether by diffuser or straight from the bottle. However, when used appropriately just look at its laundry list of properties: anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antidepressant, antiviral, anti-fungal, antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti-parastic, anticoagulant, astringent, circulatory stimulant, purifier, stomach protectant and antiseptic. Whew, that was a mouthful of words. In case I may have missed a few uses there's more information on cinnamon at this site.
When it comes to the Biblical references of Cinnamon, it's a great example of how something can be used for extreme good or bad. In Exodus 30, it is an ingredient in the sacred only-to-be-used-for-God's-temple anointing oil that made the tent of meeting and all its contents consecrated and most holy. But by itself Cinnamon found its way into the beloved's garden in Song of Solomon. And, here's where the bad comes in, it was part of the perfumes on the bed of the adulteress in Proverbs 7. The last place we see it mentioned is in Revelations 18. It will be one of the spices forever lost when the great and mighty city of Babylon is destroyed.
Perhaps its greatest notoriety was being combined in the mixture now known simply as Thieves.
I know it sounds like an odd name for an oil but when you hear the history behind it, it all makes sense. You see, during the time of the plague in 15th century Europe, thieves rubbed an oil concoction on themselves to avoid catching the plague while they robbed the sick and dead. When caught they were allowed to keep their goods if they told the authorities how they protected themselves. Turns out this concoction contained clove, lemon, eucalyptus, rosemary, and cinnamon.
I must admit that cinnamon packs a punch I never saw coming. I've known it to be a strong flavor, but now I know what's hidden in this delicious spice. And as for the oil blend Thieves, I am growing in appreciation of its properties.
Most of us think of cinnamon as a spice that brings a delicious flavor to rolls, breads, candy, cookies, and, well, the list goes on. But ancient people knew it for medicinal reasons. China was one of the places that used it as part of their medical practices. And it was listed in the medical "go to" book used in Europe for over 1,700 years according to Essential Oils pocket reference.
"Cinnamon has medical uses?" You ask. Why yes, yes it does.
In fact, it's strong stuff. Used straight it can cause an irritation to the nasal membranes if inhaled directly whether by diffuser or straight from the bottle. However, when used appropriately just look at its laundry list of properties: anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antidepressant, antiviral, anti-fungal, antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti-parastic, anticoagulant, astringent, circulatory stimulant, purifier, stomach protectant and antiseptic. Whew, that was a mouthful of words. In case I may have missed a few uses there's more information on cinnamon at this site.
When it comes to the Biblical references of Cinnamon, it's a great example of how something can be used for extreme good or bad. In Exodus 30, it is an ingredient in the sacred only-to-be-used-for-God's-temple anointing oil that made the tent of meeting and all its contents consecrated and most holy. But by itself Cinnamon found its way into the beloved's garden in Song of Solomon. And, here's where the bad comes in, it was part of the perfumes on the bed of the adulteress in Proverbs 7. The last place we see it mentioned is in Revelations 18. It will be one of the spices forever lost when the great and mighty city of Babylon is destroyed.
Perhaps its greatest notoriety was being combined in the mixture now known simply as Thieves.
I know it sounds like an odd name for an oil but when you hear the history behind it, it all makes sense. You see, during the time of the plague in 15th century Europe, thieves rubbed an oil concoction on themselves to avoid catching the plague while they robbed the sick and dead. When caught they were allowed to keep their goods if they told the authorities how they protected themselves. Turns out this concoction contained clove, lemon, eucalyptus, rosemary, and cinnamon.
I must admit that cinnamon packs a punch I never saw coming. I've known it to be a strong flavor, but now I know what's hidden in this delicious spice. And as for the oil blend Thieves, I am growing in appreciation of its properties.
Thursday, February 5, 2015
Biblical Oils - Cedarwood
Do you remember me saying that when I read the Bible I often read over words I don't understand, like cities or land locations? Of course, I've written posts in the past based on the importance of some of these places. Well, now I'm admitting to doing the same thing when it comes to sacrifices or cleansing processes in the Bible. Take for instance today's topic, Cedarwood. Look at Leviticus 14 and Numbers 19.
Some translations see the Cedarwood in Leviticus 14 as wood not an oil. Yet, it's part of the purification process after a house has been cleansed of mildew (NIV); sounds like the work of an oil to me. And by the way, I think the "mildew" translation makes better sense than a brown or red plague happening on a wall.
In Numbers 19 Cedarwood is part of the burnt offering of a red heifer for cleansing and purification from sin. And, we again see a wood whose oil is not just part of a renewal process but also the restoration that God will do to the land of Israel. (Ezekiel 17, 31 and Isaiah 41)
The godly are said to grow as tall and strong as a cedar in Psalm 92. This brings up a comparison I'd like to share. The tree species used for the oil which comes from the US and Morocco is said to be closely related to the cedars of Lebanon. When I think of the cedars of Lebanon I think of the redwoods of California. They are majestic and fit all the descriptions ever written about the cedars of Lebanon. Can you imagine having faith so strong that you could be compared to the huge redwoods that can't even be completely photographed in one close-up picture?
And the Bible eludes to this size when it describes cedars as the resting place of a giant eagle in Ezekiel 17. But Cedars were known for more than their beauty. (Numbers 24) They are also mentioned as an example of strength in something such as the tail of a giant animal in Job 40. The covering of a young girl's female parts in Song of Solomon 8.
Curiously, Strong's Concordance and Thompson Chain Reference Bible list cedar only as a wood, not an oil. In any case, either as an oil or as a wood there are far more references to Cedarwood than the previous woods we've discussed. I must admit when I first started writing about essential oils in the Bible I thought the oils of today would be oils in the Bible. But they're not. Nevertheless these oils, as trees, did have some purpose in the Bible. Actually, there are two other kinds of cedar oil, Western Cedar oil and Cedar Leaf oil, each has its own chemical make-up and particular uses. Cedarwood is the only one that is referred to as being in the Bible.
So if Cedarwood was only a wood in the Bible, would essential oil qualities have been seen?
Well, Cedar gives off a strong aroma which would have filled any house built with it. I have to believe that's why it was used in the building of David's palace, in the beloved's bedroom and in each of the temples. (2 Samuel; 1 Kings; 1 and 2 Chronicles; Song of Solomon; Ezra) Do not under estimate the benefits of aromatherapy. The aromatic effects of any essential oil puts it into use in multiple industries in the modern age.
An interesting fact I found in Essential Oils pocket reference is that the Egyptians used the oil for embalming the dead. It also states that the people of Tibet used it for incense and medicine. Presently, it is used for its calming and purifying properties. Because its therapeutic actions ultimately stimulate the release of melatonin many have used it for attention deficit issues as well as a sleep aid.
Isn't interesting that an oil known to kill fungus (mildew) can also calm the body enough to induce sleep? Hmm. Oh, but there's more. It's used as an antiseptic, astringent, diuretic and, get this, insecticide. Lovely. Which is probably why some sources say you should never consume it and why pregnant women need to avoid it. Some forms of this oil can be potent, so if you're unsure about your brand please check with your doctor or an aromatherapist before using it.
I must admit I have not tried this oil. BUT. I have heard wonderful success stories of diffused Cedarwood helping to induce a good night's rest, something that eludes many. Just one more example of how God provides for us through things in nature.
Some translations see the Cedarwood in Leviticus 14 as wood not an oil. Yet, it's part of the purification process after a house has been cleansed of mildew (NIV); sounds like the work of an oil to me. And by the way, I think the "mildew" translation makes better sense than a brown or red plague happening on a wall.
In Numbers 19 Cedarwood is part of the burnt offering of a red heifer for cleansing and purification from sin. And, we again see a wood whose oil is not just part of a renewal process but also the restoration that God will do to the land of Israel. (Ezekiel 17, 31 and Isaiah 41)
The godly are said to grow as tall and strong as a cedar in Psalm 92. This brings up a comparison I'd like to share. The tree species used for the oil which comes from the US and Morocco is said to be closely related to the cedars of Lebanon. When I think of the cedars of Lebanon I think of the redwoods of California. They are majestic and fit all the descriptions ever written about the cedars of Lebanon. Can you imagine having faith so strong that you could be compared to the huge redwoods that can't even be completely photographed in one close-up picture?
And the Bible eludes to this size when it describes cedars as the resting place of a giant eagle in Ezekiel 17. But Cedars were known for more than their beauty. (Numbers 24) They are also mentioned as an example of strength in something such as the tail of a giant animal in Job 40. The covering of a young girl's female parts in Song of Solomon 8.
Curiously, Strong's Concordance and Thompson Chain Reference Bible list cedar only as a wood, not an oil. In any case, either as an oil or as a wood there are far more references to Cedarwood than the previous woods we've discussed. I must admit when I first started writing about essential oils in the Bible I thought the oils of today would be oils in the Bible. But they're not. Nevertheless these oils, as trees, did have some purpose in the Bible. Actually, there are two other kinds of cedar oil, Western Cedar oil and Cedar Leaf oil, each has its own chemical make-up and particular uses. Cedarwood is the only one that is referred to as being in the Bible.
So if Cedarwood was only a wood in the Bible, would essential oil qualities have been seen?
Well, Cedar gives off a strong aroma which would have filled any house built with it. I have to believe that's why it was used in the building of David's palace, in the beloved's bedroom and in each of the temples. (2 Samuel; 1 Kings; 1 and 2 Chronicles; Song of Solomon; Ezra) Do not under estimate the benefits of aromatherapy. The aromatic effects of any essential oil puts it into use in multiple industries in the modern age.
An interesting fact I found in Essential Oils pocket reference is that the Egyptians used the oil for embalming the dead. It also states that the people of Tibet used it for incense and medicine. Presently, it is used for its calming and purifying properties. Because its therapeutic actions ultimately stimulate the release of melatonin many have used it for attention deficit issues as well as a sleep aid.
Isn't interesting that an oil known to kill fungus (mildew) can also calm the body enough to induce sleep? Hmm. Oh, but there's more. It's used as an antiseptic, astringent, diuretic and, get this, insecticide. Lovely. Which is probably why some sources say you should never consume it and why pregnant women need to avoid it. Some forms of this oil can be potent, so if you're unsure about your brand please check with your doctor or an aromatherapist before using it.
I must admit I have not tried this oil. BUT. I have heard wonderful success stories of diffused Cedarwood helping to induce a good night's rest, something that eludes many. Just one more example of how God provides for us through things in nature.
Tuesday, January 27, 2015
Biblical Oils - Myrtle
Last week we talked about Fir, another evergreen tree used to make essential oils. Some Biblical translations speak of myrtle instead of fir in the references to this tree. So today we'll mention a little about Myrtle and how it stands out as being different from Fir.
One of the differences is the processing of this oil. Where as Fir came from the woody parts of the tree, this oil comes from the leaves of the plant.
It doesn't have a laundry list of things it does for the body, but it packs a mighty wallop. It can be used by itself singly, but is also found in several mixtures that are fantastic at helping different health issues. According to Essential Oils pocket reference and Reference Guide for Essential Oils it is known to stimulate the thyroid, liver, and prostate. It also fights sinus and lung congestion, skin irritations, and muscle spasms.
As far as the history of this plant is concerned, it interestingly enough was worshiped as a plant of mystery by the Greeks according to Reference Guide to Essential Oils. I have never heard of a plant being worshiped. Hmm.
In the Bible references, myrtle is included when they gathered tree branches and limbs for festivities. (Zechariah 1, Nehemiah 8) And when God promises to bring back trees to the barren land the myrtle is mentioned. (Isaiah 41, 55)
So, we find that once again this essential oil of today is not mentioned as part of sacrifices or anointing oils in the Bible. But, it is part of renewal. How fascinating it is that a tree associated with renewal also has a renewing type impact on some body functions.
It never ceases to amaze me that God uses what we see in the physical realm to understand what He's saying in the spiritual realm.
One of the differences is the processing of this oil. Where as Fir came from the woody parts of the tree, this oil comes from the leaves of the plant.
It doesn't have a laundry list of things it does for the body, but it packs a mighty wallop. It can be used by itself singly, but is also found in several mixtures that are fantastic at helping different health issues. According to Essential Oils pocket reference and Reference Guide for Essential Oils it is known to stimulate the thyroid, liver, and prostate. It also fights sinus and lung congestion, skin irritations, and muscle spasms.
As far as the history of this plant is concerned, it interestingly enough was worshiped as a plant of mystery by the Greeks according to Reference Guide to Essential Oils. I have never heard of a plant being worshiped. Hmm.
In the Bible references, myrtle is included when they gathered tree branches and limbs for festivities. (Zechariah 1, Nehemiah 8) And when God promises to bring back trees to the barren land the myrtle is mentioned. (Isaiah 41, 55)
So, we find that once again this essential oil of today is not mentioned as part of sacrifices or anointing oils in the Bible. But, it is part of renewal. How fascinating it is that a tree associated with renewal also has a renewing type impact on some body functions.
It never ceases to amaze me that God uses what we see in the physical realm to understand what He's saying in the spiritual realm.
Wednesday, January 21, 2015
Bibical Oils - Fir
When we think of Firs we usually think of Christmas. The smell of a fresh evergreen tree filling the room or house soothes the senses as it ignites the mind to creating a celebration come Christmas Day. Never mind the needles left behind as it slowly dies near the end of the season. But even those give off a fragrance.
There is much to be said for the aromatic effects an essential oil can deliver. I must admit I thought it was silly to think that even smelling an essential oil could affect one's disposition or health. That is until an essential oil worked for me.
Fir is not a pretty smell. Reference Guide for Essential Oils described it as having a woody, earthly, fresh, sweet scent. I can agree with the woody and earth smell. As for the other descriptions I wonder if it is the physical tree and it's parts that are known for that. The oil itself is extracted from the bark, twigs, wood and needles. Like I said, I can agree to the woody scent.
As for the essential oil Fir there are actually specific kinds of Fir. According to Essential Oils pocket reference the essential oil today comes from Idaho and two types of trees. But, according to Reference Guide to Essential Oils there are four varieties from the USA, Canada, Balkans, and France. Overall these two books state it can be used for antitumoral, antioxidant, antifungal, cuts, depression, hemorrhoids, nervous tension, overworked muscles, pain relief, sore throats, or respiratory issues. And can be found in some combined oils and moisturizing cream and deodorants.
I would like to add that Reference Guide to Essential Oils repeated several times that this essential oil was good for colds and the flu. An important thing to know at this time of year. But heed the warning that not all forms of this are safe to be taken internally.
So how was it used in the Bible?
While sources site that it is found in the Bible, I didn't find any mention or implication of it being an essential oil. Oh, and as an aside, depending on your translation the verses may read pine, fir, myrtle or evergreen.
There is mention of fir being part of buildings, boats or musical instruments. (See 2 Samuel 6; Song of Solomon 1; Ezekiel 27; Nehemiah 8) Of all the woods used in the days of the Bible I find it interesting that it was specifically mentioned as being part of the buildings that Solomon built for the Lord. (See 1 Kings 6, 9 and 2 Chronicles 2, 3)
One unique aspect to this tree and its qualities is that it is associated with renewal. God will renew the land by bringing back firs where they once grew and where they never stood before. (Isaiah 41, 55, 60; Ezekiel 31) And, so important are they that a king of Assyria who cut down the firs was prophesied against because of it. (See 2 Kings 19; Isaiah 37)
This tree is also used to illustrate the mightiness of God in Hosea 14. And Psalm 104 continues in this comparison when it mentions the storks nesting in them. Have you ever seen a stork's nest? I have. They are huge. The nests were on the rooftops of houses because the trees nearby weren't big enough to hold them. That's how majestic these Biblical trees were. But as grandiose as they are, Zechariah 11 and Nahum 2 both mention that God is able to bring these trees down.
One last verse to reference. That is Isaiah14:8. Hello. The trees are exulting God? Do you remember Jesus saying if the people didn't shout praises that even the rocks would? (Luke 19) Can you imagine if we could hear at their frequency what we would hear? But then, that's another study.
Back to Fir. I have only covered the effects of Fir in this article, but pine and myrtle have similar benefits. I must admit that Fir has become one of my favorite oils. When I have prayed for relief from neck pain secondary to a physical ailment, the Lord replied with using Fir. Why I was amazed that it worked I have no idea...but it did. And I continue to use it when needed.
So while Fir was not specifically mentioned in the Bible as being an oil used for sacrifices or anointing, we do have it for our use in today's world. We can use it for the aromatic effects it has always been known to have, or the topical uses that have been found through the years. This is yet another way that God cares for His creation.
There is much to be said for the aromatic effects an essential oil can deliver. I must admit I thought it was silly to think that even smelling an essential oil could affect one's disposition or health. That is until an essential oil worked for me.
Fir is not a pretty smell. Reference Guide for Essential Oils described it as having a woody, earthly, fresh, sweet scent. I can agree with the woody and earth smell. As for the other descriptions I wonder if it is the physical tree and it's parts that are known for that. The oil itself is extracted from the bark, twigs, wood and needles. Like I said, I can agree to the woody scent.
As for the essential oil Fir there are actually specific kinds of Fir. According to Essential Oils pocket reference the essential oil today comes from Idaho and two types of trees. But, according to Reference Guide to Essential Oils there are four varieties from the USA, Canada, Balkans, and France. Overall these two books state it can be used for antitumoral, antioxidant, antifungal, cuts, depression, hemorrhoids, nervous tension, overworked muscles, pain relief, sore throats, or respiratory issues. And can be found in some combined oils and moisturizing cream and deodorants.
I would like to add that Reference Guide to Essential Oils repeated several times that this essential oil was good for colds and the flu. An important thing to know at this time of year. But heed the warning that not all forms of this are safe to be taken internally.
So how was it used in the Bible?
While sources site that it is found in the Bible, I didn't find any mention or implication of it being an essential oil. Oh, and as an aside, depending on your translation the verses may read pine, fir, myrtle or evergreen.
There is mention of fir being part of buildings, boats or musical instruments. (See 2 Samuel 6; Song of Solomon 1; Ezekiel 27; Nehemiah 8) Of all the woods used in the days of the Bible I find it interesting that it was specifically mentioned as being part of the buildings that Solomon built for the Lord. (See 1 Kings 6, 9 and 2 Chronicles 2, 3)
One unique aspect to this tree and its qualities is that it is associated with renewal. God will renew the land by bringing back firs where they once grew and where they never stood before. (Isaiah 41, 55, 60; Ezekiel 31) And, so important are they that a king of Assyria who cut down the firs was prophesied against because of it. (See 2 Kings 19; Isaiah 37)
This tree is also used to illustrate the mightiness of God in Hosea 14. And Psalm 104 continues in this comparison when it mentions the storks nesting in them. Have you ever seen a stork's nest? I have. They are huge. The nests were on the rooftops of houses because the trees nearby weren't big enough to hold them. That's how majestic these Biblical trees were. But as grandiose as they are, Zechariah 11 and Nahum 2 both mention that God is able to bring these trees down.
One last verse to reference. That is Isaiah14:8. Hello. The trees are exulting God? Do you remember Jesus saying if the people didn't shout praises that even the rocks would? (Luke 19) Can you imagine if we could hear at their frequency what we would hear? But then, that's another study.
Back to Fir. I have only covered the effects of Fir in this article, but pine and myrtle have similar benefits. I must admit that Fir has become one of my favorite oils. When I have prayed for relief from neck pain secondary to a physical ailment, the Lord replied with using Fir. Why I was amazed that it worked I have no idea...but it did. And I continue to use it when needed.
So while Fir was not specifically mentioned in the Bible as being an oil used for sacrifices or anointing, we do have it for our use in today's world. We can use it for the aromatic effects it has always been known to have, or the topical uses that have been found through the years. This is yet another way that God cares for His creation.
Tuesday, January 13, 2015
Biblical Oils - Hyssop
Next on our list is Hyssop.
Honestly I thought Hyssop was more a plant than an oil. I probably got this from reading Exodus 12 when the Israelites placed the blood of a lamb on the doorposts to ward off the last Egyptian plague. Or, from reading 1 Kings 4:33 where it talks about it growing out of the walls. Or, from reading John 19 when the Roman soldiers placed a sponge on a branch of hyssop to offer gall to Jesus. But when we read Psalm 51 we see that hyssop is used to purge someone of sin, so in that case it has to be an oil.
Leviticus 14 includes it with cedarwood (a post to come) as part of the cleansing of a person and of a home. But it steps up a notch in Numbers 19 when it's important enough to be included in the sin cleansing sacrifice of the red heifer for the nation of Israel. Hebrews 9 also says it was used by Moses as part of a ceremony after reading the law for the first time to the nation of Israel.
So what do they say about it today?
It too has a long laundry list of uses, similar to Frankincense. But, several of the sites I checked had warnings for this oil -- do not use if you have epilepsy or are pregnant. Also, keep it away from children. So while this oil has much it can do, externally and internally, it definitely comes with a warning list that might rival a pharmaceutical TV ad. Remember, while it might be used for one ailment it apparently strongly affects the other systems as well.
So, what can it do?
My sources were Young Living , Organic Facts , Essential Oils pocket reference, and Reference Guide for Essential Oils. According to them it has purifying qualities that makes it good for respiratory and viral infections, respiratory congestion, circulatory issues and parasites (worms). Some medical terms for its uses are: anti-inflammatory; antioxidant; anti-rheumatic; antiseptic; antispasmodic; astringent; carminative; cicatrisant; decongestant; diuretic; emmenagogue; mucolytic; sedative. Which when simplified means it is good for arthritis, aids in digestion, helps fade scars, increases frequency of urination, helps regulate the menstrual cycle, and reduces risks of nervous disorders.
It isn't one of the popular oils you hear about, but it does hold its own against other essential oils. Young Living was the only one to call it a slightly sweet wood scent. I guess this is why it was included in the sacrifices mentioned in Leviticus. Over all I found this oil to be quite interesting. For a plant that could grow out of rock walls it sure held many medicinal uses in the inner workings of its oil.
Honestly I thought Hyssop was more a plant than an oil. I probably got this from reading Exodus 12 when the Israelites placed the blood of a lamb on the doorposts to ward off the last Egyptian plague. Or, from reading 1 Kings 4:33 where it talks about it growing out of the walls. Or, from reading John 19 when the Roman soldiers placed a sponge on a branch of hyssop to offer gall to Jesus. But when we read Psalm 51 we see that hyssop is used to purge someone of sin, so in that case it has to be an oil.
Leviticus 14 includes it with cedarwood (a post to come) as part of the cleansing of a person and of a home. But it steps up a notch in Numbers 19 when it's important enough to be included in the sin cleansing sacrifice of the red heifer for the nation of Israel. Hebrews 9 also says it was used by Moses as part of a ceremony after reading the law for the first time to the nation of Israel.
So what do they say about it today?
It too has a long laundry list of uses, similar to Frankincense. But, several of the sites I checked had warnings for this oil -- do not use if you have epilepsy or are pregnant. Also, keep it away from children. So while this oil has much it can do, externally and internally, it definitely comes with a warning list that might rival a pharmaceutical TV ad. Remember, while it might be used for one ailment it apparently strongly affects the other systems as well.
So, what can it do?
My sources were Young Living , Organic Facts , Essential Oils pocket reference, and Reference Guide for Essential Oils. According to them it has purifying qualities that makes it good for respiratory and viral infections, respiratory congestion, circulatory issues and parasites (worms). Some medical terms for its uses are: anti-inflammatory; antioxidant; anti-rheumatic; antiseptic; antispasmodic; astringent; carminative; cicatrisant; decongestant; diuretic; emmenagogue; mucolytic; sedative. Which when simplified means it is good for arthritis, aids in digestion, helps fade scars, increases frequency of urination, helps regulate the menstrual cycle, and reduces risks of nervous disorders.
It isn't one of the popular oils you hear about, but it does hold its own against other essential oils. Young Living was the only one to call it a slightly sweet wood scent. I guess this is why it was included in the sacrifices mentioned in Leviticus. Over all I found this oil to be quite interesting. For a plant that could grow out of rock walls it sure held many medicinal uses in the inner workings of its oil.
Wednesday, December 31, 2014
Biblical Oils - Frankincense
Ah, Frankincense. The other oil brought to Jesus by the three wise men. So precious and sweet it was part of a special perfume God directed Moses to make for the temple. This perfume was to be considered holy for God alone. Not for man to use. (Exodus 30)
According to Connie and Alan Higley in their book Reference Guide to Essential Oils it is mentioned over 52 times in the Bible because they include the word incense which was sometimes translated from the word frankincense. By name, Frankincense is mentioned several times in the Bible, especially in Leviticus. You see, it was part of meat and bread offerings, but definitely not to be part of any sin offering. It was associated with perfuming the king or groom in Song of Solomon. It is listed among the items that will be lost when the great city of Babylon is destroyed in Revelations 18.
But what makes Frankincense stand out as an important gift to give a king?
It's rare because it's found in only two places in the world, Somalia and Oman. This made it very valuable -- even more than gold. For many centuries it was considered the holy anointing oil and thought to give healing. Life Science Publishing's book Essential Oils pocket reference notes that only those with abundant wealth, such as royalty and nobility, possessed it. So, of course, the wise men would want to ensure the new king would have the appropriate oils in his possession.
So what is Frankincense known to heal?
Let's see, Essential Oils pocket reference and Reference Guide for Essential Oils give quite a long list of this sesquiterpenes containing oil's uses. There's tumors, allergies, headaches, depression, respiratory issues, cancer, orthopedic problems, skin health, stomach disorders, blood pressure, nerve pain, dental diseases, mental disorders, insect bites, arthritis and osteoporosis. It's also known to stimulate the immune system, relax muscles, uplift attitudes and promote calming and relaxing. Is there anything it doesn't do?
Again, keeping in mind that Jesus was a healer he didn't need to have this oil to stay healthy. But as mentioned before, possession of this oil had been limited to only the wealthy and royal. Giving this oil to a baby in a small insignificant town was a statement of acceptance into the ranks of royalty. The wise men knew he was the king they had been seeking, and without having to speak a word they told all who saw their gifts that Jesus was royal and worthy of such treasures.
I have one other thought to share before I close. Joseph and Mary may have used the Frankincense and Myrrh for their own ailments until such time as Jesus could help them. But more importantly, when they arrived in Egypt they came with wealth and a way to support the baby Jesus. In a sense, they had the financial backing to get a home and establish a carpentry shop. By selling the oils, albeit perhaps a little at a time, they could support themselves until the time came when God called them to return to Israel. God is a provider for all, even when you've been sent packing away from family and friends to a foreign country.
According to Connie and Alan Higley in their book Reference Guide to Essential Oils it is mentioned over 52 times in the Bible because they include the word incense which was sometimes translated from the word frankincense. By name, Frankincense is mentioned several times in the Bible, especially in Leviticus. You see, it was part of meat and bread offerings, but definitely not to be part of any sin offering. It was associated with perfuming the king or groom in Song of Solomon. It is listed among the items that will be lost when the great city of Babylon is destroyed in Revelations 18.
But what makes Frankincense stand out as an important gift to give a king?
It's rare because it's found in only two places in the world, Somalia and Oman. This made it very valuable -- even more than gold. For many centuries it was considered the holy anointing oil and thought to give healing. Life Science Publishing's book Essential Oils pocket reference notes that only those with abundant wealth, such as royalty and nobility, possessed it. So, of course, the wise men would want to ensure the new king would have the appropriate oils in his possession.
So what is Frankincense known to heal?
Let's see, Essential Oils pocket reference and Reference Guide for Essential Oils give quite a long list of this sesquiterpenes containing oil's uses. There's tumors, allergies, headaches, depression, respiratory issues, cancer, orthopedic problems, skin health, stomach disorders, blood pressure, nerve pain, dental diseases, mental disorders, insect bites, arthritis and osteoporosis. It's also known to stimulate the immune system, relax muscles, uplift attitudes and promote calming and relaxing. Is there anything it doesn't do?
Again, keeping in mind that Jesus was a healer he didn't need to have this oil to stay healthy. But as mentioned before, possession of this oil had been limited to only the wealthy and royal. Giving this oil to a baby in a small insignificant town was a statement of acceptance into the ranks of royalty. The wise men knew he was the king they had been seeking, and without having to speak a word they told all who saw their gifts that Jesus was royal and worthy of such treasures.
I have one other thought to share before I close. Joseph and Mary may have used the Frankincense and Myrrh for their own ailments until such time as Jesus could help them. But more importantly, when they arrived in Egypt they came with wealth and a way to support the baby Jesus. In a sense, they had the financial backing to get a home and establish a carpentry shop. By selling the oils, albeit perhaps a little at a time, they could support themselves until the time came when God called them to return to Israel. God is a provider for all, even when you've been sent packing away from family and friends to a foreign country.
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