BOOK REVIEW 12 Essential Oils of the Bible

Twelve Essential Oils of the Bible: Ancient Healing Oils and Their Contemporary Uses

by Johannes Huber, Karin Opitz-Kreher

Earthdancer Books, 2023 (96 pages)

The use of fragrant oils has been used down through the most ancient of times.  It has also been an important part of the Bible.  How was it used?  How important were these fragrant oils?  Twelve Essential Oils of the Bible by Karin Opitz-Kreher and Johannes Huber offers an illuminating exploration of the twelve most significant essential oils mentioned in biblical scripture, blending ancient wisdom with modern holistic health applications. This richly illustrated, full-color guide serves as a comprehensive resource for readers interested in both the spiritual and medicinal heritage of these sacred oils, providing insights into their historical, botanical, and therapeutic significance.

The authors begin by grounding the reader firmly in the biblical context, identifying the twelve oils — cassia, galbanum, myrrh, myrtle, spikenard, onycha, sandalwood, frankincense, hyssop, cedar, cistus, and cypress — each introduced alongside key Bible verses that highlight their ancient uses. This approach not only reinforces the historical authenticity of the oils but also connects readers to the spiritual dimension of their application. The scriptural references are thoughtfully interwoven throughout, bringing to life how these oils served both ritualistic and everyday healing purposes in ancient Israel and early Christian practices.
What stands out is the seamless integration of scholarly research with practical knowledge. The book delves beyond the biblical anecdotes, offering botanical descriptions and chemical compositions of each oil — an important foundation that enhances credibility and bridges the gap between biblical lore and modern science. For example, frankincense and myrrh, often cited as symbolic gifts at Jesus’ birth, are explored for their antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, reinforcing their relevance in today’s natural health context.

Moreover, the authors trace folk medicine traditions, revealing how communities have historically employed these oils for physical healing and spiritual well-being. This exploration is enriched by the inclusion of recipes and daily practices based on ancient uses, inviting readers to engage actively with the oils.  I love this.  The recipes are simple yet thoughtful, encouraging a hands-on experience that is accessible even to those new to essential oils. This practical dimension is especially valuable in contemporary holistic health circles, where there is increasing interest in returning to natural and ancestral healing modalities.
The writing is clear and easily understood.  Opitz-Kreher and Huber succeed in presenting complex information in an engaging, readable manner without sacrificing depth. Their tone respects both the religious significance and the scientific potential of essential oils, appealing to a broad audience — from biblical scholars and aromatherapists to seekers of alternative medicine and spiritual healing. The book’s layout, with vivid photographs and intuitive sectioning, aids comprehension and invites readers to explore each oil in detail or glance through the entire spectrum.

However, the book does not shy away from the challenges that come with essential oil use. It responsibly discusses safety considerations and dosage recommendations, acknowledging the potent nature of concentrated oils. This nuanced treatment demonstrates the authors’ commitment to responsible aromatherapy, warning against misuse while emphasizing the oils’ powerful healing potential when applied with care.  This is often over-looked in books, and can be dangerous, so I'm glad they include these warnings.

One particularly compelling aspect is the way the book bridges ancient ritual and modern healing. The sacred role of these oils—as anointing agents, medicines, and symbols of divine presence—is juxtaposed with contemporary scientific findings that validate many of their therapeutic claims. For instance, hyssop, once used for ceremonial purification, is described with evidence of its antimicrobial activity, suggesting that ancient peoples might have intuited medicinal virtues centuries before current research.
Though the book primarily focuses on twelve Bible oils, it acknowledges the broader tradition wherein the Bible references over thirty-three essential oils and aromatic plants. This contextualization encourages readers to appreciate the twelve oils as emblematic representatives of a rich botanical heritage. It also opens avenues for further study and exploration.

It is a thoughtfully researched, beautifully presented book, and a practically useful guide that successfully revitalizes the ancient wisdom of biblical essential oils for the modern reader. It invites a respectful and informed approach to these sacred plants—celebrating their spiritual symbolism while illuminating their potential for healing and well-being. Whether approached from a theological, historical, or holistic health perspective, readers will find in this work a rare synthesis of knowledge, faith, and practice.

Johannes Huber is an alternative practitioner whose interest in essential oils goes back to his youth. He has been working with them in aromatherapy and in the care of the sick and elderly for more than ten years. The focus of his work also includes darkfield microscopy diagnosis. Karin Opitz-Kreher runs her own wellness practice specializing in stress reduction and harmonization. Since 2013 she also incorporates traditional knowledge of essential oils in her practice and teaches about them in workshops. She lives in Germany.