Biblical Roots of Healing Scents - Aromatherapy
- Alisha Hicks
- Oct 30
- 13 min read
"Take the following fine spices: 500 shekels of liquid myrrh, half as much of fragrant cinnamon, 250 shekels of fragrant calamus, 500 shekels of cassia—all according to the sanctuary shekel—and a hin of olive oil. Make these into a sacred anointing oil, a fragrant blend, the work of a perfumer." - Exodus 30:23-25
Long before aromatherapy became a modern wellness trend, God instructed His people to use aromatic plants for healing, worship, and everyday life. From the sacred anointing oil in the tabernacle to the frankincense and myrrh brought to baby Jesus, the Bible is rich with references to therapeutic aromatic substances—what we now call essential oils.
As Christians exploring natural health, aromatherapy offers a beautiful way to steward our wellbeing using gifts God embedded in creation. Let's discover how these fragrant plant essences connect to biblical tradition and can support our families' health today.
Aromatherapy in Scripture: God's Fragrant Provision
Sacred Oils and Incense in Worship
Throughout the Old Testament, God specifically commanded the use of aromatic substances in worship:
The Holy Anointing Oil (Exodus 30:22-33): God gave Moses a precise recipe containing myrrh, cinnamon, calamus (possibly sweet flag), cassia, and olive oil. This sacred oil was used to anoint priests, kings, and tabernacle furnishings. Each aromatic ingredient had both spiritual significance and therapeutic properties.
The Sacred Incense (Exodus 30:34-38): God prescribed a blend of fragrant spices—stacte, onycha, galbanum, and frankincense—to be burned in the tabernacle. The rising smoke symbolized prayers ascending to heaven, while the aromatics created an atmosphere conducive to worship and spiritual focus.
Why is this significant? God could have commanded any form of worship, but He specifically chose aromatic plants. This reveals that He values beauty, scent, and the gifts He placed in creation. The fragrances weren't mere decoration—they had purpose and power.
Healing and Anointing Throughout Scripture
Oil for Healing: "Is anyone among you sick? Let them call the elders of the church to pray over them and anoint them with oil in the name of the Lord" (James 5:14). While olive oil was the base, it was often infused with aromatic herbs and spices for medicinal purposes.
The Good Samaritan: When the Samaritan cared for the wounded man, he "bandaged his wounds, pouring on oil and wine" (Luke 10:34). Oil was the primary vehicle for delivering herbal medicine in biblical times.
Gifts for the King: The wise men brought frankincense and myrrh to Jesus—not random gifts, but precious therapeutic substances. Frankincense supports immune function and spiritual focus; myrrh has powerful antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. These were fitting gifts for the King of Kings.
Preparation for Burial: When Jesus died, "Nicodemus brought a mixture of myrrh and aloes, about seventy-five pounds" (John 19:39). These aromatic substances were used both for their preservative properties and their sacred significance.
Beauty and Joy Through Fragrance
Oils for Gladness: "You love righteousness and hate wickedness; therefore God, your God, has set you above your companions by anointing you with the oil of joy" (Psalm 45:7). Aromatic oils were associated with celebration, joy, and blessing.
The Bride's Preparation: In Esther 2:12, young women underwent twelve months of beauty treatments "with oil of myrrh and with perfumes and cosmetics." This wasn't vanity—it was recognizing that God created pleasant scents for our enjoyment and benefit.
Fragrant Offerings: Paul describes generosity as "a fragrant offering, an acceptable sacrifice, pleasing to God" (Philippians 4:18). Throughout Scripture, pleasing fragrances symbolize what is good and acceptable to God.
What Is Aromatherapy?
Aromatherapy is the therapeutic use of aromatic plant compounds—essential oils—for physical, emotional, and spiritual wellbeing. Essential oils are highly concentrated extracts from plants' flowers, leaves, bark, roots, or resins.
When you smell lavender and feel calm, or inhale peppermint and feel more alert, you're experiencing aromatherapy. These aren't just pleasant scents—they're bioactive compounds that interact with your body through:
The Olfactory System: Scent molecules travel through your nose to the limbic system (the emotional center of your brain), affecting mood, memory, and stress response almost instantly.
Absorption: When applied topically (diluted in carrier oil), essential oils can be absorbed through the skin into the bloodstream.
Inhalation: Volatile compounds in essential oils can enter your respiratory system and bloodstream when inhaled.
Biblical Principles Supporting Aromatherapy
1. God Created Plants for Healing
"Then God said, 'I give you every seed-bearing plant on the face of the whole earth and every tree that has fruit with seed in it. They will be yours for food'" (Genesis 1:29).
Later, in Ezekiel's vision of the restored temple, he sees: "Fruit trees of all kinds will grow on both banks of the river. Their leaves will not wither, nor will their fruit fail. Every month they will bear fruit, because the water from the sanctuary flows to them. Their fruit will serve for food and their leaves for healing" (Ezekiel 47:12).
God specifically designed plants with healing properties. Essential oils are simply concentrated forms of those God-given healing compounds.
2. Our Bodies Are Temples
"Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies" (1 Corinthians 6:19-20).
Using pure, natural aromatherapy to support health honors the temple God gave us. Unlike synthetic fragrances filled with chemicals, true essential oils work with our bodies' natural systems.
3. God Values Beauty and Pleasure
God didn't create a bland, odorless world. He made roses, jasmine, pine forests, and orange blossoms—filling creation with delightful fragrances. The enjoyment we get from pleasant scents is part of His good design.
"He has made everything beautiful in its time" (Ecclesiastes 3:11). Aromatherapy allows us to enjoy and benefit from the beauty God placed in creation.
4. Stewardship of Creation
Using essential oils connects us to God's creation in meaningful ways. When we diffuse frankincense, we're using the same resin that was burned in the temple. When we apply lavender, we're benefiting from the plant God designed with calming properties.
This is stewardship—using creation's gifts wisely and gratefully, recognizing God as the source.
Practical Aromatherapy for Christian Families
Essential Oils for Common Needs
For Calm and Peace:
Lavender: The most versatile oil, promotes relaxation and sleep
Frankincense: Deepens breathing, supports meditation and prayer
Cedarwood: Grounding and calming, excellent for children
Roman Chamomile: Gentle and soothing for anxiety and restlessness
Application: Diffuse during prayer or bedtime, apply diluted to wrists or feet, add to bath
For Energy and Focus:
Peppermint: Increases alertness and concentration
Lemon: Uplifting and clarifying
Rosemary: Enhances memory and mental clarity
Basil: Reduces mental fatigue
Application: Diffuse during homeschool or work, inhale directly from bottle, apply to temples (diluted)
For Immune Support:
Tea Tree: Powerful antimicrobial properties
Eucalyptus: Supports respiratory health
Oregano: Strong immune booster (use with caution, very potent)
Thyme: Antibacterial and antiviral
Application: Diffuse during cold/flu season, apply diluted to chest and feet, add to cleaning products
For Emotional Wellness:
Bergamot: Uplifts mood, eases anxiety
Ylang Ylang: Promotes joy and reduces stress
Geranium: Balances emotions
Clary Sage: Supports hormonal balance and emotional stability
Application: Wear as natural perfume (diluted), diffuse throughout the day, add to bath
For Physical Discomfort:
Peppermint: Headaches and muscle pain
Ginger: Digestive support and nausea
Copaiba: Natural anti-inflammatory
Helichrysum: Bruising and skin healing
Application: Apply topically (always diluted), add to compress, massage into affected area
Creating a Christian Aromatherapy Practice
Morning Routine: Start your day by diffusing uplifting oils like lemon or grapefruit during morning devotions. The fresh, bright scents can help you feel alert and ready to embrace the day God has given you.
Prayer and Meditation: Diffuse frankincense, myrrh, or sandalwood during prayer time. These ancient oils, used in biblical worship, can help create a sacred atmosphere and deepen your focus. As the fragrance rises, let it remind you of prayers ascending to God.
Family Wellness: Keep a "first aid" kit of essential oils for common family needs: lavender for minor burns and sleep, tea tree for cuts, peppermint for headaches, and digestive upset. Teach children that God provided these natural remedies.
Bedtime Blessing: Create a calming bedtime routine with lavender or cedarwood. As you diffuse or apply oils, pray blessings over your children. The consistent scent becomes associated with safety, peace, and God's protection.
Cleaning and Home Care: Make natural cleaning products with lemon, tea tree, and eucalyptus oils. Your home will smell fresh without toxic synthetic fragrances, honoring your body-temples and God's creation.
Worship Enhancement: Consider using biblical oils during worship—frankincense, myrrh, hyssop, spikenard, or cypress. Let their fragrances connect you to thousands of years of biblical worship tradition.
Safety Guidelines
Using aromatherapy safely is part of wise stewardship:
Always Dilute: Most essential oils should be diluted in a carrier oil (coconut, jojoba, almond) before skin application. Typical dilution is 1-2% for children, 2-3% for adults.
Quality Matters: Choose pure, therapeutic-grade essential oils from reputable companies. Avoid synthetic fragrances or adulterated oils.
Pregnancy and Children: Use extra caution with pregnant women and young children. Some oils are not appropriate. Research carefully or consult a certified aromatherapist.
Patch Test: Always test a new oil on a small skin area first to check for sensitivity.
Internal Use Caution: While some oils can be taken internally, this requires specific knowledge and high-quality oils. When in doubt, use topically or aromatically.
Pets: Some essential oils are toxic to pets, especially cats. Research carefully before diffusing around animals.
Addressing Spiritual Concerns
Is Aromatherapy New Age?
Some Christians worry that aromatherapy is a "New Age" practice. Let's think this through:
Historical Reality: Aromatherapy's roots are biblical and ancient—far predating the New Age movement. God commanded the use of aromatic oils thousands of years before the 1960s New Age movement emerged.
The Practice vs. The Philosophy: Using essential oils for health is simply utilizing God's creation. What matters is the heart and worldview behind it. You can use lavender for sleep without embracing New Age spirituality, just as you can eat nutritious food without embracing Eastern mysticism.
Redeeming What's Good: "Test everything; hold fast what is good" (1 Thessalonians 5:21). Just because some people attach non-Christian beliefs to essential oils doesn't mean the oils themselves are problematic. We redeem and use God's gifts according to biblical truth.
Energy, Vibrations, and Chakras
Some aromatherapy sources talk about "energy healing," "vibrations," or "balancing chakras." As Christians, we should avoid these spiritual frameworks.
What We Can Embrace:
Essential oils have chemical constituents that affect our bodies
Scents influence the limbic system and affect mood and stress
God created plants with therapeutic properties
Our bodies, minds, and spirits are interconnected (biblical holism)
What We Should Avoid:
Believing essential oils manipulate spiritual "energy fields"
Using oils in conjunction with practices like Reiki or crystal healing
Attributing healing power to the oils themselves rather than to God
Practices that invoke spirits or non-Christian meditation techniques
The Key: Focus on the physical and emotional benefits of aromatherapy while maintaining that God is the ultimate healer and source of all wellness.
Can We Use Oils Without Embracing Wrong Beliefs?
Absolutely! Consider these analogies:
Yoga: Many Christians practice stretching exercises similar to yoga poses without embracing Hindu beliefs. The stretches have physical benefits regardless of their origin.
Acupuncture: Some Christians use acupuncture for pain relief without accepting the spiritual philosophy of "qi" or "energy meridians."
Days of the Week: We name days after pagan gods (Thursday = Thor's day) but don't worship those gods.
Similarly, we can use essential oils for their God-given therapeutic properties without embracing any non-Christian spiritual framework some might attach to them.
Biblical Oils: Connecting to Scripture
Using oils mentioned in the Bible can create meaningful connections to Scripture:
Frankincense (Boswellia):
Biblical significance: Gift to Jesus, used in temple incense
Benefits: Supports immune function, deepens breathing, promotes meditation
Use: Diffuse during prayer or apply to wrists
Myrrh (Commiphora myrrha):
Biblical significance: Gift to Jesus, used for burial, part of anointing oil
Benefits: Antimicrobial, supports skin health, emotionally grounding
Use: Apply to skin (diluted) or diffuse for contemplative moments
Cedarwood (Cedrus):
Biblical significance: Used in temple construction, purification rituals
Benefits: Calming, promotes sleep, supports respiratory health
Use: Diffuse at bedtime or apply to children's feet for sleep
Hyssop (Hyssopus officinalis):
Biblical significance: Used for cleansing and purification (Psalm 51:7)
Benefits: Respiratory support, cleansing properties
Use: Steam inhalation or diffuse during illness
Spikenard (Nardostachys jatamansi):
Biblical significance: Mary anointed Jesus's feet with expensive nard (John 12:3)
Benefits: Deeply relaxing, supports emotional healing
Use: Apply to feet in worship or contemplation
Cassia/Cinnamon (Cinnamomum):
Biblical significance: Part of holy anointing oil
Benefits: Antimicrobial, warming, uplifting
Use: Diffuse for joy and warmth, supports immune health
Cypress (Cupressus):
Biblical significance: Associated with death and mourning
Benefits: Supports respiratory health, emotionally grounding in grief
Use: Diffuse during seasons of loss or transition
Creating Blends for Spiritual Moments
Anointing Oil Blend (Inspired by Exodus 30)
While we shouldn't replicate the exact sacred formula, we can create blends inspired by it:
10 drops Myrrh
10 drops Cassia or Cinnamon Bark
5 drops Cedarwood (substitute for calamus)
2 oz carrier oil (olive, jojoba, or fractionated coconut)
Use this blend to anoint yourself or family members during prayer, dedication ceremonies, or moments of blessing.
Prayer and Meditation Blend
5 drops Frankincense
3 drops Sandalwood
2 drops Cedarwood
Diffuse during quiet time with God to create a sacred, focused atmosphere.
Joy and Praise Blend
4 drops Bergamot
3 drops Grapefruit
2 drops Ylang Ylang
1 drop Cinnamon
Diffuse during worship or celebration to uplift spirits.
Peace and Rest Blend
4 drops Lavender
3 drops Roman Chamomile
2 drops Cedarwood
Diffuse before bed or during stressful times for God's peace.
Teaching Children About God's Aromatic Gifts
Aromatherapy offers wonderful teaching opportunities:
Creation Study: Let children smell different oils and discuss how God created each plant with unique properties and fragrances. Read Genesis 1-2 together and celebrate God's creative diversity.
Bible Stories: When reading stories that mention aromatic substances, let children smell the corresponding oils. When you read about the wise men, open frankincense and myrrh. During Easter, discuss the burial spices.
Science Lessons: Explore how essential oils are made (distillation, cold-pressing). Discuss plant parts, chemistry, and God's design.
Gratitude Practice: Encourage children to thank God for specific oils and their benefits. "Thank you, God, for creating lavender to help me feel calm."
Stewardship: Teach that these precious oils come from God's creation and should be used carefully and gratefully, never wasted.
Aromatherapy and Prayer
Many Christians find that certain scents enhance their prayer life:
Creating Sacred Space: Just as incense rose in the tabernacle, diffusing oils during prayer can help create an atmosphere set apart for God. The scent signals to your mind and body that this is sacred time.
Sensory Engagement: We're embodied souls. Engaging our sense of smell during prayer helps us be fully present rather than distracted.
Memory and Ritual: Using the same oil blend consistently during prayer time creates a powerful association. Eventually, just smelling that blend helps you shift into a prayerful mindset.
Breath Prayers: Certain oils (frankincense, cypress, cedarwood) naturally deepen breathing. As you inhale deeply, you're physically and spiritually drawing in God's presence. As you exhale, you're releasing anxiety and control.
Historical Connection: Using biblical oils connects you to thousands of years of believers who used these same substances in worship. You're participating in an ancient tradition.
A Christian Perspective on Healing
When aromatherapy brings relief or healing, remember:
God Is the Ultimate Healer: Essential oils are tools, not magic. Any healing that comes is ultimately from God, who designed both our bodies and the plants.
Give God Glory: When lavender helps your child sleep or peppermint relieves your headache, thank God for creating plants with these properties.
Stewardship, Not Idolatry: Enjoy and use aromatherapy, but don't make it an idol. Hold it with open hands, always subordinate to trusting God.
Wisdom in Application: Use aromatherapy alongside other wise practices—good nutrition, rest, medical care when needed, and prayer.
Ministry Opportunity: Your knowledge of aromatherapy can be a way to serve others, share God's creation gifts, and open doors for spiritual conversations.
Starting Your Aromatherapy Journey
Begin Simply: Start with a basic kit of versatile oils:
Lavender (calming, skin care, sleep)
Peppermint (headaches, energy, digestion)
Lemon (cleaning, mood, immune support)
Tea Tree (antimicrobial, skin issues)
Frankincense (immune support, prayer, skin)
Invest in Quality: Choose pure, high-quality essential oils from reputable companies. Your health is worth it.
Get a Diffuser: An ultrasonic diffuser is an easy way to enjoy aromatherapy benefits throughout your home.
Educate Yourself: Read books, take courses, or work with a certified aromatherapist to learn safe, effective usage.
Start Traditions: Create family rituals around aromatherapy—bedtime routines, prayer time blends, seasonal favorites.
Share With Others: As you experience benefits, share with other Christians. Help them see these as gifts from God, not New Age mysticism.
A Prayer of Gratitude for Aromatic Blessings
Creator God, thank You for filling Your creation with such beautiful diversity and purpose. Thank You for designing plants with healing properties and delightful fragrances.
Thank You for the biblical tradition of using aromatic oils in worship, healing, and daily life. Thank You that You value beauty, pleasure, and the goodness of scent.
I'm grateful for frankincense and myrrh that came to Jesus, for the sacred oils used in Your tabernacle, for the psalmist's oil of joy.
Help me use these gifts with wisdom and gratitude. May the fragrances I enjoy remind me of Your goodness and creativity. May they support my family's health and wellbeing.
When I diffuse oils during prayer, may my prayers rise to You like incense. When I anoint my children with calming oils, may they experience Your peace. When aromatherapy brings healing, may I remember that all healing comes from You.
Keep me from making these gifts into idols, and protect me from spiritual practices that aren't from You. Help me embrace what is good while testing everything against Your truth.
Thank You for creating a world where roses smell like roses, where lavender calms, where peppermint invigorates. What a delightful, generous, creative God You are!
In Jesus' name, Amen.
Conclusion: Fragrant Offerings to God
Aromatherapy isn't just about feeling better—though that's a wonderful benefit. It's about connecting to God's creation in meaningful ways, honoring the bodies He's given us, and enjoying the beauty and diversity He built into the world.
When you diffuse frankincense during prayer, you're participating in a tradition thousands of years old. When you apply lavender to help your child sleep peacefully, you're using a gift God wove into creation. When you clean your home with lemon and tea tree oils, you're stewarding both your environment and your health.
The same God who commanded specific aromatic oils for His tabernacle, who accepted the frankincense and myrrh brought to His Son, who created plants with healing leaves—that God invites you to enjoy and benefit from these gifts.
"The earth is the Lord's, and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it" (Psalm 24:1).
May your aromatherapy practice be an act of worship, a way of caring for God's temple (your body), and a source of blessing for your family. May every pleasant fragrance remind you of the goodness of your creative God.
"For we are to God the pleasing aroma of Christ among those who are being saved and those who are perishing" (2 Corinthians 2:15).
Let your life be a fragrant offering, supported by the gifts God graciously provides through His creation.
May your home be filled with the sweet fragrances God created, your family blessed with the healing properties He wove into plants, and your heart grateful for a God who cares even about how the world smells.
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