Myrrh is the aromatic gum or resin that exudes from the stems and branches of more than 150 species in the Commiphora genus of the Burseraceae family (e.g., Commiphora myrrha, Commiphora molmol, Commiphora gileadensis). These species, rare today, are distributed...
The plant has been used as medicine across all herbal medicinal systems. Traditionally, the species is used for stomach cramps, flatulence, respiratory ailments, blood disorders, heart diseases, and as an aphrodisiac. It is a folk remedy for headaches and colds and...
Nardostachys jatamansi is the botanical name of nard mentioned in the Bible. It is a flowering herb found in the Himalayan region at altitudes of 3000–5000 meters. The plant grows to a height of one meter and has bell-shaped pink flowers. The collection and harvesting...
As with other Biblical plants, the botanical source of hyssop is shrouded in debate. The Bible mentions hyssop many times (Leviticus 14:1–7). A brush made of hyssop branches was used to mark the houses of the Jews with lamb’s blood to protect them from the impending...
Phoenix dactylifera, the date palm, or Tamar, is a monocot plant from the Arecaceae family. It is a high-energy crop, and one of the most nutritious fruits in the tropics and subtropics. It is rich in sugars, palmitic and organic acids, linoleic, lauric, myristic, and...
Every region has its set of sacred plants. Ancient societies lived in harmony with nature. Plants were a source of food, medicine, and shelter. Religious and other texts contain references to ecology, trees, and animals, as the worship of gods was associated with...