Recipe for Healing Thieves Oil: Instructions for Preparation and Daily Usage Reasons

While it is common knowledge that Thieves oil is supplied by various companies, few are aware of its origins in the 15th century. The initial recipe for Thieves oil was concocted by French "thieves" amidst the Black Plague. Their herbal concoction, which was antiseptic, antibacterial, and antimicrobial, purportedly shielded them from illness as they pilfered from those stricken by the plague.

The Tale of Thieves

Gary Young, an essential oils researcher since the early 1990s, discovered 17 distinct narratives of the "Tale of Thieves," each comprising varying quantities of different oils. This discovery motivated Gary to investigate and formulate the optimal Thieves Oil blend, now widely recognized as Young Living Thieves Essential Oil.

Gary's exploration brought him to the historical account of the spice traders and merchants, known as the "Thieves," after whom the blend is named. These "Thieves" were traders of cinnamon and clove buds from India to Europe. However, when the Black Plague halted international shipping and trade, they were compelled to find alternative means of sustenance.

In dire need, the Thieves resolved to plunder the deceased, those ravaged by plague, retrieving and selling any items they found—jewelry, clothing, footwear, cookware. They traded everything within their grasp for food and currency. Nevertheless, the cadavers presented a hazard to the Thieves, as contagion lingered. But with their understanding of the medicinal virtues of spices, along with vinegars and oils, they were confident in their immunity.

When the King learned of the Thieves' continued health, he demanded an explanation. Eventually, four Thieves were apprehended and presented to the King. Faced with a grim ultimatum—divulge their secret or face execution by fire—they chose to reveal their concoction.

Consequently, their knowledge of the oil blend spread throughout the town, and the Thieves' oil recipe gained renown in many households. Some recipes have endured, allowing you to craft your own Thieves oil blend at home.

Understanding the Plant Origins of Thieves Oil

Before delving into the recipe for Thieves oil, let's examine each component to fully value the oil's significance.

Clove: Derived from the evergreen tree Syzygium aromaticum or Eugenia caryophyllata, clove buds are laden with up to 20 percent essential oil. Their intense aroma is chiefly due to a major active chemical constituent known as eugenol.

Rosemary: Rosemary is a widely cherished herb originating from a diminutive evergreen shrub belonging to the mint family. Indigenous to the Mediterranean region, it boasts potent anti-inflammatory attributes.

Eucalyptus: Native to Australia, Tasmania, and adjacent isles, eucalyptus trees are the favored flora of koala bears, encompassing numerous species. Eucalyptus oil, commonly utilized in remedies for the common cold, is extracted from the tree's leaves.

Cinnamon: Both cinnamon oil and the dried spice are derived from the bark of the authentic cinnamon tree (Cinnamomum zeylanicum). Essential oils sourced from the tree's leaves, bark, and roots vary significantly; however, Thieves oil predominantly employs oil from the cinnamon leaf. Cinnamaldehyde is the principal active compound in cinnamon bark essential oil.

Lemon: Lemons are produced by a diminutive tree within the Rutaceae family. Lemon essential oil is obtained through cold pressing the lemon fruit's peel, which is abundant in various phytonutrients and advantageous compounds.

Thieves Oil Recipe: 

A concoction renowned for its use in wellness practices, Thieves oil is a blend of several essential oils including rosemary, eucalyptus, cinnamon, and lemon.

Ingredients:

– 80 drops of clove essential oil

– 70 drops of lemon essential oil

– 40 drops of cinnamon essential oil

– 30 drops of eucalyptus essential oil

– 20 drops of rosemary essential oil

Method:

Combine all the aforementioned essential oils into a dark-colored 15 milliliter (0.5 fluid ounce) glass bottle. Ensure it is stored in a cool, dry place, shielded from heat and light.

Benefits and Uses of Thieves Oil:

This recipe for thieves oil can be utilized not only for certain health conditions but also as a non-toxic cleaner within the household. Explore the benefits and uses outlined below!

1. Alleviates Aches and Pains

This recipe for Thieves oil is rich in anti-inflammatory agents that help alleviate muscle and joint discomfort. Studies have shown that rosemary and eucalyptus oils can reduce symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis, as well as general muscle and joint soreness.

To apply Thieves oil topically for pain relief, it should be diluted with a carrier oil such as jojoba, almond, or grapeseed oil. The standard dilution ratio is one drop of essential oil to four drops of carrier oil.

2. Thieves oil can provide support for the immune system."

'Thieves oil was historically believed to protect individuals from the Black Plague, offering considerable immune support. Essential oils such as clove and rosemary are recognized for their antibacterial and antifungal properties. Research has indicated that they possess antimicrobial effects against harmful bacteria like Staphylococcus epidermidis, Escherichia coli, and Candida albicans.

Cinnamon essential oil is also known for its antibacterial qualities, which may reduce oxidative stress and the formation of free radicals in the body – hence, it's speculated that Thieves might have used these herbs as a preventative measure against the Black Plague.

For topical use, Thieves oil can be diluted in a carrier oil (such as jojoba, almond, or grapeseed oil). Applying the mixture to the feet, lower back, neck, and behind the ears may provide daily immune support. Additionally, diffusing Thieves oil could allow the molecules of the essential oil to enter the bloodstream after inhalation into the lungs.'

3. Household Uses

Due to its antibacterial properties, Thieves oil serves as an excellent, versatile cleaner for the home. This oil blend's antibacterial capabilities make it ideal for disinfecting your home without resorting to toxic conventional cleaners. It not only disinfects but also leaves your home smelling wonderful.

When combined with natural cleaning agents such as white vinegar or hydrogen peroxide, Thieves oil is all you need to keep your home free from harmful bacteria—while preserving the beneficial ones. The lemon oil in the Thieves blend is particularly effective at making surfaces look bright and clean.

Additionally, you can incorporate Thieves oil into laundry loads, dishwasher cycles, or use it to clean your cell phone and other devices. For a fresh scent in your home, car, or office, place a few drops of Thieves oil on a cotton ball and insert it into air vents to combat unpleasant odors.

4. Respiratory System

If you're not already aware of the health benefits of eucalyptus, you'll be pleased to discover that this plant significantly boosts respiratory health. Eucalyptus is renowned for its effectiveness in treating respiratory tract disorders such as sinusitis, pharyngitis, and bronchitis.

Acting as a natural expectorant, eucalyptus aids in loosening phlegm and mucus from the lungs. It's commonly incorporated into over-the-counter cough and cold remedies due to this property.

Lemon oil, another agent that promotes respiratory health, stimulates the drainage of the lymphatic system, which can relieve respiratory and mucus congestion.

One of the most effective methods to introduce Thieves oil into your lungs is through diffusion using a diffuser. For optimal results, diffuse 15-20 drops of Thieves oil for 15 minutes, three to four times daily. Inhaling the oil not only strengthens your lungs and sinuses but also helps eliminate any persistent bacteria.

5. Oral Health

Thieves oil may enhance oral hygiene. Gargling with a concoction of coconut oil and a few drops of Thieves oil serves as an efficient mouthwash.

Known for its antibacterial properties, clove bud oil is effective in preventing gingivitis and eradicating the bacteria responsible for cavities.

Clove essential oil not only promotes oral health but also, according to a recent study in the Journal of International Society of Preventive and Community Dentistry, lemon, eucalyptus, and cinnamon oils contribute positively to dental care. Lemon oil combats candidiasis; eucalyptus oil offers antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory benefits; and cinnamon oil possesses anti-parasitic properties, along with antioxidant capabilities and free radical scavenging activities.

When considering internal use of Thieves oil, ensure that the oils are 100 percent pure, therapeutic grade, and organic. Incorporate one drop into a capsule or blend it into a smoothie or juice. Consult your physician before use if you are pregnant, nursing, have existing health issues, or are on medication. Thieves oil should never be applied undiluted directly in the mouth.