Thieves
Steal back your health!
History of the Thieves blend…
During the Black Plague of the 17th century, a small band of thieves were caught in the act and brought before the King who forced them to divulge a most curious secret. The thieves had been entering the homes of plague victims and stripping the dead bodies of money, jewelry and anything else of value that could be found. Although the plague was highly contagious, not one of this morbid band of thieves ever contracted the dreaded plague, even though their thefts had put them in constant daily contact the dead bodies of plague victims. The King, eager to protect himself and the Royal Family, demanded to know how the thieves had avoided contracting the plague. Soon enough the truth came out. The thieves were all members of the same family — a family from a long lineage of apothecaries. Because of their intimate knowledge of the healing arts, passed down from generation to generation, they were familiar with a combination of specific plant oils that when rubbed over the human body and inhaled, would protect the body from contracting this most feared and deadly disease. The King forced the thieves to divulge the specific plant oils used and the formula for extracting them from the plants. With that vital information in hand, he was thereby able to protect himself and his family from the deadly plague and the thieves were given a lighter sentence for their crimes.
The recipe for the “thieves oils” can still be found in the Royal English Archives to this day. What’s more, this story is not at all that unusual. In fact, it is widely known that many perfumers and tanners in 17th century England were also able to escape the Black Plague due to the fact that the powerful sweet-smelling plant oils used in the making of various perfumes and in the scenting of leather goods exhibit phenomenal antimicrobial properties.
Gary Young, founder of Young Living Essential Oils went on a quest to find the correct recipe as there are many versions in circulation. Many of them could be effective, however, with the quality and potency of the Young Living oils and extensive research put into each ingredient as well as the effect of their combination makes this recipe quite extraordinary!
Personal Uses
Here are a few examples of some uses and results we have seen personally…
Topically
Acne: Used in conjunction with Purification oil blend this oil can assist in pulling toxins from the skin to short the life of acne and heal skin irritation.
Insect bites: Fire ants and spider bites have been healed when used alone and in conjunction with Purification. The venom/bacteria is withdrawn from the bite area and/or is drawn to the initial bite site to be released. Continual use over a couple days alleviated itching and cleared the bite area.
Insect stings: So far a bee and wasp sting have been healed with this oil applied directly to the sting site. One instance when used with Purification several times over a couple hours a wasp sting was undetectable…we literally couldn’t find the sting site!
Toothache/gum pain: Thieves and Purification were applied directly on the site of inflamed and irritated gums behind the lower molar. Immediate relief was given as both oils have ingredients such as Clove that numb the area. Applying the oils nearly hourly the inflation cleared up within a day or two.
Scrapes: After a scooter accident the driver was left with minor scrapes on the knee and arm. The areas were lightly cleaned with Hydrogen Peroxide and immediately covered with Thieves and Purification and done so a few times over the next couple days. Though initially the application will sting the scrapes were able to heal quickly and without infection or need for any type of bandages. Continued healing is underway using Lavender and Gentle Baby.
Aromatic
Thieves has been used through diffusers and nasal inhalers for the following (and more not listed)
Allergies: Diffused or in an inhaler for allergic reactions, such as; sneezing, coughing or wheezing.
Illness: During illness diffuse around sick person to eliminate bacteria/molds surrounding the patient along with other remedies to boost the immune system. Inhaling the oil helps kill the infection internally as well.
Preventing spread of bacteria/illness: Diffuse during a party or if someone is ill in a living space with many people. It’s good for the sick person as well.
Relaxation: Can be calming for adults and babies
Respiratory illness: Helps with cough, wheezing, sneezing, etc.
Internally
Daily Health: A drop of oil in an immune boosting remedy or in a spoon full of Raw Organic Local Honey or Agave Nectar (aka Blue Agave) can greatly improve immune function and prevent or alleviate the symptoms of illness and allergies.
Illness: As part of a remedy taking a drop of Thieves along with Apple Cider Vinegar, Vitamin C (EmergenC or pure) in fresh juice or alkaline water helps shorten the life span of many common illnesses including the common cold.
Internal Use Tips:
Try these simple suggestions to incorporate Thieves in the body for extra protection.
• 2–3 drops of Thieves into a capsule and take daily
• 1–2 drops into a spoonful of Blue Agave/Agave Nectar or Raw Organic local Honey (helps build immunity to local pollens alleviating allergies)
• 1–2 drops onto a piece of bread or a cracker
• 1–2 drops to a glass of rice or almond milk
• 1–2 drops directly onto your tongue
Diffuse for aromatic, cleansing, and healing properties.
Cleaner: Thieves can be diluted and used as a safe household cleaner!
Ingredients of Thieves
Below meet the players in this knock out bacteria fighting team. As you will see, each ingredient is extremely beneficial even on their own.
Clove (Syzygium aromaticum)
Summary: clove oil, nature’s richest source of eugenol, is the highest-scoring single ingredient tested for its antioxidant capacity on the ORAC scale. Clove is also known for its immune-enhancing properties.
Botanical Family: Oleaceae
Plant Origin: Madagascar, Spice Islands, Molucca Islands, Indonesia, and Zanzibar
Extraction Method: Steam Distilled from flower bud, stem, and/or leaf.
Nutrients: Calcium, Iron, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, potassium, zinc, Vitamins A, B1, B2, and C.
ORAC: 1,078,700 uTE/100g (ground 290,283 uTE/100g still highest score!)
Historical Data: The people on the island of Ternate were free from epidemics until the 16th century, when Dutch conquerors destroyed the clove trees that flourished on the islands. Many of the islanders died from the epidemics that followed. Cloves were reputed to be part of the “Marseilles Vinegar” or “Four Thieves Vinegar” used by grave robbing bandits to protect themselves during the 15th century plague. Clove was listed on Hildegard’s Medicine, a compilation of early German medicines by highly regarded Benedictine herbalist Hildegard of Bingen (1098-1179). Courmont at al. demonstrated that a solution of .05% eugenol from clove oil was sufficient to kill the tuberculosis bacillus (Gattefosse, 1990).
Healers in China and India have used clove buds since ancient times as part of their treatments. Eugenol, clove’s principal constituent, was used in the dental industry for years to numb gums.
Medical Properties: Anti-aging, antitumoral, antimicrobal, antifungal, antiviral, analgesic/anesthetic, antioxidant, anticoagulant, anti-inflammatory, stomach protectant (ulcers), ant parasitic (worms), anticonvulsant.
Uses: Anti-aging, cardiovascular disease, arthritis/rheumatism, hepatitis, intestinal parasites/infections, for numbing all types of pain, throat/sinus/lung infection, cataracts, ulcers, lice, toothache, acne, bell’s palsy, chronic fatigue syndrome, herpes, food poisoning, periodontal disease (excluding root canal).
Fragrant Influences: A mental stimulant, encourages sleep, stimulates dreams.
Application: Dilute 1 part EO w/ 4 parts VO;
(1) Apply 2-4 drops on location, gums, or mouth.
(2) Vita-flex points
(3) Diffuse
(4) Take as dietary supplement
Caution: Anticoagulant properties enhance when combined with warfarin, aspirin, etc. Consult a health professional before giving clove to infants or children under the age of 6 as it can cause gastric upset or excitement. Clove oil is very strong and can cause irritation if used in pure form. Diluting it in water or another type of oil, such as olive oil, is recommended.
Lemon (Citrus limon)
Summary: With 68 percent d-limonene, lemon oil is a powerful antioxidant known for its ability to act as a natural solvent and cleanser.
Botanical Family: Rutaceae (citrus)
Plant Origin: California, Italy
Extraction Method: Cold pressed from rind. It takes 3,000 lemons to produce 1 kilo of oil.
ORAC: 660 uTE/100g (Juice, etc 1,200-1,500 uTE/100g)
Historical Data: Research by Jean Valnet, MD, showed that vaporized lemon oil can kill meningococcus bacteria in 15 minutes, typhoid bacilli in one hour, Staphylococcus aureus in two hours, and Pneumococcus bacteria within three hours. Even a 0.2% solution of lemon oil can kill diphtheria bacteria in 20 minutes and inactivate tuberculosis bacteria.
Lemon oil has been widely used in skin care to cleanse skin and reduce wrinkles and combat acne.
Lemon has shown to have antidepressant effects in research done by Komori, at al., 1995.
Medical Properties: Antitumoral, antiseptic, improves microcirculation, and immune stimulant (increases white blood cells), improves memory, relaxation. Rich in limonene, which has been extensively studied for its ability to combat tumor growth in over 50 clinical studies.
Uses: Circulatory problems, arteriosclerosis, obesity, parasites, urinary tract infections, varicose veins, anxiety, hypertension, digestive problems, acne
Fragrant Influences: Promotes clarity, boosts immune function, relaxation, ad-reduced depression.
Application: Dilute 1 part EO w/ 1 part VO;
(1) Apply 2-4 drops on location
(2) Vita-flex
(3) Directly inhale
(4) Diffuse
(5) Take as dietary supplement
Caution: Avoid applying to skin that will be exposed to sunlight or UV light within 24 hours.
Cinnamon Bark (Cinnamomum verum)
Summary: High in antioxidants, cinnamon bark has a reputation for relieving discomfort during the winter season and supporting the digestive system. Also known as, cassia.
Botanical Family: Lauraceae (laurel)
Plant Origin: Sri Lanka, Madagascar, Ceylon, India, West Indies, and Philippines.
Extraction Method: Steam distilled from bark.
Nutrients: Calcium, Chromium, copper, iodine, iron, manganese, phosphorus, potassium, zinc, vitamins A, B1, B2, B3, and C.
ORAC: 10,340 uTE/100g (ground 131,420 uTE/100g)
History: Listed in Dioscorides’ De Materia Medica (A.D. 78), Europe’s first authoritive guide to medicines, that became the standard of reference work for herbal treatments for over 1,700 years.
Cinnamon was reputed to be part of the “Marseilles Vinegar” or “Four Thieves Vinegar” used by grave-robbing bandits to protect themselves during the 15th century plague.
Medical Properties: Anti-inflammatory (Cox2 inhibitor), powerfully antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal, anticoagulant, circulatory stimulant, stomach protectant (ulcers), ant parasitic (worms), relieves diarrhea and nausea, congestion, enhances digestion especially in fat and sugar metabolism, diabetes, weight loss, yeast infection, fibroid and menstrual problems, liver cancer, and uterine hemorrhaging.
Uses: Cardiovascular disease, infections, diseases, viral infections (herpes, etc), digestive complaints, ulcers, and warts.
Application: Dilute 1 part EO w/ 4 part VO;
(1) Apply 1-2 drops on location
(2) Vita-flex
(3) Diffuse
(4) Take as dietary supplement
Caution: May irritate the nasal membranes if inhaled directly from diffuser or bottle. Do not use in large
amounts if pregnant. People with prostate problems should avoid cinnamon ingestion. Also allergies to Tolu or balsam should avoid exposure to cinnamon directly.
Bible References: Exodus 30:23, Proverbs 7:17, Song of Solomon 4:14 among other mentions of Cassia.
Eucalyptus Radiata
Summary: As one of the most versatile of the eucalyptus oils, eucalyptus radiata has many health-promoting properties. This powerful essential oil contains eucalyptol as one if its major elements, which in laboratory tests has been reported as being effective against bacteria in topical applications.
Botanical Family: Myrtaceae (myrtle)
Plant Origin: Australia
Extraction Method: Steam distilled from leaves
Medical Properties: Antibacterial, antiviral, expectorant, anti-inflammatory
Uses: Respiratory/sinus infections, viral infections, fights Herpes simplex when combined with bergamot
Application: Dilute 1 part EO w/ 1 part VO;
(1) Apply 2-4 drops on location
(2) Vita-flex
(3) Direct inhale
(4) Diffuse or put in humidifier
Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis CT cineol)
Botanical Family: Labiatae
Plant Origin: Tunisia, Morocco, Spain
Extraction Method: Steam distilled from leaves
Nutrients: Calcium, Iron, Magnesium, Maganese, phosphorus, potassium, zinc, vitamin B1, B3, and C.
ORAC: 330 uTE/100g (dried 165,280 uTE/100g)
Historical Data: Rosemary was part of the “Marseilles Vinegar” or “Four Thieves Vinegar” used by grave robbing bandits to protect themselves during the 15th century plague.
Since the time of ancient Greece (about 1,000 B.C.), rosemary was burned as incense. Later cultures believed that it warded off devils, a practice that eventually became adopted by the sick who then burned rosemary to protect against infection.
Hildegard’s Medicine, a compilation of early German medicines by highly regarded Benedictine herbalist Hildegard of Bingen (1098-1179).
Until recently, French hospitals used rosemary to disinfect the air.
Medical Properties: Liver-protecting, antitumoral, antifungal, antibacterial, ant parasitic, antioxidant, enhances mental clarity/concentration.
Uses: Infectious disease, liver conditions, hepatitis, throat/lung infections, hair loss, impaired memory/alzheimers, fights free radicals, inflammation, circulation (all including circulation to the brain), digestion, decongestant, astringent, detoxify liver, menstrual cramps, antiseptic gargle, Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), Yeast infection, eczema, rheumatic disorders, cancer, pains/strains, nervous disorders, etc. Also, used as a preservative for food particularly meats.
Fragrant Influences: Mental fatigue, clarity, focus, Miami scientists found that inhaling rosemary boosted alertness, eased anxiety, and amplified analytic and mental ability.
Application: Dilute 1 part EO w/ 1 part VO;
(1) Apply 2-4 drops on location
(2) Vita-flex
(3) Direct inhale
(4) Diffuse
(5) Take dietary supplement
Caution: Check with health professional before using on children under 4 years of age. Avoid using on person with high blood pressure in direct or high quantities. Avoid during pregnancy.
Thieves Products
Thieves Essential Oil: Used as stated above and in all other products noted below.
Thieves Foaming Hand Soap: Currently used in the restroom and kitchen for hand soap.
Thieves Bar Soap: Self-explanatory…but not used personally so far.
Thieves Household Cleaner: BEST CLEANER EVER! Used to clean pretty much everything. I use this as my multi-purpose cleaner. You can make several bottles with different strengths depending on use, such as cleaning windows versus heavy degreasing.
-Kitchen countertops, oven, floor, refrigerator
-Bathroom shower, toilet, mirror, counter/sink
-Laundry, Windows, Freshener for Upholstery
-Common Area plants, carpet, room deodorizer
Thieves Toothpaste: Three different kinds and they all make for great breath, clean feeling teeth, and when used with floss and mouthwash great dental hygiene! And NO FLUORIDE! Safe to swallow which is not true of almost all toothpastes!!
Thieves Mouthwash: Safe to swallow, great tasting, and healthier than alternatives.
Thieves Floss: Need to floss but don’t want fluoride? Here’s your answer.
Thieves Hand Sanitizer: Waterless, doesn’t feel greasy, smells amazing, and leaves your hands feel smooth and taken care of. A long time nurse discovered this and uses it all day on the job. She says even though she is required to use the sanitizer at the hospital the Thieves sanitizer helps keep her hands feeling smooth and hydrated like never before.
Thieves Lozenges: Soft and hard lozenges are available. We prefer the hard lozenge and use them for sore throats, during sickness, allergies, or even as breath mints!
Thieves Spray: A mini bottle of Thieves spray can act as your travel cleaner. Spray down a hotel, in front of a vent, or use anywhere at home.
Thieves Wipes: Convenient antibacterial wipes for any occasion.
