Oils of Ancient Scripture

“He was accompanied by Nicodemus… Nicodemus brought a mixture of myrrh and aloes, about seventy-five pounds.” John 19:39–40

THEN

Aloes appears in the Bible five times in both Testaments. Believed to be made from fragrant sandalwood, it was used to prepare Jesus' body for burial. The amount Nicodemus purchased would be worth over $200,000 today — a testimony to how important Jesus was.

NOW

• Diffuse before bedtime when the mind is racing
• Apply as a warm, woodsy perfume or cologne
• Add to daily skin care to enhance natural radiance

A spice made from the bark of East Asian evergreen trees, closely related to cinnamon.

“All your robes are fragrant with myrrh and aloes and cassia…” Psalm 45:8

THEN

Mentioned three times in the Old Testament, cassia was a key ingredient in the incense of temple worship, the anointing oil, and the oil that burned daily in the temple lamps. It dates back to Egyptian times and was used during mummification.

NOW

• Rub a drop through your hair for a warm, spicy aroma
• Diffuse with Clove, Ginger, or Christmas Spirit during fall & winter

Safety: Dilute well with carrier oil — may feel warm on skin. Use with caution if pregnant; avoid on children and sensitive areas.

“His splendor will be like an olive tree, his fragrance like a cedar of Lebanon.” Hosea 14:6

THEN

Mentioned 21 times in the Bible, cedar wood built Solomon's temple. Egyptians used it for embalming, perfumery, and cosmetics; the Greeks believed it offered immortality.

NOW

• Add a drop to aftershave or cologne
• Blend into lotion for smoother-looking skin
• Add to shampoo for healthier-looking hair
• Diffuse or apply topically before bed for restful sleep

“He cut down cedars, or perhaps took a cypress or oak…” Isaiah 44:14

THEN

Cypress is extracted from the cypress tree — wood so durable that the doors of Rome's St. Peter's Basilica were crafted from it and lasted over 1,000 years. It was a symbol of strength and endurance in ancient times.

NOW

• Diffuse for a fresh, evergreen atmosphere
• Apply to feet and legs after a long day
• Blend with citrus oils for an uplifting experience

“…they bowed down and worshiped him. Then they opened their treasures and presented him with gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh.” Matthew 2:11

THEN

Frankincense is mentioned 22 times in the Bible. A gift fit for royalty, it was offered to Jesus at birth and used in temple rituals, anointing, and ceremonies across the ancient world.

NOW

• Apply to face to smooth the appearance of skin
• Diffuse during meditation or prayer
• Blend with a carrier oil for a grounding daily massage

“Cleanse me with hyssop, and I will be clean; wash me, and I will be whiter than snow.” Psalm 51:7

THEN

Hyssop is mentioned 12 times in the Bible and was used in ceremonial cleansing rituals. Its fragrance and properties made it a symbol of purification across cultures.

NOW

• Diffuse for a fresh, herbaceous atmosphere
• Blend with lavender or frankincense for quiet reflection
• Dilute and apply during seasonal transitions

“…gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh.” Matthew 2:11

THEN

Myrrh is mentioned 156 times in scripture. Gifted to Jesus at His birth and His burial, it was central to anointing oils, embalming practices, and sacred ceremony.

NOW

• Add to skin care for a youthful-looking complexion
• Diffuse for a warm, grounding aroma
• Apply topically with a carrier oil for soothing self-massage

“Instead of the thornbush will grow the juniper, and instead of briers the myrtle will grow.” Isaiah 55:13

THEN

Myrtle is mentioned six times in the Bible and has long symbolized love, peace, and renewal. Its gentle, uplifting aroma made it a favorite in temple celebrations.

NOW

• Diffuse during morning routines for an uplifting start
• Blend into skin care for a balanced complexion
• Apply topically during seasonal shifts