Healing Plants of the Bible: 16 Biblical Herbs and Their Traditional Uses

Have you ever wondered about the plants mentioned in Scripture and whether they were used for healing?

When most people think about the plants in the Bible, they picture frankincense, myrrh, or perhaps the mustard seed. But Scripture mentions a fascinating collection of herbs, spices, trees, and healing plants that were woven into daily life, worship, and even some of the Bible's most memorable stories. Let's take a closer look at 16 biblical plants, what they meant in Scripture, and the traditional ways they've been used throughout history.

Before we dive in, it's important to note that healing in the Bible is much broader than simply using plants. Throughout Scripture, we see four primary ways healing occurs:

• Through God directly
• Through Jesus' ministry
• Through prayer
• Through the use of means

The use of means includes practical care, such as treating wounds, setting broken bones, and in some cases using plants and herbs.

This article explores the plants specifically mentioned in Scripture, their biblical significance, and their traditional historical uses. Be sure to scroll to the bottom for my FREE herbal energetics chart!

Note: This information is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice.

Aloe in the Bible

Scripture Reference: Song of Solomon 4:14

Aloe is listed among the chief spices in Song of Solomon, indicating its value and desirability in biblical times.

Traditional Uses of Aloe

Historically, aloe has been used for:

• Burn treatment
• Wound support
• Skin moisturizing
• Soothing irritated skin

Today, aloe vera gel remains one of the most commonly used natural remedies for burns and minor skin irritations.

Anise in the Bible

Scripture Reference: Matthew 23:23

Jesus rebuked the Pharisees for carefully tithing even their smallest garden herbs while neglecting justice, mercy, and faithfulness.

This passage reminds us how valuable herbs were in biblical culture. They were considered important enough to be included in tithing practices.

Traditional Uses of Anise

Historically, anise was used to:

• Ease gas and bloating
• Support digestion
• Help calm colic in infants
• Support respiratory health

Calamus in the Bible

Scripture Reference: Song of Solomon 4:14

Calamus is another plant listed among the chief spices of Scripture.

Traditional Uses of Calamus

Traditionally, calamus was used for:

• Digestive complaints
• Stomach discomfort
• Mental clarity

Modern safety concerns have limited its use today, particularly for internal applications.

Cinnamon in the Bible

Scripture Reference: Song of Solomon 4:14

Cinnamon was one of the most treasured spices of the ancient world.

Traditional Uses of Cinnamon

Historically cinnamon has been used to:

• Support digestion
• Encourage healthy circulation
• Support healthy blood sugar levels
• Provide anti-inflammatory support

Today, cinnamon remains one of the most widely used culinary and medicinal spices.

Fig in the Bible

Scripture Reference: Isaiah 38:21

Figs provide one of the clearest examples of a medicinal remedy recorded in Scripture.

When King Hezekiah became ill, a poultice of figs was applied to his boil, and he recovered.

Traditional Uses of Figs

Historically figs were used for:

• Drawing out boils
• Poultices for skin issues
• Wound support
• Nutritional support

While God's mercy and healing are central to Hezekiah's story, the fig poultice is one of the few specific herbal remedies mentioned in the Bible.

Frankincense in the Bible

Scripture References: Song of Solomon 4:14; Matthew 2:11

Frankincense is perhaps best known as one of the gifts brought to Jesus by the Magi.

Throughout Scripture it is associated with worship, prayer, and offerings.

Traditional Uses of Frankincense

Historically frankincense has been used for:

• Respiratory support
• Joint support
• Skin care
• Wound care
• Immune support

Today, many people use frankincense essential oil in homemade salves, balms, and skincare preparations.

Hyssop in the Bible

Scripture Reference: Exodus 12:22

Hyssop played a significant role in the first Passover. It was used to apply the blood of the lamb to the Israelites' doorposts.

Because of this, hyssop became a powerful biblical symbol of cleansing and purification.

Traditional Uses of Hyssop

Historically hyssop has been used for:

• Respiratory infections
• Congestion
• Coughs
• Digestive complaints

Juniper in the Bible

Scripture Reference: Psalm 120:4

Juniper, sometimes translated as broom tree, appears in Scripture as fuel and charcoal.

Traditional Uses of Juniper

Juniper berries were traditionally used for:

• Urinary tract support
• Digestive stimulation
• Joint support
• Antimicrobial support

Mallow in the Bible

Scripture Reference: Job 30:4

Mallow appears in a passage describing hardship and famine, where it was gathered for food.

Traditional Uses of Mallow

Mallow is rich in mucilage and has traditionally been used to:

• Soothe sore throats
• Calm irritated digestion
• Ease dry coughs
• Support inflamed tissues

Its soothing properties are similar to marshmallow root.

Mustard in the Bible

Scripture Reference: Matthew 13:31

Jesus compared the Kingdom of Heaven to a mustard seed, illustrating how something small can grow into something great.

Traditional Uses of Mustard

Historically mustard was used to:

• Stimulate circulation
• Support digestion
• Ease chest congestion
• Support respiratory health

Mustard plasters were commonly used by previous generations as a home remedy.

Myrrh in the Bible

Scripture References: Song of Solomon 4:14; Matthew 2:11

Myrrh is another precious gift associated with Jesus and worship.

Traditional Uses of Myrrh

Historically myrrh has been used for:

• Oral health support
• Gum care
• Wound support
• Skin care
• Anti-inflammatory support

Myrtle in the Bible

Scripture Reference: Isaiah 55:13

Myrtle appears as a symbol of restoration and blessing.

Traditional Uses of Myrtle

Historically myrtle has been used for:

• Respiratory support
• Sinus support
• Urinary tract support
• Antimicrobial support

Rue in the Bible

Scripture Reference: Luke 11:42

Rue is mentioned when Jesus rebukes the Pharisees for focusing on external observance while neglecting justice and the love of God.

Traditional Uses of Rue

Historically rue was used for:

• Digestive complaints
• Menstrual support
• Parasite support

Important: Rue is a potent herb and should be approached with caution.

Saffron in the Bible

Scripture Reference: Song of Solomon 4:14

Saffron was one of the most precious and expensive spices in biblical times, and it remains so today.

Traditional Uses of Saffron

Historically saffron was used for:

• Mood support
• Antioxidant support
• Menstrual comfort
• Eye health support

Spikenard (Nard) in the Bible

Scripture References: Song of Solomon 4:14; John 12

Spikenard is remembered as the costly perfume Mary used to anoint Jesus.

Traditional Uses of Spikenard

Historically spikenard was used for:

• Stress support
• Calming properties
• Wound support
• Anti-inflammatory support

Wormwood in the Bible

Scripture References: Deuteronomy 29:18; Revelation

Wormwood often symbolizes bitterness and judgment throughout Scripture.

Traditional Uses of Wormwood

Historically, wormwood was used for:

• Digestive stimulation
• Parasite support
• Gallbladder support

Because it contains thujone, excessive use can be harmful.

Common Themes Among Biblical Plants

One of the most fascinating observations is that many biblical plants fall into the same categories modern herbalists still use today.

Digestive Support

• Anise
• Calamus
• Mustard
• Rue
• Wormwood

Respiratory Support

• Hyssop
• Myrtle
• Frankincense

Wound and Skin Care

• Aloe
• Fig
• Myrrh
• Frankincense

Anti-Inflammatory Support

• Myrrh
• Frankincense
• Saffron
• Juniper

Cleansing and Purification

• Hyssop
• Myrtle
• Wormwood

Worship and Temple Use

• Frankincense
• Myrrh
• Cinnamon
• Spikenard

Bringing Traditional Herbs Into Modern Life

One of the things I find fascinating about studying the plants of the Bible is how many of them fall into the same categories that herbalists still use today. While we may not reach for the exact same plants that were common in biblical times, many families are still using herbs to support everyday wellness, digestion, respiratory health, and seasonal immune support.

If you're interested in learning more about herbs but aren't quite ready to formulate your own tinctures, teas, or herbal remedies, Earthley offers a variety of herbal products made with thoughtfully selected ingredients designed to support your family's wellness naturally.

One product I've been especially interested in is their Vitality Oil, which combines black seed oil, hemp seed oil, anise seed, and rosemary to support healthy detox pathways, immune function, and overall vitality.

You can learn more about Earthley's herbal products and save 10% on your order with coupon code PIONEER10 (excluding sale items).

As always, be sure to research herbs carefully and work with a qualified healthcare practitioner when needed, especially if you're pregnant, nursing, taking medications, or managing a health condition.

The Tree Leaves for the Healing of the Nations

One final reference to healing plants appears in Revelation.

Scripture describes a future time when the leaves of trees will be used for the healing of the nations. While the specific trees are not named, this passage has inspired many discussions about the role plants play in God's provision and restoration.

Whether viewed symbolically, prophetically, or both, it serves as a reminder that God's creation contains purpose, beauty, and provision.