Essential Oils in the Bible That Starts with A – Z

There are over 600+ references to essential oils in the Bible and 33 oils are named.

This gives us a good jumping off ground to how oils were used in Bible times as well as how they can be used today! 

But oils aren’t JUST for medicinal purposes or ritual cleansing, they also affect your emotions too, and the Bible speaks to that effect in:

• Proverbs 27:9
• Isaiah 61:3
• Hebrews 1:9
• Psalm 45:7-8

Oils are referred to as the oils of gladness. All of the mint and citrus oils have a joyful scent to them that affect your amygdala gland and make you HAPPY! Take that depression! 💣 Melissa and Deep Blue are also great for depression, but those two aren’t specifically listed in the Bible.

Essential Oils in the Bible That Starts with A – Z

God packed the Bible with beautiful, fragrant oils, and every single one has a purpose! 💧 From healing and using for medicinal purposes and using in your cooking to using in religious rituals or burials, these essential oils weren’t just nice-smelling extras…they were powerful tools used by God’s people to live a holy life. 

Whether you’re curious about how they were used or looking for natural ways to incorporate them into your day, this A–Z list will inspire awe in both your heart and your senses. 💕

Be sure to check out my other A-Z lists too for more fun! 🥳

• Plants, Trees, and Shrubs in the Bible A-Z
• Christian Character Traits A-Z
• Attributes of God That Start with A-Z
• Christian Words That Start with A-Z
• Godly Prayers That Start with A-Z

Let’s dive right in…

• Essential oils in the Bible that starts with A 

Acacia (Isaiah 41:19 ESV)

• Used for in the Bible: commodity/form of payment. The wood was used to create things such as the Ark of the Covenant, the Table of Showbread, the Altar of Incense, and the Tabernacle, as well as small lumber products and bowls. The oil from the acacia tree’s fruit was used to make soap and massage oil
• Used for nowadays: perfume, moisturizing and soothing skin
• Where to buy: none available from a trusted source

Aloes (Sandalwood) (Psalm 45:8 ESV)

• Used for in the Bible: incense, embalming, preparing bodies for burial, religious rituals, healing, anointing, natural fragrance for the bedroom (Proverbs 7:17), used to set apart people and objects as holy
• Used for nowadays: supports the cardiovascular system, acne, nervous tension, antidepressant, exhaustion, laryngitis, Alzheimer’s Disease, back pain, cartilage repair, confusion, exhaustion, moles, dry skin, vitiligo, circulation, hiccups, lymphatic system, menstrual problems tuberculosis, calms the mind
• Where to buy: Amazon

Anise (Matthew 23:23 KJV)

• Used for in the Bible: used for tithing, cooking, medicinal
• Used for nowadays: comforting during menopause, cooking/flavoring, indigestion, bloating, gas, menstrual cramps, psoriasis, cough, congestion, supports healthy cardiovascular system, relaxing
• Where to buy: Amazon

• Essential oils in the Bible that starts with B

Balsam (Exodus 25:6 NASB)

• Used for in the Bible: covering wounds, healing, anointing, sacrifice, burial
• Used for nowadays: fragrance, flavoring, calming, uplifting, energizing, decongestant, wound healing, used in cleaners, relaxes muscles, respiratory
• Where to buy: Amazon

Bay Laurel (Psalm 37:35 ESV)

• Used for in the Bible: enhance clarity of thought and retention of knowledge 
• Used for nowadays: spice, flavoring, repels pests, rheumatism, blood pressure, clear thinking, concentration, cleaning products, encourages a positive outlook, respiratory system
• Where to buy: Amazon

• Essential oils in the Bible that starts with C

Calamus (Exodus 30:23 KJV)

• Used for in the Bible: anointing, healing, fragrance
• Used for nowadays: ulcers, asthma, depression, headache, upset stomach, appetite stimulation, arthritis
• Where to buy: none available from a trusted source

Camphire (Song of Solomon 1:14 KJV)

• Used for in the Bible: perfume, anointing, leprosy
• Used for nowadays: hair and skin care (conditioning, moisturizing, rejuvenates mature skin), perfume, promotes hair growth, dandruff, soothes scalp
• Where to buy: none available from a trusted source

Cane (Aromatic Cane: Exodus 30:23 ESV / Sweet-Smelling Cane: Exodus 30:23 NKJV / Fragrant Cane: Exodus 30:23 NASB)

• Used for in the Bible: anointing, healing, fragrance
• Used for nowadays: ulcers, asthma, depression, headache, upset stomach, appetite stimulation, arthritis
• Where to buy: none available from a trusted source

Cassia (Psalm 45:8 ESV, Exodus 30:24 ESV)

• Used for in the Bible: domestic spice, colds, colic, nausea, healing, anointing, commodity/form of payment, fragrance, spiritual cleansing, purification
• Used for nowadays: supports the cardiovascular system, circulation, thickens hair, arthritic pain, stress relief, bug repellent, immune support, self-assurance, courage, unashamed, shyness
• Where to buy: Amazon

Cedarwood (Leviticus 14:4 ESV)

• Used for in the Bible: insect-repelling, diuretic, calming, ritual cleaning, temple construction, healing of leprosy and skin conditions
• Used for nowadays: anxiety, arthritis, dandruff, water retention, social bonds, sociable, gives a sense of belonging and being supported
• Where to buy: Amazon

Cinnamon (Proverbs 7:17 ESV, Exodus 30:23 ESV)

• Used for in the Bible: depression, weak heart, tranquilizer, healing, anointing, natural fragrance for the bedroom (Proverbs 7:17), skin conditions, commodity/form of payment
• Used for nowadays: sexual stimulant, circulation, colds, digestion, exhaustion, flu, infections, warts, body acceptance, intimacy
• Where to buy: Amazon

Cistus (Rose of Sharon) (Song of Solomon 2:1)

• Used for in the Bible: incense, religious rituals, medicinal, promotes reflection, skincare products, fragrance
• Used for nowadays: fragrance, Lyme Disease, respiratory, digestive issues
• Where to buy: none available from a trusted source

Coriander (Exodus 16:31 ESV)

• Used for in the Bible: dysentery, measles, nausea, toothache, hernias, one of the bitter herbs designated to be eaten as Passover. Coriander has been found in Ancient Egyptian tombs along with other offerings such as mustard seeds, parsley, and lotus seeds
• Used for nowadays: arthritic, colds, measles, migraine, flu, nausea, poor circulation, colic, gout, menstrual pain, true to self
• Where to buy: doTerra

Crocus (Isaiah 35:1 ESV)

• Used for in the Bible: used in religious ceremonies, perfumes, used in the bridegroom’s garland at weddings. The Ancient Egyptians used roses in religious ceremonies, and roses have been found next to mummies in tombs
• Used for nowadays: anxiety, poison ivy, poison oak, prevents scarring, chronic bronchitis, liver congestion, poor circulation, fever, loved, compassionate, healing, tenderhearted, accepted, empathy
• Where to buy: Amazon

Cumin (Matthew 23:23 ESV)

• Used for in the Bible: spice, used for tithing, used in mummification practices
• Used for nowadays: balanced zeal, considerate, respectful
• Where to buy: none available from a trusted source

Cypress (Genesis 6:14 NIV; Isaiah 60:13 ESV)

• Used for in the Bible: menstrual flow, urinary system, respiratory system, Noah’s Ark was made of “gopher” wood (which is a cypress tree), commodity/form of payment, supports the circulatory system
• Used for nowadays: arthritis, bronchitis, cramps, hemorrhoids, insomnia, intestinal parasites, varicose veins, water retention, energy, fever, gallbladder, influenza, lung circulation, whooping cough, wounds, flexible, trusting, adaptable
• Where to buy: Amazon

• Essential oils in the Bible that starts with D

Dill (Matthew 23:23 ESV)

• Used for in the Bible: flavoring in cooking, medicinal, used for tithing
• Used for nowadays: cholesterol, flavoring, colic, constipation, headaches, indigestion, liver deficiencies, nervousness, supporting pancreas function, insect repellent, motivation, mental clarity
• Where to buy: Amazon

• Essential oils in the Bible that starts with E

Elm (Isaiah 60:13 NASB)

• Used for in the Bible: anti-inflammatory, calming, digestive support, soothing sore throats, skin healing, cleanse minor wounds
• Used for nowadays: relief for muscle and joint discomfort, calming effect on the nervous system, reduce stress, promote relaxation, respiratory issues
• Where to buy: none available from a trusted source

• Essential oils in the Bible that starts with F

Fir (Isaiah 60:13 ESV)

• Used for in the Bible: purification, cleansing, anointing, fragrance, medicinal, wood was used to craft musical instruments
• Used for nowadays: asthma, bronchitis, congestion, cough, flu, focus, infection, colds, respiratory weakness, rheumatism, wounds, energizing, muscle pain, sprains, wisdom, learning from the past, comforted, honest, perspective, peaceful, cuts
• Where to buy: Amazon

Frankincense (Matthew 2:11 ESV, Leviticus 2:16 ESV)

• Used for in the Bible: gift from the wise men to baby Jesus, incense, commodity/form of payment, medicinal, anointing, included in certain meat offerings, burnt offerings
• Used for nowadays: Alzheimer’s Disease, arthritis, asthma, cough, memory, mental fatigue, moles, Parkinson’s Disease, prevents scars, ulcers, allergies, bronchitis, colds, headaches, healing, high blood pressure, laryngitis, strep throat, stress, enlightened, loved, protected, wisdom, discerning 
• Where to buy: Amazon

• Essential oils in the Bible that starts with G

Galbanum (Exodus 30:34 ESV)

• Used for in the Bible: incense, purification
• Used for nowadays: Regulates emotions, but smells nasty (smells like cigarettes/cigars) 🤢
• Where to buy: none available from a trusted source

• Essential oils in the Bible that starts with H

Henna (Song of Solomon 1:14 ESV)

• Used for in the Bible: perfume, anointing, leprosy
• Used for nowadays: hair and skin care (conditioning, moisturizing, rejuvenates mature skin), perfume, promotes hair growth, dandruff, soothes scalp
• Where to buy: none available from a trusted source

Hyssop (Leviticus 14:4 ESV)

• Used for in the Bible: cleanse home, cleanse body, healing, spice, fragrance, purification, medicinal (Romans believed it protected against plagues)
• Used for nowadays: improve air quality, relaxation, soothe dry skin, cough, cold, bronchitis, flavoring, fragrance, cosmetics
• Where to buy: none available from a trusted source

Essential oils in the Bible that starts with I

• none

• Essential oils in the Bible that starts with J

Juniper Berry (Psalms 120:4 KJV, Job 30:4 KJV, Isaiah 60:13 NIV)

• Used for in the Bible: physical and spiritual purification, cleaning infections, healing wounds, embalming, headaches, fever
• Used for nowadays: eczema, UTI, kidney stones, acne, tinnitus, cough, hemorrhoids, liver problems, rheumatism, ulcers, wounds, protected, peaceful, courageous, self-aware
• Where to buy: doTerra

• Essential oils in the Bible that starts with K

• none

• Essential oils in the Bible that starts with L 

• Laurel (Psalm 37:35 ESV)

• Used for in the Bible: enhance clarity of thought and retention of knowledge 
• Used for nowadays: spice, flavoring, repels pests, rheumatism, blood pressure, clear thinking, concentration, cleaning products, encourages a positive outlook, respiratory system
• Where to buy: Amazon

• Essential oils in the Bible that starts with M

Mint (Matthew 23:23 ESV)

• Used for in the Bible: ritual cleansing, used for tithing, healing, fragrance
• Used for nowadays: respiratory, digestive support, insect repellent, headaches, migraines, muscle and joint pain, cold, cough, sinus infection, irritable bowel syndrome, nausea, boosts alertness, increases productivity, eczema, hair growth, improves scalp health, flavoring, soaps/cosmetics
• Where to buy: none available from a trusted source (Spearmint: Amazon) (Peppermint: Amazon)

Mustard Seed (Matthew 17:20 ESV, Matthew 13:31 ESV)

• Used for in the Bible: spice, condiment, medicinal. Mustard seeds were found in Ancient Egyptian tombs along with other offerings such as coriander, parsley, and lotus seeds
• Used for nowadays: spice, condiment, flavoring, inhibits the growth of yeast/mold/bacteria, inflammation
• Where to buy: none available from a trusted source

Myrrh (Psalm 45:7-8 ESV, Esther 2:12 ESV; Proverbs 7:17 ESV)

• Used for in the Bible: healing, anointing, purification (Esther 2:12), gift from the wise men to baby Jesus, natural fragrance for the bedroom (Proverbs 7:17), embalming, incense
• Used for nowadays: chapped/cracked skin, congestion, dysentery, gum disease, hyperthyroidism, infection, stretch marks, ulcers (duodenal), wounds, asthma, athlete’s foot, candida, cough, eczema, digestion, gingivitis, hemorrhoids, sore throats, ringworm, skin conditions, gives a sense of being safe in the world, healthy attachments, trusting, bonding, loved, nurtured, grounded
• Where to buy: Amazon

Myrtle (Isaiah 41:19 ESV)

• Used for in the Bible: anointing, healing, perfume, used in ritualistic ceremonies (circumcision, redemption of the firstborn). Myrtle branches were used to cover temporary booths during the Feast of Tabernacles and used to create wreaths for bridegrooms 
• Used for nowadays: skincare (oily skin), aromatherapy (soothing/calming), spice, flavoring, natural deodorant, used in wedding ceremonies
• Where to buy: none available from a trusted source

• Essential oils in the Bible that starts with N

• none

• Essential oils in the Bible that starts with O

Onycha (Exodus 30:34 ESV)

• Used for in the Bible: anointing, incense, perfume, used in religious rituals
• Used for nowadays: perfume, improve complexion and help nourish the skin, comforting and soothing
• Where to buy: none available from a trusted source

• Essential oils in the Bible that starts with P

Pine (Isaiah 60:13 ESV, Isaiah 41:19 KJV)

• Used for in the Bible: used in religious rituals. The wood was used in building (houses, ships, other structures), crafting (pine cones), and to make tools.
• Used for nowadays: cleaning products, tea (high in vitamin c and good for respiratory system), wound healing, crafting (pine cones), food (pine nuts), firestarters (wood)
• Where to buy: Amazon

• Essential oils in the Bible that starts with Q

• none

• Essential oils in the Bible that starts with R

Rose (Isaiah 35:1 NKJV)

• Used for in the Bible: used in religious ceremonies, perfumes, used in the bridegroom’s garland at weddings. The Ancient Egyptians used roses in religious ceremonies, and roses have been found next to mummies in tombs
• Used for nowadays: anxiety, poison ivy, poison oak, prevents scarring, chronic bronchitis, liver congestion, poor circulation, fever, loved, compassionate, healing, tenderhearted, accepted, empathy
• Where to buy: Amazon

Rose of Sharon (Cistus) (Song of Solomon 2:1 ESV)

• Used for in the Bible: incense, religious rituals, medicinal, promotes reflection, skincare products, fragrance
• Used for nowadays: stress, respiratory system, wound healing, ulcers, used in soaps (anti-aging), arthritis, menstrual cramps, to control bleeding
• Where to buy: none available from a trusted source

Rue (Luke 11:42 ESV)

• Used for in the Bible: garden herb, used for tithing, used in cooking, medicinal (it was believed to be an antidote for poison), used in sprinkling holy water
• Used for nowadays: insect repellent, upset stomach, loss of appetite, muscle spasms, muscle cramps, heart problems, breathing issues, nervous system problems, aromatherapy, soaps, cosmetics
• Where to buy: none available from a trusted source

*Rue essential oil is contraindicated during pregnancy due to its potential to induce uterine contractions and cause miscarriage.

• Essential oils in the Bible that starts with S

Saffron (Song of Solomon 4:14 ESV)

• Used for in the Bible: spice, religious rituals, perfume, dye, used as offerings, incense, anointing
• Used for nowadays: highly sought after spice, reduce hyperpigmentation, lighten skin tone, reduce acne and prevent breakouts, faster healing of wounds, cuts, and burns, hydrates and moisturizes the skin, stimulate hair growth, soothe irritated and itchy scalps, protect the body against damage from free radicals, PMS relief, improve mood, reduce anxiety, improve lung function and respiratory symptoms, helps suppress the appetite and promotes weight loss, slows down the progression of macular regeneration
• Where to buy: none available from a trusted source

Sandalwood (Aloes) (Psalm 45:8)

• Used for in the Bible: incense, embalming, preparing bodies for burial, religious rituals, healing, anointing, natural fragrance for the bedroom (Proverbs 7:17), used to set apart people and objects as holy
• Used for nowadays: supports the cardiovascular system, acne, nervous tension, antidepressant, exhaustion, laryngitis, Alzheimer’s Disease, back pain, cartilage repair, confusion, exhaustion, moles, dry skin, vitiligo, circulation, hiccups, lymphatic system, menstrual problems, tuberculosis, calms the mind
• Where to buy: Amazon

Shittah (Isaiah 41:19 KJV)

• Used for in the Bible: commodity/form of payment. The wood was used to create things such as the Ark of the Covenant, the Table of Showbread, the Altar of Incense, and the Tabernacle, as well as small lumber products and bowls. The oil from the shittah tree’s fruit was used to make soap and massage oil
• Used for nowadays: perfume, moisturizing and soothing skin
• Where to buy: none available from a trusted source

Spikenard (John 12:3 KJV)

• Used for in the Bible: perfume, ointment, medicinal, preparing a body for burial, anointing, incense, used as a perfume in religious ceremonies
• Used for nowadays: insomnia, nervousness, perfume, rashes, allergies, candida, migraine, nausea, stress, wounds, grateful, acceptance, content, peaceful
• Where to buy: Amazon

• Essential oils in the Bible that starts with T

Terebinth (Isaiah 6:13 ESV)

• Used for in the Bible: medicinal, wine preservative, lamp fuel. Abraham met with the Lord by the terebinth trees and an angel appeared to Gideon under a Terebinth tree. 
• Used for nowadays: moisturize the skin, promote elasticity and firmness of the skin, wound healing, promote healthy hair, improve hair growth, aromatherapy (calming, stress-reducing), chronic bronchial infections, urinary infections, gallstones, arthritis, gout, sciatica, spice
• Where to buy: none available from a trusted source

• Essential oils in the Bible that starts with U

• none

• Essential oils in the Bible that starts with V 

• none

• Essential oils in the Bible that starts with W

Wormwood (Revelation 8:11 ESV)

• Used for in the Bible: Jeremiah describes his sorrow as being filled with bitterness and made to drink wormwood. 
• Used for nowadays: stimulate digestion (bitterness), increase appetite, indigestion, bloating, dyspepsia, irritable bowel syndrome, intestinal parasites, joint pain, muscle pain, menstruation pain, supports liver function and health, aromatherapy (eases muscle tension)
• Where to buy: none available from a trusted source

*Wormwood should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding.

• Essential oils in the Bible that starts with X

• none

• Essential oils in the Bible that starts with Y

• none

• Essential oils in the Bible that starts with Z 

• none

 

Other oils that were not mentioned in the Bible specifically, but have a notable presence in that time period of history:

Caraway – Ancient Egyptians used the spice in religious rituals and in cooking to make foods more digestible. Theophrastus recorded a recipe for oysters, eaten with caraway.

Cardamon – used in India as a spice and for medicinal purposes before Christ’s time. Greek philosopher Plutarch described how the Ancient Egyptians used it in their religious ceremonies and added it to their perfumes. They also used it as a diuretic and found it effective against epilepsy, spasms, paralysis, and rheumatic stiffness of joints. They added it to their wines to extract the therapeutic value of the seeds. 

Chamomile – Chamomile was sacred to the Ancient Egyptians, according to Hippocrates, who dedicated it to the Sun because it cured agues (malaria). 

Clove – Cloves were known to the Ancient Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans.

Fennel – Theophrastus and Pliny preferred fennel over anise. Dioscorides and Hippocrates both spoke of fennel as well. The Romans used it for its digestive properties. The Greeks believed fennel was a slimming herb, as it is slightly diuretic.

Ginger – The Ancient Egyptians grew ginger and used it in their cooking. The Greeks and Romans also used it, both medicinally and in their cooking. 

Lavender – The Romans added lavender to their bath water. Dioscorides, Galen, and Pliny have all mentioned Lavender oil.

Lemon – Greeks and Romans used the peel to perfume clothes and to act as a pesticide.

Marjoram – Dioscorides made a pommade called ‘amaricimum’ with marjoram that was used for nervous disorders. Pliny prescribed it for stomach disorders.

Melissa – The name Melissa derives from the Greek word for bee because the plant is irresistible to bees. Theophrastus and Dioscorides wrote about it. 

Oregano – Theophrastus, Aristotle, Hippocrates, Dioscorides, and Pliny revered oregano as a strong antiseptic for the respiratory system and for wounds, ulcers, and burns. They also believed it helped the digestion of food.

Parsley – The Ancient Egyptians and the Greeks used parsley and crowned victorious soldiers with wreaths of it. Pliny and Galen said that no sauce or salad should be without parsley.

Pepper – White and black pepper has been used in cooking and medicine for a long time. It was mentioned in old Sanskrit and Chinese texts in the tenth century BC. Pliny recorded that pepper was more expensive than gold. 

Rosemary – The Ancient Egyptians favored Rosemary, and traces of it have been found in first dynasty tombs. To Greeks and Romans, it was a sacred plant. Theophrastus and Dioscorides recommended it as a powerful remedy for stomach and liver problems.

Thyme – It has been used by the Sumerians as long ago as 3,500 BC. The Ancient Egyptians used the plants in embalming. The Romans cooked with thyme and used it medicinally. Pliny recommended it as a remedy for epilepsy.

How were oils used in the Bible?

Oils were used to sanctify and purify people and objects. They were also used as fragrances and gifts. People made the essential oils and sold them to make money in the marketplace, so they were also a commodity of trade and bought and sold.

What oils was Jesus anointed with?

• Spikenard oil (John 12:3)
• Myrrh (John 19:39-40)
• Aloes (Sandalwood) (John 19:39-40)

What were the three gifts given to Jesus?

1. Gold
2. Frankincense (essential oil)
3. Myrrh (essential oil)

What is the king of all the oils?

Frankincense – when in doubt, use Frankincense!

Fun Facts

• Myrrh is mentioned in the Bible 156 times.
• Cinnamon was often combined with myrrh. Solomon used the oils as a natural cologne, which makes sense because cinnamon is a sexual stimulant.
• The word incense is mentioned 68 times.

Is it okay for Christians to use essential oils?

Wicca practices often incorporate essential oils for various purposes, including ritual, spell work, and creating a specific atmosphere for magical practices. Some Christians think that because it is used in those practices, we, as believers, cannot use them.

This is inerrant thinking. It would be like saying, “Well, non-Christians have sex, therefore, I cannot have sex.”

Non-believers will use the same products that we use. If a Wiccan uses binder paper to write on, does that mean we cannot use binder paper?

It’s absurd, right?! As long as you are not practicing magic (which is sin) or doing anything that the Bible condemns, you’re free to use essential oils as you please. 

In fact, God has commanded some people in Scripture to use essential oils.

God commanded Moses to infuse oil with aromatic spices to make a sacred anointing oil for the priests in Exodus 30:22–38. God also commanded the priests to add scented oil to certain sacrifices to make them a food offering with a pleasing aroma to the Lord in Leviticus 2:1–2. 

Does that mean that WE are commanded to use essential oils? No. We can use them, but we do not have to. It’s our choice. 😊

What are the 12 essential oils of the Bible?

1. Cassia
2. Galbanum
3. Myrrh
4. Myrtle
5. Spikenard
6. Onycha
7. Sandalwood
8. Frankincense
9. Hyssop
10. Cedar
11. Cistus
12. Cypress

As with any herbal remedy, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare professional before using them, particularly if you have any underlying health conditions or are taking medications.