Biblical Healing Herbs

"Behold, I have given you every herb bearing seed which is upon the face of the Earth... " Genesis 1:29. It is not uncommon to find both practical and spiritual uses of plants and herbs throughout the Bible. Plants are first introduced as a food source in the Old Testament book of Genesis, and as a spiritual and healing element in the book of Exodus (Exodus 25-35). Because of the historicity of plant/ herb usage, plants and herbs remain prevalent to healing as an alternative to modern medicine, even within post-modern context today.

History

• Plants and herbs have maintained historical use across cultures and civilizations throughout generations. Although herbs are primarily recognized as a healthy food source in Western culture, they maintain an even greater recognition for their spiritual, medicinal and healing properties amongst practitioners of alternative medicine. Though often used as a seasoning for food, garlic is multi-purposeful in alternative medicine. According to Ellen Kamhi, "The Natural Nurse," "During the Middle Ages it was a common Christian tradition to carry garlic as a good luck charm that could ward off demons." She further suggests that scientific research now links garlic consumption to several health benefits, as garlic has the natural ability to kill pathogenic microorganisms. The same can be said for other herbs initially introduced via the Bible.

Commonly Used Herbs and Plants

• Frankincense, myrrh, cedar, olive, almond, hyssop, thistle, acacia wood, garlic, nettle, honey, mint and corriandar are a few of the many herbs used during the biblical era. Herbs were combined or used separately for medicinal and/or spiritual purposes. Almonds, for example, were used for the treatment of impotence. Anise, a small and bitter seed, was used as a natural breath freshener after meals. Hyssop is still used today as an antiseptic for the treatment of cold sores; frankincense remains a popular treatment for cystitis, boils and other skin disorders.

Bottom Line

• The bottom line is that biblical herbs are yet acknowledged for healing in various contexts. Although they are natural, and are naturally used for healing, you must still take caution. Herbs can have adverse side effects with particular synthetic medicines. For this reason, consult with your physician or a licensed doctor of naturopathy prior to use. For an exhaustive list of biblical herbs and their healing properties, refer to the Natural Nurse reference link.