Essential Oils in the Bible: Biblical Aromatherapy
“Precious treasure and oil are in a wise man's dwelling, but a foolish man devours it.” Proverbs 21:20 ESV
The Bible contains numerous references to aromatic plants and oils, indicating their significant role in ancient daily life, religious practices, and medicinal applications.
Key Uses:
Religious Ceremonies:
Oils like frankincense, myrrh, and cassia were integral components of holy anointing oils and incense used in temple rituals. These were used for purification, consecration, and symbolizing prayer.
“Oil for the lamps, spices for the anointing oil and for the fragrant incense,” Exodus 25:6 ESV
Anointing with oil was a sacred act, signifying divine favor and setting individuals or objects apart for holy purposes.
“You shall take the anointing oil and pour it on his head and anoint him.” Exodus 29:7 ESV
Medicinal Purposes:
Essential oils were used for healing wounds, treating illnesses, and promoting overall well-being.
“Is anyone among you sick? Let him call for the elders of the church, and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord.” James 5:14
“He went to him and bound up his wounds, pouring on oil and wine….” Luke 10:34
Myrrh, for example, was used as an antiseptic and analgesic.
Personal Hygiene and Cosmetics:
Fragrant oils were used as perfumes, ointments, and to enhance personal hygiene.
They were applied to the skin and hair for their aromatic and beautifying properties.
“…regular period of their beautifying, six months with oil of myrrh and six months with spices and ointments for women” Esther 2:12
Burial Practices:
Myrrh and aloes were used in the preparation of bodies for burial, as seen in the anointing of Jesus' body.
“Mary therefore took a pound of expensive ointment made from pure nard, and anointed the feet of Jesus and wiped his feet with her hair. The house was filled with the fragrance of the perfume.” John 12:3
Symbolic Meanings:
Oils were often used metaphorically to represent joy, gladness, and spiritual blessings.
“You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; you anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.” Psalms 23:5
“You have loved righteousness and hated wickedness. Therefore God, your God, has anointed you with the oil of gladness beyond your companions;” Psalms 45:7
Notable Oils and Plants:
Frankincense:
Highly valued for its aromatic resin, used in incense and as a gift to Jesus.
Symbolized prayer and worship.
Myrrh:
Used for its medicinal and preservative properties, also a gift to Jesus.
Associated with suffering and death, but also with healing.
Cassia:
A spice similar to cinnamon, used in anointing oils.
Cedarwood:
Valued for its durable wood and aromatic oil, used in construction and purification.
Hyssop:
Used for purification rituals.
Spikenard:
A costly aromatic oil used to anoint Jesus.
Significance:
The frequent mention of these substances indicates their importance in the cultural and spiritual context of biblical times.
These aromatic substances were clearly very valuable commodities.
Essential oils in the Bible were not merely fragrances; they were deeply intertwined with religious practices, healing, and everyday life.
These substances were used in ancient times with care in obedience to directives given by God through the leaders who had the knowledge on how they were to be used. Today these essential oils should be used with care, and with proper research.
There is a company that is proving itself worthy of being trusted. That company can speak for itself.
dōTERRA
dōTERRA emphasizes a commitment to scientific research and rigorous testing of its essential oils. Here's a breakdown of key aspects of their research efforts:
Key Research Areas:
Purity and Quality:
dōTERRA's "Certified Pure Tested Grade" (CPTG) protocol involves extensive testing, including gas chromatography and mass spectrometry, to ensure the purity and potency of their oils. This aims to verify that the oils are free from contaminants, fillers, and synthetic ingredients.
Clinical Research:
dōTERRA conducts and supports clinical studies to investigate the effects of essential oils on human health. These studies explore various applications, such as stress reduction, sleep improvement, and metabolic health.
They have also partnered with institutions like Roseman University to do further research on the effects of their oils.
Molecular Biology:
dōTERRA utilizes advanced technologies like BioSeek® and BioMap® platforms to examine how essential oils may influence protein expression at the molecular level. This research aims to understand the mechanisms by which essential oils interact with cells.
Product-Specific Research:
dōTERRA conducts research on specific product lines, such as:
The dōTERRA Serenity® Sleep System.
The dōTERRA MetaPWR® system.
The dōTERRA Adaptiv® line.
The dōTERRA Lifelong Vitality Pack®.
These studies aim to provide scientific evidence for the efficacy of these products.
Important Considerations:
While dōTERRA invests in research, it's essential to remember that the field of essential oil research is ongoing.
It is important to look at all research with a critical eye.
It is also important to note that essential oils should not replace conventional medical treatment.
Where to Find Information:
dōTERRA's official website provides information on their research initiatives, including summaries of studies and details about their testing protocols.
By focusing on these research areas, dōTERRA aims to provide scientific backing for the use of its essential oils.
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