Balm of Gilead and Myrrh

Healing Oils
By Jim Lynn

The balm of Gilead was a healing oil distilled from a
particular specie of tree known scientifically as
Commiphora opobalsamum. Though this particular
specie no longer exists, many other plant species do
exist which, when distilled, offer amazing therapeutic,
healing qualities.

For instance, the oil of myrrh (Commiphora myrrha),
which was harvested, produced, and traded in Genesis,
is known today for its anti-infectious, antiviral, antiparasitic,
hormone-like, anti-inflammatory qualities. Myrrh oil is
soothing to the skin, antihyperthyroid, and supports the
immune system.4 It may also prove to be anti-tumoral.
The fragrance of myrrh is heavenly. In fact, David described
the robes of God as smelling of myrrh (Psalms 45:8).

Myrrh contains high amounts of sesquiterpenes, compounds
that have direct effects on the hypothalamus, pituitary, and
amygdala, the seat of our emotions. Those who have
experienced myrrh know of its great calming effect. Because
it directly effects emotion, myrrh promotes spiritual awareness
and is uplifting. Myrrh may also help asthma, athlete’s foot,
candida, coughs, eczema, digestion, fungal infection, gingivitis,
gum infections, hemorrhoids, mouth ulcers, ringworm, sore
throats, skin conditions, wounds, and wrinkles.5 No wonder
myrrh is considered precious throughout Scripture. You may
recall it was myrrh, frankincense and gold that was presented
to the Christ child by the magi. (Matthew 2:11).

It may be difficult for us today to wonder how a plant oil could
be considered more valuable than gold. But this will give you
some idea of how revered precious healing oils were in ancient
times. The Pharaohs of ancient Egypt routinely exchanged
healing oils with the kings of India for slaves, gold, and other
precious goods. When King Tutankhamun’s tomb was opened
in 1922, three hundred and fifty liters of oil were discovered in
alabaster jars. Again, this indicates how revered these precious
oils were held at one time in human history.

But if something as effective as a plant oil was in such demand
in ancient time, it only underscores, all the more, man’s continual
need for healing today. For the history of suffering is the history
of Satan inflicting injuries and disease on God’s children. This is
the reason why God in His wisdom set a healing process in
motion at the time of creation. He placed medicine and food that
man would need into the plant kingdom so each generation could
have access to the healing and nutrition found there.

Excerpt from The Miracle of Healing in Your Church Today