10 Medicinal Herbs, Oils and Foods of the Bible

This may seem like an unusual theme for an article, but allow me to explain my perspective. When we begin to delve into the wonders of the natural world, it’s absurd to me to think that this all could have happened “by chance.” There are simply too many variables; too many contingencies; too many dependencies in nature to try to explain their intricacies and interdependencies on happenstance.

Instead, I firmly believe that what we enjoy in nature today is the work of our Creator. I believe, “In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth.” (Genesis 1:1) I also believe that God continues to sustain and uphold all things and that He is active in our lives whether we choose to acknowledge Him or not. Psalm 104:13-15 bears this out beautifully in poetic form:

He waters the mountains from his upper chambers; the land is satisfied by the fruit of his work. He makes grass grow for the cattle, and plants for people to cultivate—bringing forth food from the earth: wine that gladdens human hearts, oil to make their faces shine, and bread that sustains their hearts.[1]

If this perspective is true, then it should come as no surprise to us that our Creator has provided for us some amazing natural remedies. Some of these are so accessible that we can pluck them from the garden or the forest. Others require a refining process of some kind and we wonder, “How in the world did mankind ever discover this?”

When we look at some of the healing herbs and oils of the Bible, I caution us not to award them any special prominence. While some of the Bible is prescriptive (telling us how we should live), much of it is descriptive (telling us how people of that era and locale lived). And in the case of these herbs, oils and foods, certainly these represent gifts from God to us, but they are not “God’s prescription” for us.

The Bible and the herbs and oils it describes center around the Middle East and ancient times. The people of that day used what was at hand. In other parts of the world and in other climates we enjoy some of the same herbs and oils, but also many different ones not available in the Middle East.

So what makes the herbs and oils of the Bible so special? It’s simply the wonder of knowing that those who lived thousands of years before us struggled with many of the same health issues that we face. Even back then, they enjoyed an amazing natural medicine chest stocked for them by their (and our) loving Creator, God. And we can enjoy these too.

10 Medicinal Herbs, Oils and Foods of the Bible

1. Dill

If you’re like me, you’re probably wondering, “What’s dill good for besides making dill pickles?” Matthew 23:23 mentions dill as an herb that was commonly grown in Bible times. As an herb, dill grows in many places all over the world. You may even grow it in your herb garden. Dill is extremely versatile and both the seeds and leaves are used in foods and medicines.

Dill’s medicinal values come primarily from monoterpenes compounds, flavonoids, minerals and amino acids.[2] These components act as an antioxidant and neutralize particular types of carcinogens, such as the smoke generated from roasting, grilling, charring or frying food.

Dill has been effective in the relief of:

• Insomnia
• Diarrhea
• Dysentery
• Menstrual disorders
• Respiratory issues
• Fungal and bacterial infections

Dill can also:

• Boost the immune system and digestion
• Help prevent arthritis and even cancer
• Promote bone health
• Help manage insulin levels in those with diabetes[3], [4], [5]

Make dill tea by crushing two teaspoons of dill seeds, steeping them in a cup of boiling water for ten minutes, and then straining.[6] You can also simply chew on dill seeds to reap their health benefits. Dill essential oil and dried dill leaves are also available as supplements.

2. Mint

Like dill, mint is also referred to in that passage in Matthew’s Gospel. Most of us are aware of the fresh, cool flavor of mint that’s used today in a wide variety of applications. But mint also packs some amazing health benefits. Of all foods known to mankind, mint is one of the highest in antioxidants.[7]

• Mint also possesses anti-inflammatory properties due to rosmarinic acid. This compound is noted for its ability to provide relief from seasonal allergies and keep breathing airways open.[8]
• Mint’s natural aromatic ingredient menthol helps relieve the common cold, indigestion, nausea, gas, and irritable bowel syndrome.
• Peppermint extract is also an excellent pain reliever.
• Mint oil can also provide relief from insect bites and rashes.[9]
• Mint aroma is also known to calm a person suffering depression or fatigue.[10]

You can chew mint leaves, make a tea from its leaves by steeping dried leaves for 10 minutes, or applying mint oil according to the manufacturer’s guidelines.

3. Cumin

This herb is the third one mentioned in that Matthew passage above. The active ingredients in cumin include cuminaldehyde and thymol. In particular, these two compounds activate the salivary glands that help digest food and relieve the distress of gas. This seed of good digestion stimulates the secretion of pancreatic enzymes, compounds necessary for proper digestion and nutrient assimilation. Cumin seeds and cumin essential oil pressed from its seeds provide its health benefits.

Cumin is used to treat:

• Piles
• Insomnia
• Respiratory disorders
• Asthma
• Bronchitis
• Anemia
• Skin disorders and boils
• Cancer (protects against stomach or liver tumors)

Additionally, cumin has anti-fungal and anti-microbial properties.[11] It also improves the immune system.[12]

You can make a tea by boiling two teaspoons of cumin seeds in water and steeping for ten minutes. Or, introduce cumin into your cooking by grinding cumin seeds to a powder using a mortar and pestle. Cumin compliments garbanzo beans, black beans, brown rice, as well as vegetables. Cumin seed essential oil is also available.

4. Rue

Rue, a less common herb, is mentioned in Luke 11:42. Rue grows wild or cultivated and displays a pretty yellow flower. Today, rue flourishes wild across North America in zones 6 through 11. Rue is more of a shrub than a plant and grows up to two feet tall.[13]

Rue is a good source of flavonoids and boasts an impressive set of medicinal compounds. Rue possesses properties as an antidote to poison, an anti-arthritic, anti-rheumatic, anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, insecticidal, sedative, digestive, anti-epileptic, and anti-hysteric.[14]

Rue is effective in relieving joint pain due to arthritis and rheumatism. In smoke or mist form it serves as an excellent insect repellant. It can also kill microbes and prevent bacterial infections. Rue essential oil can prove very effective against:

• Athlete’s foot
• Dermatitis
• Some types of poisoning (neurotoxins) including narcotics and venomous neurotoxic snake bites.[15]

We recommend that you use rue essential oil under the supervision of a healthcare professional.

5. Olive Oil

In the parable of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:34), the man who came to the aid of the victim who was beaten by robbers, “bandaged his wounds, pouring on oil and wine.” Of the natural health remedies we’re looking at from the Bible, olive oil is by far the most common. Olive oil was a household staple that was used for a wide variety of purposes including: cosmetics, religious rites, ointment, hair tonic, lamp oil, cooking, baking, and medicine.

To begin with, olive oil is a monounsaturated fat known to lower bad cholesterol and lower the risk of heart disease, high blood pressure and stroke.[16] As a result, olive oil is the primary source of fat in the Mediterranean diet, which boasts a low death rate from cardiovascular diseases.

Also, olive oil contains the phytonutrient oleocanthal that reduces inflammation. This has been shown to reduce the risk of breast cancer and may also reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease.[17]^, [18] Olive oil is also rich in antioxidants and vitamins E and K. Olive oil improves bone health and aids in calcium absorption.

Of course, the easiest way to take advantage of olive oil’s health benefits is to integrate it into your daily diet. You can do this in your cooking, baking, salad dressings, and numerous other ways. Also, consider using olive oil as a carrier oil for essential oils.

6. Myrrh Oil

In Esther 2:12 we read about myrrh being used for cosmetic purposes. Myrrh was also one of the gifts presented to Joseph and Mary when Jesus was born. Myrrh is an exotic resin derived from the tree native to Northern Africa and the Middle East. Myrrh oil is made from the dried resin.

Myrrh contains many healthful compounds including terpenoids that have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It also has sesquiterpenes, compounds that affect the emotions and hormone secretion.[19] Myrrh also strengthens the immune system.

Myrrh aids in the healing of wounds and infections. It promotes healthy skin, preventing the signs of aging, and soothes cracked or chapped skin. In fact, myrrh is a common ingredient in many skin-care products today.[20] Myrrh can also prevent gum and mouth diseases including tooth decay. It’s often used in the making of mouth washes and toothpastes. Myrrh essential oil is common in aromatherapy for massage, bathing, and simply as a lotion.

The best way to take advantage of myrrh’s health benefits is to purchase myrrh essential oil and use as directed by the manufacturer.

7. Frankincense Oil

Frankincense was one of the other costly gifts presented to the baby Jesus by the Magi who came to worship Him. Frankincense is similar to myrrh in that it comes from the resin of a tree. The Boswellia sacara tree grows in very arid climates.

Frankincense is a natural antiseptic, astringent and disinfectant. Also, its pleasant aroma affects the limbic system of the brain which influences the nervous system.[21] As a result, its aroma can help relieve stress and fight anxiety. Just add a few drops of this essential oil to your bath water and feel the stress melt away.

Frankincense essential oil is very versatile and can be used:

• As a home cleansing agent
• For oral hygiene to help prevent tooth decay
• As a skin astringent
• To relieve joint and muscle pain
• To reduce heart rate and blood pressure
• Bring emotional relief[22]

Frankincense has also been shown to fight some forms of cancer, balance hormone levels, cure insomnia and help with digestion.[23] Once again, find a great source of frankincense essential oil and use as prescribed. Using such oils in a diffuser is a common way to reap the benefits of such powerful oils safely.

8. Honey

Jacob asked his sons to put together a special gift for the ruler of Egypt. This gift included spices, myrrh, and honey (Genesis 43:11). Honey is one of those foods that’s so common, we may not realize the treasure trove of health benefits it has to offer. To begin with, honey boasts both antibacterial and antifungal properties and is loaded with antioxidants.[24]

Honey not only provides us with a natural sweetener, it can also help alleviate the symptoms of seasonal allergies and act as a cough suppressant. Honey also contains compounds that aid the body in the absorption of calcium, which is vital to brain and bone health. Perhaps most amazing is honey’s ability to heal wounds and burns. This is due to its antibacterial properties.[25]

Royal jelly is another type of honey that’s reserved by the bees for feeding their offspring when they first hatch. Royal jelly is particularly rich in minerals, vitamins and essential amino acids. Royal jelly has been used to:

• Lower blood pressure
• Inhibit some cancer growth
• Heal burns
• Reduce inflammation
• Impede the effects of aging[26]

You can buy local honey or royal jelly at health food stores and farmer’s markets. Beware of giving honey to infants as it may contain bacteria that they have not yet developed immunity against. This bacteria is not harmful to children (or adults) over a year old.

9. Wine

The Good Samaritan not only used olive oil, but wine to treat the wounds of the unfortunate traveler (Luke 10:34). Thinking back 2000 years and earlier, one of the things we have to take into consideration is the challenges people faced in terms of food preservation. For instance, grape juice could not last long without refrigeration. But the fermentation process gives grape juice quite an extended shelf-life.

Some of the health benefits of wine may include:

• Prolonging lifespan
• Reducing the risk of some cancers
• Improving mental health
• Providing benefits to the cardiovascular system[27]

Although rarely used as a disinfectant today, the Good Samaritan no doubt took advantage of wine’s alcohol content to disinfect the wounds of the man he assisted.

Like with most natural medicines, more is not better. Too much wine can have serious negative effects on the body. Drink wine (red or white appear to offer the same benefits) in moderation. That is, no more than one or two 5 oz. glasses per day.[28]

10. Salt

With all the hype about cutting back on salt in your diet, this one may surprise you. A Bible reference to salt in Ezekiel 16:4 seems to indicate that salt was used in the birthing process to help cleanse the newborn. Again, as we reflect back in time, salt played a huge role in its ability to preserve meats and vegetables. In this respect alone, salt was a lifesaver. How about salt in our diets today? Contrary to what we’ve been told, an extensive medical study reported by Scientific American indicates that lower salt consumption actually increases risk of death from heart disease![29]

Not only does salt make food taste better it also offers some important health benefits. One chief benefit of salt is that your body cannot live without it. Trying to eliminate salt from your diet can actually be dangerous for this reason. Hyponatremia (too low salt) can be life-threatening.

• Salt is necessary for the body to maintain proper pH in the stomach.
• Salt is also a natural antihistamine and also helps improve insulin sensitivity.
• Salt can also improve sleep quality, support thyroid function, and keep your hormones in balance.[30]
• In Europe, doctors still prescribe a swim in the salty Mediterranean Sea as a cure for psoriasis and eczema.

Go for the natural salt (Himalayan or sea salt) rather than processed salt when purchasing. Also, as with all other herbs, oils, and foods, use salt in moderation.

This article barely scratches the surface of the wonderful herbs, oils, spices, minerals, and healing foods that our loving Creator has provided for us. As you take advantage of these natural health remedies, please be sure to thank Him!

“The God who made the world and everything in it is the Lord of heaven and earth. He gives everyone life and breath and everything else.” – Acts 17:24-25

 

If you liked this article, then you’ll love these:

• 7 Ways Music Promotes Spiritual Health
• How to Have a Healthy Spiritual Immune System
• Our Spirit’s Role in Whole Body Health

 

 

Sources:
[1] Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV® Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.
[2] Organic Facts, “Dill,” nd, http://www.organicfacts.net/health-benefits/seed-and-nut/dill.html.
[3] Organic Facts, “Dill.”
[4] Natural Remedies, “Dill Herb Medicinal Benefits,” nd, http://www.naturalremedies.org/dill/.
[5] Organic Facts, “Dill.”
[6] Natural Remedies, “Dill Herb Medicinal Benefits.”
[7] Megan Ware, RDN, LD, “Mint: Health Benefits, Uses and Risks,” Medical News Today, 16 February 2016, http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/275944.php.
[8] Megan Ware, RDN, LD, “Mint: Health Benefits, Uses and Risks.”
[9] Megan Ware, RDN, LD, “Mint: Health Benefits, Uses and Risks.”
[10] Organic Facts, “Health Benefits of Mint,” nd, http://www.organicfacts.net/health-benefits/herbs-and-spices/health-benefits-of-mint.html.
[11] Organic Facts, “Health Benefits of Cumin,” nd, http://www.organicfacts.net/health-benefits/seed-and-nut/health-benefits-of-cumin.html.
[12] Organic Facts, “Health Benefits of Cumin.”
[13] Herb Wisdom, “Ruta/Rue (Ruta Graveolens),” nd, http://www.herbwisdom.com/herb-ruta-rua.html.
[14] Organic Facts, “Health Benefits of Rue Essential Oil,” nd, http://www.organicfacts.net/health-benefits/essential-oils/health-benefits-of-rue-essential-oil.html.
[15] Organic Facts, “Health Benefits of Rue Essential Oil.”
[16] Christian Nordqvist, “Olive Oil: Health Benefits, Nutritional Information,” Medical News Today, 25 January 2016, http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/266258.php.
[17] Olive Oil Times, “Olive Oil Health Benefits,” nd, http://www.oliveoiltimes.com/olive-oil-health-benefits.
[18] Christian Nordqvist, “Olive Oil: Health Benefits, Nutritional Information.”
[19] Joseph Mercola, MD, “Myrrh Oil: Benefits of This Holy Oil,” nd, http://articles.mercola.com/herbal-oils/myrrh-oil.aspx.
[20] Joseph Mercola, MD, “Myrrh Oil: Benefits of This Holy Oil.”
[21] Dr. Axe, “What Is Frankincense Good For? 8 Essential Oil Uses,” nd, http://draxe.com/what-is-frankincense/.
[22] Dr. Axe, “What Is Frankincense Good For? 8 Essential Oil Uses.”
[23] Dr. Axe, “What Is Frankincense Good For? 8 Essential Oil Uses.”
[24] Lizette Borreli, “Liquid Gold: 7 Health Benefits of Honey that Could Heal Your Whole Body,” Medical Daily, March 17, 2015, http://www.medicaldaily.com/liquid-gold-7-health-benefits-honey-could-heal-your-whole-body-325932.
[25] Lizette Borreli, “Liquid Gold: 7 Health Benefits of Honey that Could Heal Your Whole Body.”
[26] Organic Facts, “Health Benefits of Royal Jelly,” nd, http://www.organicfacts.net/health-benefits/animal-product/royal-jelly.html.
[27] Christian Nordqvist, “Wine: Health Benefits and Health Risks,” Medical News Today, April 7, 2016, http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/265635.php.
[28] Christian Nordqvist, “Wine: Health Benefits and Health Risks.”
[29] Joseph Mercola, MD, “The Guilty Pleasure that Could Save You from Heart Disease,” March 5, 2012, http://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2012/03/05/end-war-on-salt.aspx.
[30] Lauren, “12 Reasons Why Salt Is Good for You!” Empowered Sustenance, July 1, 2013, http://empoweredsustenance.com/salt-is-good-for-you/.